In order to live in connection with the people around us, we need to be connected to ourselves. But that isn’t always easy to do on our own. That’s where role models and mentor can come in. Often they are the ones who see more talent, character, and ability in us then we can ourselves. This month, we are hearing from Mario Gonzalez. His story shares how he found connection through a role model who influenced his life. As we focus on the people that have influenced your life, our challenge to you is to share what you admire about them and how they have impacted your life.
this story's theme:
my role model connections
06.
Hey! I’m Mario and I am currently a communications major in my sophomore year of college. A creative is who I am and I love photography, filmmaking, and documenting people and stories. Losing one of my parents at a young age has deeply impacted my life, but I have learned the importance of seeking help and mentorship. The relationships with people I look up to have made me who I am today!
meet
Mario Gonzalez
Option 1: Watch the entire video all the way through and have a conversation using these questions or ones that make sense for your students.
1. Start by asking, “Do you have anyone in your life that has made a big impact on you like Graham did for Mario?”
2. Think about all the outside activities you do away from school, which of those bring you the most connection? What would it take for you to invite someone to one of your activities?
3. Reflecting on Mario’s story, what do you think it was about Mario that allowed him to change his life so dramatically after losing his mom? And then again after the concussion?
Allow time for students to text or call someone they are thinking about at the moment.
downloadable discussion guide
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Have students brainstorm who their role models might be, choose one and write 3 characteristics on why they are their role model.
2. Have students find a picture of their role model and add the characteristics to it.
3. Share the picture and characteristics with the role model in some way- write a note, send a dm, post a picture, even if it is someone they do not know.
Connection Challenge
for more Discussion Questions & guidance :
