Enriching Learning in PG County Schools with Maryland Mentor Corps

Presenter: Laiba Naseem, Public Health Practice, Global Public Health Scholars

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My practicum was with the Maryland Mentor Corps (MMC) at Beacon Heights Elementary School and Greenbelt Middle School in Prince George’s County Public Schools. I mentored 6th-grade and 4th-grade students in both academic subjects and instilled community values. In Fall 2024, I served as a mentor at Higher Achievement at Greenbelt Middle School, where I helped mentees with their homework and engaged in discussions designed to build character and prepare the students for future academic success. In Spring 2025, I served as a team leader for the Maryland Math Program at Beacon Heights Elementary School, where I guided a team of mentors on their tasks and responsibilities to provide the best support they could. Throughout my practicum, I developed strong leadership skills, especially when facilitating equity dialogues on issues in education and public health. I also developed my communication skills through constant communication with the mentors, students, and the co-team leader. I also gained a deeper appreciation for the impact of mentorship and the importance of creating a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to grow. This experience deepened my understanding of how quality education can contribute to overall health and well-being, especially in underfunded and underserved communities. In order to address these disparities, it is important to implement early intervention, equitable access to resources, and community engagement, all of which can positively influence health outcomes. Approaching these challenges with a public health background is important to create sustainable solutions that address the root causes of disparities.