PROFILES IN MENTORING

Scotty Crowe

Occupation: Actor
Years with YSF: Going on 3
Most Recent School: Head Mentor, View Park Prep
Favorite Movie: How about movie I’ve seen the most times? "Drop Dead Fred"
Favorite Book (or book recommendation): “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close” by Jonathan Safran Foer
Name of your favorite teacher growing up: Mrs. Gaither… one of the few who had a strict curriculum but encouraged as much creativity as possible.
Why do you mentor? Kids bring a certain sort of happiness into a room. There’s also a constant struggle between I’m-the-older-and-smarter-one-and-should-act-like-an-adult and I-think-you’re-hilarious-let’s-talk-about-music-and-cars-and-stuff… that pull between “am I a kid or am I an adult” is invigorating. And… I wish I had a program like this in 4th or 5th grade.
What was the last script you mentored? What was it about? “The Boy Who Changed His Ways” by Kaila. A misbehaving boy learns some important lessons at Hawaii High School. The story had drama, romance, singing, and several genius comedic setup-jokes.
Is there a moment that stands out to you in your experience as a mentor? One student at our Big Show said, “… because of YSF, I want to be a writer when I grow up.”
What would you tell others about YSF? It’s the coolest, most satisfying thing I’ve done since moving to Los Angeles. It’s the one hour each week where nothing matters but the people around you. And the kids are a trip!
How does YSF affect you, and how do you think it affects other mentors? It helps me feel like I have some sort of significance and positive impact on others. Living in Los Angeles isn’t always the easiest or most relaxing thing, but YSF really reminds us of the things that are truly important. The funny, smart, and sometimes heartbreaking stories we get from the young writers are inspiring.
What advice/trick of the trade would you offer other mentors? I think that if everyone walks into the classroom with an open heart, the group can really create a special experience. We’re the mentors and they’re the students, but there’s a unique opportunity to quietly swap roles and learn from each other.

PROFILES IN MENTORING

Scotty Crowe

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