PROFILES IN MENTORING

Elisa Morse

Occupation: Actor/Producer
Years with YSF: 2-3
Most Recent School: Van Nuys Elementary
Favorite Movie: Dog Day Afternoon
Favorite Book (or book recommendation): Bunny Bunny by Alan Zweibel
Name of your favorite teacher growing up: Joey Chavez
Why do you mentor? To give back by making a difference in kids' lives.
What was the last script you mentored? What was it about? A family that goes on a ride at Six Flags that is taken over by evil spiders and must somehow find their way out.
Is there a moment that stands out to you in your experience as a mentor? Having a boy with learning disabilities who was terrified of reading out loud (even speaking out loud) actually ask to read out loud at our last session because he had gained so much confidence over the semester!
What would you tell others about YSF? YSF exposes often underprivileged kids to the arts in schools where they may not have an arts curriculum, and most importantly, gives the kids a huge dose of self-confidence and self-worth.
How does YSF affect you, and how do you think it affects other mentors? I always find myself so inspired by the kids' creativity and growth as people! The tangible positive changes in the kids over such a short amount of time are remarkable, and it's definitely a happy moment to realize that we have all been a part of guiding them. And of course -- hearing all of the ideas the kids come up with is a great reminder to adults in the creative fields of what we are all inherently capable of.
What advice/trick of the trade would you offer other mentors? In my book, your priority should be to make the kids feel like rock stars! Encourage them, make them feel special, and be their biggest fan -- focus on that, and the story will fall into place.

PROFILES IN MENTORING

Elisa Morse

Join Email List