What Helped Me Succeed as an International Student? A Mentor Who Believed in Me

Meet Antonia Cuellar Urrutia: International Student and Mentor at St. John’s University

From Finding Belonging to Becoming a Mentor

In this candid Q&A, Antonia shares how getting involved in mentorship at St. John’s helped her navigate the highs and lows of international student life, giving her a place to feel seen, heard, and truly at home—even when she was far from it. 

What was your experience like starting college as an international student in the US? 

Coming from so far away, I was met with cultural shifts, unfamiliar accents, and the challenge of attending classes entirely in English after a lifetime of studying in Spanish. I didn’t expect it to be as hard as it was. 

What made it truly meaningful was knowing I had made this leap with the support of my parents, who believed in me enough to let me follow my dreams across the world. That trust and freedom shaped who I am today. Looking back, I can say with certainty: it was the beginning of the greatest adventure of my life. 

How did mentorship help you adjust to college life? 

The R.I.S.E. Network [Reach, Inspire, Succeed, and Empower] mentorship program was like a lighthouse in the middle of a storm—it gave me direction when everything felt unfamiliar. From the moment I arrived on campus, they welcomed me with warmth, comfort, and a sense of belonging. 

Through workshops, social events, and everyday support, they helped me meet people who understood me—and others who helped expand my worldview. When I felt lost, they were there, ready to answer a million questions, explain something twice (or 10 times), and remind me that I did belong here. That kind of support made all the difference in my first year, and still does. 

How does having a college mentor encourage you to get involved on campus? 

Having a mentor changed everything. Gabbi, my first-year mentor, was truly my anchor. She taught me how to navigate campus life, stay on top of my classes, and even understand things like the New York City Transit system. More than that, she believed in me before I fully believed in myself. 

Thanks to her encouragement, I joined clubs, made friends, and found spaces where I felt seen and valued. She gave me the courage to stop watching life from the sidelines and start showing up; fully and fearlessly. 

What inspired you to become a mentor yourself? And how has it helped you grow?  

I became a mentor because I wanted to be that person for someone else. I know what it feels like to enter a new world without a map or a familiar face. And, I also know how powerful it is to have someone say, “I’ve been where you are, and I’ve got you.” 

Mentoring others has taught me to lead with empathy, listen deeply, and serve with love. It showed me that leadership isn’t about having all the answers but walking alongside others as they find theirs. Through mentoring, I discovered a passion for service that will guide me throughout my life. 

What’s one of your favorite memories as a mentor?  

Watching my mentee, Ava Wilson, get the lead in the fall musical with the St. John’s Chappell Players. I remember introducing her to the theater and seeing her shine on stage for the first time. But what made me even prouder? Watching her later become student body president.  

Witnessing her transformation, from a shy first-year student to a confident campus leader, was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. Moments like that remind me why mentorship matters.  

What life lessons have you learned that you’ll carry into your future career? 

I’ve learned that the smallest acts of support can have a significant impact. Everyone deserves a place at the table; sometimes, all it takes is one person who believes in you to change your entire story. 

Mentorship taught me the power of community, compassion, and collaboration. As I move into the next chapter of my life, those lessons will be at the heart of everything I do. 

Did being part of a mentorship program influence your career goals after graduation? 

Absolutely. My experiences in the mentorship program have directly shaped my capstone research for the Ozanam Scholars Program, where I focus on how mentorship (or the lack of it) affects the health outcomes of underserved communities. 

As I prepare for medical school, I know that my future won’t just involve science and medicine; it will be grounded in advocacy, equity, and education. I want to be the kind of doctor who listens, uplifts, and creates access. The mentorship experiences I’ve had are the reason I’m on this path. 

What advice would you give to other international students starting college in a new country? 

Take a leap. Be bold. Be open to discomfort, because growth lives there. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, especially in a new place, but your journey is yours alone, and that’s a beautiful thing. 

Don’t rush. Don’t hide, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Explore, make mistakes, try new things, and believe in yourself, even when it’s hard. You’re not just here to study. You’re here to live, grow, and discover everything you’re capable of. Trust the process and enjoy the ride. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why is mentorship important in college? 
Mentorship fosters personal growth, academic success, and a stronger sense of belonging, especially for students who may feel isolated or overwhelmed. 

What are the benefits of mentorship for international students in college? 
Mentorship provides support, cultural guidance, and emotional encouragement, and helps international students build confidence and community in unfamiliar academic settings. 

How does mentorship help international students adapt to life in the US? 
Mentorship offers practical help with navigating campus life, understanding cultural norms, and adjusting to academic expectations, which eases the transition into a new country. 

How can I get involved in mentorship programs at St. John’s University? 
St. John’s University offers mentorship through programs like R.I.S.E., which support first-year and international students. Students can join as mentees and later become mentors themselves.