Sister-to-Sister
A national program inspired by the American Association of University Women, Sister-to-Sister works to develop strategies that support young women.
Sister-to-Sister brings together middle school girls from Bristol, Middlebury, and Vergennes with Middlebury College student mentors.
With the help of campus supervisors, mentors develop experiences that encourage girls to try new things outside of the classroom including such activities as art, music, dance, sign language, and yoga. Sister-to-Sister also focuses on discussions of such topics as body image, women in history, relationships, popularity, self-defense, identity and the internet, and self confidence.
Program Overview
The program starts with a day-long Sister Summit in November to inspire young women. After the summit, middle school girls are invited to monthly events such as swimming, sledding, and movie nights at Middlebury College in a group setting. In these monthly meetings, girls will have the opportunity to discuss issues specific to their age group and challenges associated with middle school.
While specific activities vary, the foundation of the program continues to be about building trusting and supportive relationships. These experiences, both formal and informal, address not only the challenges facing young women, but also discovering and celebrating strengths, interests and achievements. Sister-to-Sister is an opportunity for area middle school girls to talk about self-esteem, their own identity, body image, peer pressure, and future aspirations with Middlebury College mentors.