Posted
Several Lancaster Mennonite students are gaining valuable skills, mentorship, and real-world experience through their participation in the Attollo program, a two-year leadership and college access initiative designed to empower high school students to discover and pursue their God-given potential.
Derived from the Latin phrase meaning “to rise up,” Attollo provides students with opportunities for mentorship, SAT preparation, college visits, career exploration, and leadership development—all while building a strong, supportive community.
Building Skills, Confidence, and Community
This year’s LM junior Attollo participants—Elilta Kndshih, Feven Workalemahu, Kaleab Chaka, Araceli Reeves, Arlona Gashi, Ashley Rothwein, and Sophie Rothwein—have committed to an intensive schedule that began with early morning sessions from 5:00–7:30 a.m., three days a week for six weeks. During this onboarding experience “Attollo Recruit”, students focused on Attollo’s six core pillars, including accountability, sacrifice, and leadership, while also taking on the challenge of solving a Rubik’s Cube in under 90 seconds.
“Attollo has helped me realize that my actions affect not only me, but others around me,” shared Sophie Rothwein during a recent chapel presentation, reflecting on the program’s pillar of accountability and its connection to Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Students consistently point to the strong sense of community as one of the most meaningful aspects of the program. “It’s like a family,” said Feven Workalemahu. “I’ve been able to connect with new people and build relationships that will last.”
Exploring Future Pathways
Through specialized tracks, students are exploring potential career paths aligned with their interests.
- Elilta is participating in the Pre-Law Scholars program, where she has studied how laws impact daily life, explored the process of creating legislation, and shadowed professionals in a courthouse.
- Feven is engaged in the Code & Engineering program, gaining experience in coding, website design, robotics, and 3D printing, while exploring interests in chemical engineering and computer science.
- Arlona, Ashley, and Sophie are part of the A-Med Scholars program, participating in hands-on medical experiences such as visiting a mock hospital setting, exploring pediatrics, cardiology and radiology, and even examining a pig heart to better understand anatomy.
- Araceli is preparing for future opportunities in interior or fashion design while also balancing her passion for dance.
- Kaleab has explored engineering pathways, including civil engineering, and taken advantage of one-on-one college preparation sessions.
These experiences are complemented by LM’s job shadowing opportunities, including placements in fields such as law, pediatric medicine, and coding, helping students gain firsthand insight into potential careers.
College and Career Readiness
A key component of Attollo is preparing students for life after high school. Participants take part in college tours across the region and beyond, visiting schools such as the University of Pennsylvania, Ursinus College, Temple University, and others. These visits allow students to connect with admissions counselors, explore campuses, and envision their futures.
Students also receive ongoing support with SAT preparation, college applications, and professional development workshops led by guest speakers and industry professionals.
“Meeting new people and hearing from professionals has been really impactful,” said Elilta. “It’s helped me think more clearly about my future and the connections I want to build.”
Faith, Purpose, and Perseverance
Throughout the program, students are encouraged to reflect on their purpose and how their gifts can be used to serve others. Lancaster Mennonite’s partnership with Attollo aligns closely with the school’s mission to help students grow in faith and use their gifts to make a difference in the world.
During their chapel presentation, students shared how the program challenges them not only academically, but personally and spiritually. From memorizing daily affirmations like “I am more,” to breaking through wooden boards symbolizing obstacles during the program’s “Finish Strong” finale, students are reminded of their strength and potential.
Araceli reflected on the pillar of sacrifice, noting that success often requires giving up comfort and choosing perseverance. “It’s about the everyday choices to be kind, generous, and committed,” she shared, referencing Hebrews 13:16.
Looking Ahead
As these students continue their Attollo journey, they are preparing for upcoming experiences including additional college visits, job shadow days, and Lancaster Mennonite’s World Changer Week.
Through mentorship, hands-on learning, and a commitment to growth, these students are not only preparing for college and careers—they are learning what it means to rise up, lead with purpose, and make a lasting impact.
