Service Learning

I'm both nervous and excited for mentoring a 6th grade student. I hope I can help them and have a positive influence on them, but I worry about connecting with them. I want them to like me and respect me. I also want to know that I'm giving the best advice I can.
I haven't been a part of many service projects. I volunteered at my local humane society because I have a weakness for animals, and I've done things over the years for Beta Club. I participated in operation christmas child, helped out at nearby elementary schools, made blankets for a pediatric hospital, and donated a few things.
This weekend, a little boy I used to babysit came to my door. He was selling popcorn with cub scouts, and we bought some. His parents were there and we started talking about their daughter. She's going into the sixth grade this year, and they talked about how different it will be. Lockers, gym class, no recess, etc. I was really excited to tell them, hey I'm going to mentor a 6th grader this year! It felt like I was going to be doing something really helpful. Yay!