For 60 years, the Roger Lehecka Double Discovery Center has been changing the lives of high schoolers across New York City. Through year-round mentoring and academic enrichment courses, DDC has made college a reality for thousands of first-generation students — some of whom have gone on to become Lions themselves.

But Camylin Blake CC’26 (she/her) knows firsthand that DDC doesn’t just help the students who take part in the program. A volunteer since 2023, she says that mentoring and tutoring have shaped how she views her College experience.

“I feel like I’ve been able to grow as a leader, especially in times of trial,” Blake says.

A neuroscience and behavior major from Long Island, Blake has translated that leadership ability to other parts of her life, including as a captain of the track and field team. And, she says, the connections she’s built with DDC students have had an impact that will last a lifetime.

“My first summer, I was with 10th-graders who are now in their first year of college,” she says. “Some of them have reached out to me to let me know how they’re doing and to share their decisions. Seeing [the change from] how shy they were that first summer to now, actually being in college, is very rewarding.”

Blake emphasized that DDC is looking for volunteers; students interested in becoming tutors and mentors can find more information on the center’s website.

How did you first connect with the Double Discovery Center?

I heard about DDC during the Spring semester of my first year. I went to the Center for Career Education looking for a summer job on campus, and I asked if there were any opportunities for mentorship where I could work with high school students. I have older sisters, and one of them had done a similar program when she was in high school. I remember that being a great experience for her, so I was curious if Columbia had something like that.

What positions have you held at DDC since you started?

During my sophomore and junior years, I worked at Saturday Academy during the school year and then at Summer Academy. This year I’m heading up the student volunteer program, so I work with our tutors and mentors and pair them with students.

What’s been the most rewarding experience for you so far?

Connecting with students that first summer was really rewarding. I saw how much they looked up to me and the impact I could have. Some of them wrote to me and I realized that some of the smallest things I did had made such a difference. And they had an impact on me, too. That really changed my outlook on college and what my Columbia degree could mean, and also taught me what it means to truly be a mentor.

How have you grown from your DDC experience?

I think the first year at Columbia can have its adversities depending on where you’re coming from and what your background is, and how fast-paced life here can be. When I started interacting with the students, it allowed me to give myself grace and realize how much potential I have. I saw my high school self in a lot of them and in their goals and aspirations, and I realized that I am everywhere that my younger self would want me to be. That sense of gratitude and recognition is something that the students have given me, along with lots of laughs and great memories.

What’s been your favorite class?

Contemporary Civilization with David Ragazzoni GSAS’22. I really enjoyed the coursework and the conversations we had were quite wonderful, even at 8:10 in the morning.

What’s your favorite restaurant in the city?

Uncle Lou; it’s in Chinatown. It’s always bustling. I’ve been there with friends and on my own — it’s Cantonese cuisine done in the best way.

How have you taken advantage of being in NYC?

I’ve picked up photography a bit, so I enjoy exploring the city. Just hopping on the subway and going somewhere with my camera is one of my favorite pastimes. I also enjoy finding new cafes and places off campus to study — just those quiet places in the busiest city. It’s been really gratifying, and the accessibility of New York City has been a lot of fun.