Lessons That Last: What Students Are Learning Through Hope Squad

In Hope Squads across the nation, students learn about the importance of connecting with others—and life lessons that last. Through exercises, activities, and real conversations, Hope Squad Members develop empathy, awareness, and confidence to make a difference in their schools and communities, both now and in the future.

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We asked Members to share one of the most impactful things they’ve learned through their involvement in Hope Squad and here's what they had to say:

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Learning to listen and care

There is a stark difference between hearing someone speak versus listening to what is truly being said. Listening is a skill that must be developed. Many Hope Squad Members cite this as one of the most powerful takeaways of the program.

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“One of the most impactful things I’ve learned from Hope Squad lessons is the importance of being an active listener. Simply being present and listening without judgment can make a huge difference in someone’s life. I’ve learned I don’t have to have all the answers—I just have to care enough to listen.”  — Anika Sharma, TX

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Anika’s experience reflects a common lesson among Members: Supporting someone doesn’t always mean having all the answers; it can simply mean showing up, listening, and letting someone know they are not alone.

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Ava echoes this sentiment:

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“Hope Squad has taught me that my response to people's struggles does not have to be perfect, it just has to be human. Being genuine with my answers and genuine with my compassion is the most important thing. I’ve learned that I do not have to be the perfect "therapist" who knows all the answers--I just have to be a friend.” — Ava Zagata, MI

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Hope Squad helps students put empathy into action, creating communities where everyone feels seen, valued, and heard.

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Learning to speak up and reach out

Supporting others sometimes means asking hard questions, especially when it comes to conversations about suicide. Through Hope Squad’s programming, many students say that they have developed courage that allows them to speak up and reach out to others in need.  

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“One of the most impactful things I have learned from Hope Squad lessons is not to be afraid to ask difficult questions, especially when someone may be considering suicide. Being willing to speak up helps break the stigma around mental health.” — Navina Devarajan, UT  

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“It can be challenging to muster the confidence to reach out and make referrals in situations where a peer is considering suicide, but as my advisor tells us, “An angry friend is better than a dead one.” This phrase definitely helped me when I had to make some tough decisions.”  — Anuva Kaura, TX

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This courage empowers Members to support others through hard times,  and italso translates into other areas of their lives:

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“I've learned to take initiative. The ability to confidently engage in personal, vulnerable conversations with others has the largest impact on those in crisis, and Hope Squad has trained me to act promptly in the interest of others. This skill proves valuable beyond the world of suicide prevention and has helped me to grow as a leader who isn't afraid of failure or risk taking.” — Grant Bomersbach, TX

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Learning to care for yourself

While Hope Squad focuses on empowering students to help others, it also teaches the importance of caring for yourself. Similarly, the safety presentation on every flight informs all passengers that you should put on your mask first and then you can help someone else—it’s the same for Hope Squad. Self-care is a core part of programming at all levels, as Members learn that empathy must be balanced with self-awareness and healthy boundaries.

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“Hope Squad curriculum does a great job of teaching us the value of self-care. I have learned that self-care is not selfish! Setting boundaries and making sure you feel okay is extremely important, especially when avoiding burnout.” — Kallie Sage, FL

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Members learn that taking care of your mental and emotional well-being isn’t an extra—it's essential. When students feel supported and their cup is full, then they are able to extend that same quality care to others.  

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“Hope Squad has helped me learn how to manage my stress. Being in Hope Squad has taught me not only how to help other people but also how to help myself!” — Kambry Merrill, OK

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Hope Squad helps students see that boundaries and self-care are essential to leadership. Supporting others begins with learning how to support yourself—and that’s a lesson that will benefit far beyond their time as a Hope Squad Member.  

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Why these lessons matter

Through guided lessons and open discussion, Hope Squad helps students practice these skills until they become second nature. These lessons Members learn—listening with empathy, speaking with courage, and caring for themselves and others—become part of who they are, and they shape how Members show up in relationships, communities, and careers for the rest of their lives.

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By investing in students’ emotional well-being and leadership today, Hope Squad is helping shape a generation that leads with compassion, connection, and courage, which are lessons that truly last a lifetime.