At first glance obvious choices are Abra and Smeargle as they personify focus to development in growth similar to humans in theory, practice and understanding self-reflection. This is similar in many aspects to disciplined humanshape mons like Tyrogue and Machop.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpAXPF__UfY
Of course either of them would be life term.
However for a more unconventional alternative, a smart companion as a guide to the area route like a Hoothoot or Shiny Zubat hung on your back head. You can’t go wrong with who you like on your journey, unless you don’t discover anything new and stay fixed.
My result would be something like this