Step 1: Search
How do you decide who to enter into a mentoring relationship with and how do you do it? In choosing a mentor, remember that mentoring is a multifaceted relationship. It involves a need for guidance for the mentee and the interest in and ability to provide such guidance on the part of the mentor.
Mentees
- What do you want to research?
- Do you have a faculty member in mind that you would like to mentor you?
- Do you have a clear definition of the support and help you think you need?
- Do you have the commitment to make an effort to enable the relationship to develop and function?
Resources
Mentor Search
Search For A Mentor
Step 2: Connect
Now that the mentoring relationship has been initiated, how do you make sure both your expectation and goals are aligned?
Mentees
- You and your mentor should formalize research timelines, plans of action, proposals and goals.
- You and your mentor should discuss each other’s roles, time commitment, communication style and method of supervision and oversight.
- Establish methods of clear communication to be maintained throughout the mentoring relationship in order to make sure timeline and goals are being met.
Resources
Step 3: Journey
You are now well on your way through your mentoring journey! Here are some tools and resources to make sure you stay on the path to a successful research mentoring experience.
Mentees
- Conduct research in an ethical and responsible manner expected of faculty members.
- Maintain progress and participation in the training program according to the established timeline and as discussed with your mentor.
- Schedule regular meetings with the mentor and follow through with communication and plans.
- Make any needed changes to your plan/proposal to work toward achieving your goals.
- Look for additional opportunities to grow your academic and professional network.
Resources
Step 4: Assess
Take a look back over your research experience as a mentor/mentee. Evaluate your mentor-trainee relationship, keeping in mind; the ultimate goal is the promotion and development of a productive, independent, and responsible researcher.
Mentees
- Were the research goals met? If not, why?
- Have you assessed your personal growth as a result of your participation in this relationship?
- How has this relationship impacted you personally and professionally?
- Will there be continued opportunities to remain in contact with the mentor?
- Would you recommend your mentor to other students wishing to participate in a research mentorship?
Resources
Step 5: Explore
How can you use your mentoring experiences for personal and professional development?
Mentees
- Are there opportunities to disseminate research findings (presentations, publications)?
- What guidance will you provide to your mentee to continue on their academic/career pathway?
- How can you work collaboratively with your mentor and/or other collaborators to grow research efforts and the STEM pipeline?
- What are your next steps on your academic/career pathway?
Poster presentation/opportunities to showcase or share your research outcome
Citing your work or apply for publication
Recognizing your support system
Additional funding support
Resources
