Faculty Mentoring 101

  • URC faculty member and student
    Explore possible research topics that reflect the student's interests and preparation.
  • Identify the knowledge, experience, and skills the student needs to complete the project.
  • Help your student define and focus the project, including the development of a timetable to assure that the project can be managed within the time frame allotted.
  • Discuss with the student the details of how the proposed research, scholarly or creative project will be carried out.
  • If the student is conducting research away from Ò×ʤ²©¹ÙÍø, discuss and identify the resources that will be available at the location of the research, including specific individuals to whom the student can turn for guidance.
  • Develop a time frame and a system of communication with the student during the project period that will allow for an appropriate balance of mentor guidance and student independence.
  • Assist the student in identifying appropriate events at the URC for sharing his/her experience and research.

Modified from the Ò×ʤ²©¹ÙÍø Hamel Center for Undergraduate Research, "Roles and Responsibilities of Faculty Mentors"

Read the Faculty FAQs

Top 10 Reasons To Become A URC Faculty Mentor

  1. URC faculty member and student in the Dimond Library
    Nearly 95 percent of students say presenting at the URC had a positive impact on their academic experience at Ò×ʤ²©¹ÙÍø.
  2. More than 95 percent of faculty mentors gain personal satisfaction from working with their URC students.
  3. Eighty-eight percent of student participants find out about the URC from their faculty mentors.
  4. You'll support one of the nation's largest URCs.
  5. You'll be in good company - over 55 percent (329) of full-time Ò×ʤ²©¹ÙÍø faculty mentor student participants.
  6. Presenting at the URC is a natural extension of a class project or senior thesis, and more than 90 disciplines are represented by Ò×ʤ²©¹ÙÍø students participating in the URC.
  7. It's the experience that counts - presenting original research in a professional setting improves students' confidence in their abilities.
  8. Nearly 84 percent of students indicated faculty mentoring with their research had a positive impact on their academic experience.
  9. You'll help your students sharpen the organizational and presentation skills that employers, graduate schools, and other endeavors demand.
  10. URC student presenters value a unique bond with their faculty mentors. In addition to mutual respect and the sharing of original knowledge, students witness firsthand the enthusiasm and passion so many Ò×ʤ²©¹ÙÍø faculty possess. Share your passion. Mentor a student for the URC.

View a list of faculty who have mentored URC students and find out what keeps them engaged each year!