UROP Research Mentor Project Submission Portal: Submission #917

Mentoring Philosophy My mentoring philosophy is closely aligned with my teaching philosophy, guided by the "Why, How, What" framework introduced by Simon Sinek. This approach helps me reflect deeply on my mentoring goals and practices.

Why I Mentor:
I mentor because I believe in the profound responsibility of scholars to pass on knowledge and foster the next generation of thinkers. Just as in teaching, mentoring is about guiding mentees to acquire critical thinking tools and empowering them to make meaningful contributions to their fields. I aim to inspire my mentees to explore what kind of life is worth living and to ignite their passion for lifelong learning. Mentorship provides an opportunity to nurture curiosity, protect it from being diminished, and help mentees navigate their professional and personal growth.

How I Mentor:
My mentoring approach mirrors my teaching methods. I strive to create an environment where mentees are both supported and challenged. I encourage active learning by prompting mentees to engage in self-directed exploration before our discussions, similar to how I prepare students for class. I believe in creating a space where mentees can articulate their ideas, reflect on feedback, and refine their perspectives.

What I Mentor:
I focus on teaching mentees how to learn and think critically, equipping them with the skills to become independent researchers and thinkers. My goal is to help mentees identify their "why," develop their "how," and refine their "what" in their academic and professional journeys.