UROP Research Mentor Project Submission Portal: Submission #1072

Mentoring Philosophy Mentoring undergraduate research assistants is a rewarding opportunity to guide students as they transition from learners to knowledge creators. I approach mentoring as a collaborative relationship rooted in mutual respect, where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to grow.

Each student brings a unique background, set of strengths, and aspirations. I begin by learning what motivates them and what they hope to gain from the research experience. My goal is to help students develop confidence, ownership, and accountability by progressively increasing their independence and engagement with the research process.

I create an environment where inquiry is encouraged, mistakes are normalized, and reflection is part of learning. I emphasize that uncertainty is a natural part of research and that failure often provides the richest insights. I guide students in framing research questions, thinking critically about methods and data, and connecting their work to broader scholarly conversations.

While I provide structured guidance early on, I gradually shift responsibility to the student, allowing them to lead aspects of the project, solve problems, and make informed decisions. I also share my own experiences - successes and challenges alike - to model transparency, resilience, and lifelong learning.

Ultimately, I strive to foster intellectual curiosity, ethical research habits, and confidence in students’ abilities to contribute meaningfully to a scholarly community. I hope each student leaves the experience with sharpened critical thinking, a deeper understanding of research, and a sense of possibility for their future path.