Mentoring

One of the most important parts of the McNair Program is the relationship between the Scholar and the faculty mentor. Our experience has shown that the most important variable explaining student success in the program and beyond is the relationship that the Scholar has with his/her faculty mentor. Mentors are generally expected to provide guidance as to the direction of the research project conducted by the Scholar as well as to make Scholars aware of opportunities provided by graduate school, especially doctoral programs.

In addition, mentors are instrumental in promoting the Scholar's sense of self-confidence and self-esteem, providing academic advising to enhance academic success, making students aware of resources which will aid in research on and off campus (including the use of bibliographic databases, data sources, research techniques, internet resources, etc.), and assisting students in strategizing on what to do to apply to graduate school (i.e. selection of appropriate program, how to apply, what to do).

The Mentor is expected to:

• enhance the Scholar's awareness of the opportunities and demands of graduate education;
• help the Scholar to build his or her motivation, self-confidence and self-esteem, as well as provide emotional support and encouragement;
• assist the Scholar in competing for and participating in the ten-week Summer Research Internship;
• help the Scholar improve his or her grade point average; and
• assist the Scholar in gaining admission into graduate school and successfully completing a doctorate.

Beyond developing a professional relationship, Scholar and mentor often develop a personal bond as well — in many cases this relationship lasts over many years. A good mentoring relationship not only promotes the academic success of the Scholar, but also has a long-term impact on his/her professional success. Without our faculty mentors, the McNair Program would not be the success that it is today.

For more information, please fill out the Information Request form.