Finding a mentor
Be proactive: Take the initiative in seeking out interactions with faculty members.
Find multiple mentors: Instead of trying to find one perfect match, select multiple mentors to increase the likelihood that they will receive the assistance and support they desire.
Have realistic expectations of your mentors: Student should identify what they need form an individual faculty member and explicitly ask for those things.
Don’t be invisible: Students need to understand the importance of being seen in their departments.
Take yourself seriously: Graduate students need to make the transition from thinking of themselves as bright students to seeking themselves as potential colleagues.
Be responsible: Students should show up for scheduled meetings on time and be prepared with an agenda of what they need to accomplish.
Show commitment to the profession: Students need to demonstrate that they are involved in their programs, courses and research.
Receive criticism in a professional manner: Students need to accept critiques of their work in a professional manner to be wiling to consider other points of view.
Let mentors know you are following their advice: Faculty want to know that the time they spend with students is being put to good use.
Contact us
