One of the most integral parts of a successful student-mentor relationship is a willingness to guide, instruct, and aid students in their project goals. Beyond serving as a project supervisor, the mentor takes an active interest in the student’s academic and professional development as a scholar. The ideal mentor seeks to quickly establish a positive working relationship with the student to promote confidence, inquiry, focus, and discipline. Mentors should be aware of the student’s coursework, prior experience, and interests in order to set appropriate expectations for the student. At the same time, the mentor should challenge the student to think in novel ways and help the student gain new understanding of topics by suggesting reading material or practice.
The main responsibility of the mentor in guiding the student’s project for the UAB Expo would be to develop and maintain a working schedule by which the student will complete his work. Mentors should meet regularly with their students, addressing specific questions and encouraging the student in his work. Mentors are encouraged to review the final data/work the student will use in his presentation, and, if possible, help the student prepare presentation materials. Mentors should contact the Office for Undergraduate Research if any questions or concerns arise.