Mentoring undergraduate students on research projects can be an enriching, rewarding experience for both students and faculty members.

Responsibilities of a faculty mentor:

• Prepare students for the particular work they are going to do through assigned readings and training
• Spend at least 1 hour per week working directly with your student
• Guide the student through the process of writing a research proposal
• Provide graduate school and fellowship information
• Participate in the annual Faculty Mentor Program Research Symposium

As a faculty mentor:

• You will design and supervise the project in conjunction with a student who is particularly interested in your field of research.
• You will work one on one with the student for 2 quarters
  • Note: Generally, the winter quarter is intended to develop the student's research skills and knowledge base in the area of your research. By spring quarter, the student is usually able to make a productive contribution to the mentor's project.

Choosing a student:

• You can choose to mentor a student you already work with or be assigned a student through the FMP screening program.
• If you choose a student, ask him or her to submit a student application, available at the program office, 411 University Center (map).
• If you do not designate a student, one will be assigned to you. Student applicants are carefully screened by the FMP coordinator and staff for laboratory experience, language, computer skills, course background, or other knowledge you specify.
• Once you interview the student, it is up to you to accept or reject his or her application to work on your project.
  • Note: It is extremely important that the student has already taken some coursework related to your project.

To apply:

• Complete the online application, describing your research, specific skills or background the student will need, the courses you currently teach, and other background information.

If you have questions, contact Veronica Henson-Phillips, Faculty Mentor Program Coordinator, (858) 534-5791.