Expectations of Mentors

Expectations for a mentoring relationship will vary by project, discipline, and how the undergraduate researcher is participating (for example, your role will look very different if a student is engaging in a senior thesis vs. a sophomore working as a research assistant vs. a student primarily being mentored by your graduate student). Overall, the goal is for the mentor and mentee to collectively accomplish a task with the mentor helping the mentee develop the necessary skills.

Common Expectations for Mentors

  • Explore possible research topics that reflect student’s interests and preparation.
  • Meet regularly with your mentee.
  • Identify the knowledge, skills, and experience the student needs to complete the project. The mentor may advise the student to enroll in appropriate courses or guide students in developing skills.
  • Work with the student to develop a timetable for the project and ensure that the time commitment is commensurate to their paid hours/credit load/volunteer time.
  • Submit any course grades or hiring paperwork.
  • Ensure the project has any necessary compliance oversight and student has received required ethical or research training.
  • Write letters of support if student is seeking funding.
  • Provide psychosocial mentoring to help students develop their confidence, communication abilities, and explore where they want to go in life.
  • Provide support and suggestions for discussions around the mentee’s career goals.
  • If the student will be working off the UM campus, ensure that they are set up with appropriate housing and travel options, and understand what resources are available on site, including specific individuals they can turn to for support and guidance.

Student-initiated Projects

In student-initiated projects, mentors take on additional responsibilities to support students in implementing high-quality research and scholarly projects.

  • Help the student define and focus the project.
  • Discuss with the student the details of how the proposed research or creative project will be carried out and the features of a good project proposal.
  • Review and critique the student’s research proposal (if one is needed). Although it is the responsibility of the student to write the proposal in its entirety, it is important that the faculty mentor review the proposal.
  • If the student intends to apply for funding (on or off campus), assist in the development of a budget and proposal.
  • Provide feedback on the final product of the project.
  • Assist the student in identifying appropriate forums for presenting and/or publishing their work. All UM students are encouraged to present their research and creative scholarship at the annual UM Conference on Undergraduate Research.