The Office of Faculty Development

Inclusive Mentoring of STEM Students

Numerous studies have demonstrated that effective mentoring leads to positive outcomes, including the completion of a degree, increased self-efficacy, and student satisfaction with their educational experience. As with teaching, mentoring involves communicating information between individuals in a similar manner. Particularly, mentors facilitate the development of their mentees on a personal and professional level. As a mentor, you should take the time to ask questions and practice active listening so that you can gain a better understanding of your mentee. Throughout this process, you will discover that each mentee brings with them a unique set of values, perspectives, experiences, and interests that may or may not align with yours. There is mixed evidence regarding the importance of academic mentors and mentees having similar identities. It is, however, important for mentors and mentees to establish a relationship that transcends differences to ensure that all mentees have equal access to the benefits of mentoring. In addition, it is imperative that mentor/mentee teams meet regularly so that they can discuss their goals, progress, challenges, and future plans. The purpose of this teaching guide is to provide STEM mentors with resources that will enable them to become more inclusive in their mentoring practices.

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