Cultivating a strong and productive rapport with a faculty member is one of the most important steps toward a successful research experience. Finding the right mentor not only helps you shape your research project but also provides guidance, encouragement, and opportunities to grow as a scholar.
Your goal is to connect with a faculty member whose research interests align with your own passions and academic goals. A good mentor can help you:
- Identify and refine your research ideas.
- Navigate funding opportunities and resources.
- Gain access to networks, conferences, and professional communities.
- Build skills that will benefit you in graduate school and your career.
The Office of Student Research and Innovation (OSRI) is here to support you in this process. To make it easier, we’ve created a step-by-step guide sheet along with a sample email template you can use when reaching out to potential faculty mentors.
Whether you’re just getting started or ready to take your research to the next level, OSRI is committed to helping you find the right faculty partner to guide your journey.