The First Steps.

11.04.2021

Finding a mentor is the first step of the McNair journey. When I decided to apply for the McNair program, I was severely underprepared. My initial conversations revolved around the program itself and what was required of me. I had an idea that I needed a mentor, but I did not realize how important that piece was.

Finding a mentor who provides support, communication, and resources that you need is a time-consuming process. It takes building a relationship and starting conversations about yourself and your research. To find a mentor, you must begin the conversation; a mentor is not going to come to you. You must have an understanding of your research. You must able be able to share that idea with the individuals you are pursuing.

The first thing I had to do was think about my current and previous experiences with professors.

Being a transfer student in the middle of a hybrid semester made the mentor search difficult. I had to begin to build those relationships before asking anyone to meet with me about potentially being my mentor. I had a professor, who taught two of my virtual communication classes, and I felt an urge to work with her. I watched how she ran classes, communicated with myself and other students, and researched her prior experience. She checked all my boxes; I knew I wanted to work with her.

Compared to my peers, I felt behind.

During every class period, we would all share aspects of our journey with each other. We shared frustrations, successes, and many spoke about their mentors. A few other students began the semester with a mentor, a research topic, and a solid understanding of what their year was going to be. I had no idea what I had gotten myself into, and I felt unprepared.

Even though I felt behind, I found my peers were feeling similarly. They have been my biggest supporters and have increased my confidence in my ability to be successful. Finding people, who understand first-hand what you are going through, is a validating experience. It is crucial to find these people in your life.

As weeks passed, I made progress.

I started by having meetings with the McNair program coordinators. I asked for suggestions, developed a research topic, and began tailoring my search for a mentor around my research. I knew I wanted a mentor who would have regular meetings with me. I wanted to work with someone in a similar field, an individual who would have another perspective to build on my own.

Diversity is a crucial piece of my research. Having a mentor who has that in mind was a necessity for me. I found aspects of a mentor that I wanted, and I based my search and meetings around those aspects.

Finally, I felt confident asking my professor to be my mentor.

I had scheduled a few phone meetings with her to talk about a variety of things. We got to know one another on a personal and professional level. She asked questions about my journey thus far, my research, and what my intention was. Once I felt as though we were in a stable position, I popped the question. When it comes to this aspect, the advice that I have is don't rush it. Ask when it feels right and when you are sure of the answer you'll be receiving.

When having the initial conversations to build a professional relationship, you will get a sense of their interest. They will ask questions of your research. They will mention if they enjoy working with you in a professional setting. Topics will occur during those conversations that will give a good sense of where they stand.

If you are unsure, still ask. The worst they can is you get a no, and more than likely, that person will refer you to someone who may be interested. Don't take this personally. Most often, the individual already has responsibilities and wouldn't have the time to dedicate to your project. By not being your mentor, they may be doing you a favor.

Even though I had only pursued one person, I would suggest having a list of people that fit your criteria. I should have developed relationships and had conversations with multiple individuals. I had a good idea that she was interested. However, if I had been wrong, I would have lost multiple weeks in finding a mentor.

That step is complete for me, and it has decreased my worry about completing my research. However, I still have days where I feel like I don't know what I'm doing. Now, I have the relationships and the support to continue my path.

I share how I'm feeling, I ask questions, and I still make mistakes. I know I'm learning, and it's okay.

We're all still in the beginning stages. We are sharing our personal experiences and growing together as a group. We help one another on our blogs, coordinate coffee study dates, and have a conference in March to anticipate.

Having people who support your journey is the most crucial aspect of being successful. Surround yourself with people who want the best for you. If you are or have ever pursued a voyage of this magnitude, I am so proud of you. It isn't easy, but it is worth it.