Entering Mentoring

The Entering Mentoring approach provides mentors with an intellectual framework, an opportunity to experiment with various methods, and a forum in which to solve mentoring dilemmas with the help of their peers. The mentor-training process expands each mentor’s knowledge through secondhand exposure to the experiences of the entire group, enabling participants to engage with as many mentoring experiences as each of them would typically handle in a decade. This process in turn enhances their readiness to work with diverse mentees and anticipate new situations. After completing the training, mentors will have articulated their own approach to mentoring and have a toolbox of strategies to draw upon when confronted with mentoring challenges.

Effective May 20, 2024, all NSF grant applications require a mentoring plan for postdoctoral scholars and graduate students supported by the award. In addition, each postdoctoral scholar or graduate student who receives substantial NSF support must have an Individual Development Plan, updated annually, that maps educational goals, career exploration, and professional development.

Entering Mentoring sessions are open to all faculty, post-docs, and graduate students who currently work with at least one graduate or one undergraduate student in research, scholarship, and creative activities.