Mentor Experiences

“The FCVC SURF program offers a wonderful opportunity for undergraduates to have a summer research experience at the University of Michigan. In addition to learning some technical skills, the experience can help students assess whether this is something they want to pursue in their future careers.  My lab was delighted to participate in this program this Summer and felt very lucky to be matched with Micaela Yudelman, who quickly integrated into the lab and made valuable contributions to a project looking at a specific noncoding RNA that may be a therapeutic target in heart failure.”

Anthony Rosenzweig, Ph.D.

"In my own personal experience as a student, postdoctoral fellow, and now as an early-career faculty member, I have had amazing mentors who sat with me and discussed not just research ideas but also my career trajectory. They also showed me that a mentor’s responsibilities go beyond that of a supervisor. The students who come in through the FCVC SURF program to spend two months in the lab are highly motivated, willing to learn and driven - it is a pleasure to work with them and mentor them. They are also at a crucial stage in their life as they are at the verge of starting their actual careers. In our lab, we not only discuss just their summer projects and the necessary techniques, but also spend some time listening to their future aspirations and advise them as needed."

Juilee Rege, Ph.D.

"The research experiences that inspired my career as a physician-scientist began through a program very much like FCVC SURF. So it has been especially exciting for me to come “full circle” and have the opportunity to train the next generation of aspiring scientists."

Jordan Shavit, M.D., Ph.D.