Mentorship

The outcomes of working in a research lab often result in tangible skills and experience to list on a person’s resume. A lesser-known benefit to research experience is the mentorship process that takes place between the faculty researcher and the students in the research lab. Sometimes more senior students can even provide mentorship to students who are newer in the research lab. Mentorship can be valuable in creating new opportunities for students, helping students with job applications or graduate school application materials, and guiding students on their paths to future careers. For example, students can ask their professor if they are willing to provide feedback on their resumes/CVs, personal statement essays, etc. For most opportunities, applicants need references or letters of recommendation. When faculty members get to know students over a period of time as student researchers, professors are often able to provide supportive recommendations for that student that speak to the student’s skills and personal qualities (e.g., responsible, professional, critical thinker, team player, etc.).