Undergraduate Research
Virtual Visit Request info Apply
MENUMENU
  • How to get started
    • Future student researchers
    • Getting started in undergraduate research
  • Opportunities and resources
    • Current student researchers
    • Research awards and funding
    • Undergraduate publishing opportunities
    • Presenting your research
    • Programs and organizations
    • Leadership opportunities
    • More resources
  • Faculty
    • Faculty mentors
    • Getting started as a mentor
    • Find student researchers
    • Mentoring strategies
    • Faculty mentor support
  • Expo and Symposium
    • Undergraduate Expo and Symposium information
    • Student information
    • Faculty and staff information
    • Reviewer and visitor information
  • News
  • Important dates and events
  • About
    • Vision, mission, and goals
    • Facts and figures
    • Meet our team
    • Schedule a meeting

Mentoring strategies

  • NAU
  • Undergraduate Research
  • Mentoring strategies

Read More on Student Perspectives

Read the entire article published about students' perspectives on effective mentors.

Effective Strategies for Mentoring Undergraduates

According to students, the 5 most effective strategies for mentoring undergraduates are:

1.  Make Yourself Available

  • Build rapport
  • Be available to answer questions
  • Let conversations generate excitement that support learning and retention
2.  Foster Community
  • Provide a support system where participation is encouraged and everyone is accountable
  • Include undergraduates in team meetings
  • Supplement the experience with one-on-one meetings
3.  Be Attentive
  • Maintain continuous communication
  • Set goals and deadlines
4.  Encourage Participation in the Broader Research Community
  • Suggest conferences and summer research opportunities
  • Help develop a research poster to present
5.  Be Understanding
  • Provide constructive feedback and value perseverance
  • Have realistic expectations for undergraduates
Pita, M., Ramirez, C., Joacin, N., Prentice, S., & Clarke, C.  (Spring 2013).  Five Effective Strategies for Mentoring Undergraduates: Students’ Perspectives.  CUR Quarterly.  33(3), 11-14.

Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity
Location
Room 439 Building 60
Student and Academic Services
610 South Knoles Drive
Flagstaff, AZ 86011-5801
Mailing Address
PO Box 5801
Flagstaff, AZ 86011-5801
Contact Form
Email
ug-research@nau.edu
Phone
928-523-5569
Social Media
Visit us on Twitter Facebook Instagram