SLOAN Scholarship
Mentoring Model
Multi-Dimensional Mentoring Model
The goal of the new multi-dimensional mentoring (MDM) model from the University Center of Exemplary Mentoring (UCEM) program is to ensure that each Sloan scholar has a support system throughout their PhD program, and beyond, by enlisting mentors with different levels of seniority, backgrounds, and professional experiences. By doing so, the MDM will help to mitigate a sense of academic isolation that may be experienced by minority students while providing scholars with positive role models and guidance on how to succeed throughout their graduate program. Scholars must finalize their four mentor selections (see below for description) by year one (May-June) of their participation in the UCEM
I. Description of Mentoring Model
a) Research mentor (RM) – primary faculty mentor that will guide the Sloan scholar in their research program. Scholars will be matched research mentor prior to the start-up of their doctoral program. In person contacts (at least once bi-weekly) including research group meetings are highly encouraged.
b) Mentor external to the discipline (MED)/Role Model Mentor – faculty mentor outside of the scholar’s discipline that will support his/her professional development and well-being. Mentoring contacts may be virtual, both in-person meetings (at least once per semester) are encouraged.
c) Peer mentor (PM)/Accountability Partner (AP)_- an advanced graduate student within the same department or research area who can share “lessons learned” during critical transitional points (e.g., first year, preparing for candidacy, and dissertation stage) for scholars. Mentoring contacts may be both in-person and virtual.
d) Alumni trainee mentor (ATM) - USF Sloan alumni and/or other graduates in the workplace who can provide guidance on PhD expectations, professional networking, and career development. Mentoring contacts may be virtual.
The MDM (see figure below) is overseen by the UCEM Leadership within each college (Engineering, Arts & Sciences, and Marine Science) where scholars and affiliates are enrolled.
| Mentor | Matching Process / Assignment Timeline | Expected Contacts |
|---|---|---|
| Research (RM) | Based upon alignment of research interests during recruitment process. Prior to start-up of the doctoral program | At least weekly |
|
Peer (PM) Accountability Partner |
Scholars identify peer mentors from their research groups, during interactions in UCEM activities and involvement in student organizations. No later than the end of the second semester of doctoral program | At least twice per semester |
| External (MED) | Scholars identify peer mentors from their research groups, during interactions in UCEM activities and involvement in student organizations. No later than the end of the second semester of doctoral program | At least once per month |
| Alumni (ATM) | Based upon alignment of career goals, background, and academic program | Once per semester |