Scholars of Excellence

"Teaching and mentoring are the most fulfilling part of my job. In the classroom, I draw from experiential and transformative approaches that incorporate and build on student’s experiences and strengths. One of my goals is for students to leave my courses ready to apply the concepts and skills they learn during the class. In this manner, graduate students can better learn how theory, methods/research techniques and skills can transfer to real world settings. I recognize students’ contributions and lived experience. Regardless of title, we all have something to contribute. They are my colleagues in training.

Mentoring is about building relationships that may last well past graduation, being there without judgement while still giving timely and constructive feedback. It is about talking with, rather than at. I strive to create an environment of inclusivity, mutual respect, and collaboration in class as well as on our study research teams. Mentorship is about being present, providing guidance, having open communication, and engaging in active listening which are also essential to be an effective teacher."

"I aim to provide holistic mentorship in a safe environment that recognizes that students are the key stakeholders in their education. I see my role as a graduate student mentor to be inclusive of all aspects of their development and I commit to my students for the duration of their careers. As a first-generation college student, I recognize the challenges, outside of coursework, faced by students. As such, I aim to provide mentorship on their progress through the program and research, but also in navigating academia generally and becoming professional scholars. I leverage opportunities to provide mentorship, such as co-mentoring undergraduate students involved in research. At the core of my research is understanding that individuals have agency, and the role of support systems is respecting that agency and empowering individuals. This extends into my mentorship philosophy. How students define their success is important to me and I see my role as supporting them to reach their goals.

Likewise, I am flexible in my mentorship style to align to students’ needs. Some students prefer a structured approach and some students thrive with a more relaxed approach. To be able to provide this kind of mentorship requires an open and ongoing dialogue in a safe environment. My ultimate goal in graduate student mentorship is to not only help them develop the technical skills and substantive expertise to succeed as impactful researchers, but to empower them to be independent scholars who are able to advocate for themselves and take ownership of their success."