NCSSM Durham

Prospective Mentors

Program Overview

The Mentorship Program provides mentors the ability to train the next generation of young researchers. Our mentors provide students with an independent research project or integrate the student into a part of their ongoing research. They provide an experience that requires the application of knowledge and skills to address challenges in the world beyond the classroom.

Over 100 mentors from around the Triangle and beyond volunteer every year to welcome students into their work environment, share their passion for their field of study, and enjoy the unique energy and curiosity that high school students bring through the Durham Mentorship Program and in collaboration with the NCSSM instructional team.

Program Timelines

Mentor Enrollment and Matching Process

Complete the Mentor Enrollment Form for Mentorship (required each year)

Time Commitment

Mentor Expectations

Complete minor compliance process (required each year; institutional contacts listed below)
- - Instructions for compliance will be communicated to mentors starting in mid-April with required completion by May 31.
  - Compliance includes: 1) Annual Background Check 2) Protection of Minors Training
    - - REQUIRED for the primary mentor interacting with the student virtually or in person
      - ALSO REQUIRED for all additional mentors who will interact with the student without the primary mentor present (virtually or in person)

It is strongly recommended to have more than one mentor with compliance as a back-up mentor in case the primary mentor is unavailable

- - Virtual conference meetings with NCSSM student must be accessible for observation by NCSSM staff (instructions below)
  - For assistance, please contact your departments/institutional offices as well as any available Youth Protection representatives as needed
Make sure mentee is prepared for their start date
- Setup a virtual meeting to connect with mentor (Be sure the primary day-to-day mentor is included in this initial meeting if possible)
- Request students complete compliance forms, safety or other required training, obtaining an ID card, library access, etc.
Ensure a clear timeline and research project for active student participation

To be successful in the Mentorship Program and the course assignments, students will need an active role in a research project

- Project: Determine the ongoing or independent research project available for the student and their program timeline. Each mentor-mentee pair will be required to complete a mentor-mentee expectations agreement
- Role/Outcomes: Provide clarity to the student about their role in the project and the goals and specific outcomes of the project
- Resources: Share relevant primary literature/publications/etc. to develop students’ knowledge and skills to understand and later communicate the project
- Feedback: As part of NCSSM course assignments, students will communicate their research via a written proposal and via oral presentations (mentors are encouraged to provide feedback)

Resources for Mentors who are Matched with a Mentee

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