Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences

Creating a Sense of Belonging: Resources for Research Faculty Mentors

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Developing a sense of belonging where graduate students feel accepted, valued, and included is a critical factor supporting their wellbeing and influences retention in academia. The topics and resources in this section cover more common situations and opportunities to promote mentees’ sense of belonging in graduate communities and academia

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Addressing Rudeness

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Rudeness can boost negative emotions and harm working relationships. Taking steps to avoid being rude and being able to respond to rudeness goes far to create a supportive and productive training environment.

Resources:

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Supporting Mentees with Self-Doubt

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Graduate school and research frequently creates conditions where students experience self-doubt that can limit productivity and quality. Sharing relatable experiences and affirming students’ strengths may help them find ways of getting through difficult times.

Resources:

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Support Mentee’s Career Aspirations

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Engage in discussions around research and career aspirations and work with students and trainees to develop their approach and skills to attain their goals.

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Support Development of Scientific Communication

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There is a connection between strength in scientific communication and career intention in science. Work with mentees to develop scientific speaking and writing skills of mentees.

Resources:

  • English Communication for Scientists: Educational modules produced by Scitable from Nature Education.
  • SCOARE Program: A workshop covering best practices and strategies for helping trainees develop their scientific speaking and writing skills. Offered once a year at BCM and through SCOARE (Scientific Communication Advances Research Excellence)
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Share Insights into Expectations, Values, and Culture

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Consider opportunities in one-on-one conversations to have discussions around your lab and research culture. Share knowledge about the campus environment, school and organization structure and operations, and academic expectations.

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Increase Your Awareness of The Potential Impact of Inequities On Student’s Experience

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Consider how racial, gender, or socioeconomic inequities may affect students’ access to learning and training experiences, and intentionally develop approaches to reduce potential inequities. 

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