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NC Youth Institute

Research Mentors

Consider mentoring a high school youth in their research and writing process and invite them to see themselves in research!

The Research Mentor Program connects NC Youth Institute participants with NC State graduate students, staff, and industry partners who help youth strengthen their research, writing, communication skills, and understanding of agricultural and STEM careers. Mentors serve as encouraging role models and help students see themselves as future college students, researchers, and professionals.

Research mentors will receive training and ongoing support throughout the program. Each mentor will work with a small group of high school students (3-5) through virtual mentoring sessions and will help connect students with the people, research, and resources available at NC State.

Register to be a mentor today!

Mentor Responsibilities

  • Participate in an orientation and mentor training (over a lunch meeting!).
  • Attend five virtual mentoring sessions this fall (Dates below).
  • Provide constructive feedback on students’ research questions, papers, presentations, or posters.
  • Help students identify credible sources and strengthen their research and communication skills.
  • Share information about college, graduate school, research, and agricultural or STEM careers.
  • Maintain regular and professional communication with students and program staff.
  • Help coordinate or support a two-hour laboratory, field, or research shadowing experience for participating students on April 15th, 2027 (as your schedule permits)
  • Participate in the North Carolina Youth Institute at NC State April 2027 (as scheduling permits).
  • Follow all NC State youth protection, confidentiality, and program participation requirements.

Fall Research Cohort- Register to be a mentor by September 15th

Welcome Luncheon for Graduate Student Mentors: September 16th

Tuesday, September 22nd 6pm-7pm, Zoom Meeting

Tuesday, October 13th 6pm-7pm, Zoom Meeting

Tuesday, November 3rd 6pm-7pm, Zoom Meeting

Tuesday, November 17th 6pm-7pm, Zoom Meeting

Tuesday, December 1st (Optional) 6pm-7pm, Zoom Meeting

Papers Due for students: Friday, December 4th

For more information, please contact [email protected]