OAR² Graduate Research Affinity Group

The OAR² Graduate Research Affinity Group fosters collaboration and interdisciplinary connections among graduate students across various fields of study who come from diverse backgrounds. This group provides a supportive and safe environment for sharing research ideas, methodologies, and experiences. The goal is to make research more accessible and less intimidating. Each mentor is assigned 2-3 mentees. Through regular meetups mentors can offer guidance and support. Mentors and mentees are required to attend one workshop a quarter to help enhance their research skills and expand their academic networks. By creating a community of diverse scholars, we aim to inspire innovative research, diversify academia and encourage a culture of care and inquiry.

For more information contact: Dra. Sinaí Cota, sicota@ucsd.edu

For Mentors

As a mentor in The OAR² Graduate Research Affinity Group, you will have the chance to share your expertise and provide meaningful support to fellow graduate students. Mentoring enhances your leadership and communication skills while offering a rewarding way to give back to students from culturally diverse communities in academia. By guiding mentees through their research journey, you contribute to their success and strengthen your professional network.

Time Expectations (3-4 hours x quarter):

Meet with mentee group 1x per quarter
Attend a research/writing workshop 1x per quarter
Email mentees, zoom with mentees, check in on them

Benefits:

Leadership Development: Participating as a mentor enhances leadership and communication skills, enabling you to effectively guide and inspire your peers.

Networking and Collaboration: You can expand your professional network by connecting with fellow mentors and mentees, fostering potential collaborations and interdisciplinary relationships.

Enhanced Understanding of Diverse Perspectives: Engaging with peers will allow you to gain insights into different research areas and methodologies, enriching your own academic perspective.

Pay-It-Forward: Whether you had a positive experience or not in your research journey, you now have the unique opportunity to help shape someone else’s experience for the better. Contributing to the growth and success of others can also be deeply rewarding, providing you with a sense of purpose and accomplishment in your academic journey.

Great Resume Builder! We can serve as a reference for any future job or internship opportunity.

Mentor Application (graduate students with 3+ years):
Link:
https://forms.gle/em2AAiYi6j6EPRbt5

For Mentees

The OAR² Graduate Research affinity group offers graduate students the opportunity to receive guidance and support from experienced peers. Mentees gain valuable insights into research processes, academic writing, and professional development, all while building a strong network within their field. This program helps foster confidence and independence as students work towards their research goals.

Time Expectations (3-4 hours x quarter):

Meet with mentor group 1x per quarter
Attend a research/writing workshop 1x per quarter
Respond to mentor via email, zoom, etc.

Benefits:

Personalized Guidance: A graduate mentor offers tailored advice and support, helping students navigate their research projects and academic challenges more effectively.

Networking Opportunities: Mentors can connect students with valuable contacts in their field, including researchers, industry professionals, and potential collaborators, enhancing career prospects.

Skill Development: Mentorship provides opportunities for skill-building in areas such as research methodologies, data analysis, and academic writing, fostering overall professional growth.

Emotional Support: Having a mentor creates a supportive relationship that can help alleviate the stresses of graduate studies, providing encouragement and motivation during challenging times.

Mentee Application (graduate students in their 1st or 2nd year may apply):

Link:

https://forms.gle/rCXFYhVu4REMv4Jp8