LAMP is a program of the National Science Foundation with the purpose of diversifying the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce by increasing the number of underrepresented minorities in STEM degrees. LSAMP programming includes advisement, bridge or early arrival programs, tutoring or supplemental instruction, peer mentoring, faculty mentoring, undergraduate research, and professional development. One emphasis of The Ohio LSAMP Alliance is to improve community college pathways to STEM degrees through collaborative faculty and peer mentoring programs between our four- and two-year institutions. Ohio State collaborates with Columbus State Community College.
In the faculty mentoring program, we match freshman and sophomore LSAMP Scholars with faculty mentors in their academic disciplines to learn more about their disciplines, professionalization, and undergraduate research. The commitment would be to maintain two interactions with the student each semester.
Ideally, a two-year commitment is preferred with the goal of sustaining a long-term productive relationship with the Scholar. However, we realize that (a) faculty may only be available to commit to one or both semesters in one year, (b) faculty may only be available to commit to one year, (c) scheduling conflicts may arise for both faculty mentors and Scholars, and (d) Scholars' interest may change. In addition, both faculty mentors and Scholars may determine that the initial match is not beneficial to sustaining a long-term productive relationship.
Interactions with Scholars might include, but are not limited to
- Meal at which the mentor describes his/her research or interests
- Tour of the faculty mentor's laboratory with explanations by graduate students of their projects
- Introduction to other faculty researchers and their laboratories
- Engagement in short hands-on activities, projects, or experiments
- Discussion of possible research projects and the research process
- Discussion of possible funding opportunities, university resources, study abroad opportunities, etc.
- Virtual meeting via Carmen Zoom to discuss any of the topics listed above and check in with the student about how their semester is going
If you have any questions or would like to participate please email Victoria Auger, Ohio State LSAMP Program Coordinator at auger.27@osu.edu with the following information:
- What term would you like to serve as a mentor?
- How many mentees are you capable of successfully mentoring? (1-4 mentees)
- Which institution would you like to serve as a mentor for? (Ohio State, Columbus State Community College or either)
Thank you for considering this invitation to participate in the LSAMP faculty mentoring program.