The challenge: Increase the diversity of the workforce.
How can you have an impact? Be a mentor! The Environmentors and Upward Bound programs are in need of mentors to assist local high school students in the process of research and support them as they consider a future college experience. We need to have two mentors for each of this year's group of 10 enthusiastic and bright students.
Mentor expectations: We value your time. Each mentor/mentee relationship is unique. The projects involve regular communication and the development of relationships between the mentor and the student. Weekly 30 to 60 minute face-to-face meetings are a starting point.
Role of mentor: Your role is to assist the student in the process of research; provide constructive, supportive, and timely feedback as a model for personal professional interactions.
You are not alone: Staff from the UNL Upward Bound program and the Environmental Studies program provide educational and logistical support for your mentoring activities.
Background: For the past seven years, the Environmental Studies Program and the Upward Bound (UB) program at UNL have provided opportunities for racially diverse and socially economically challenged high school students from Lincoln to conduct an authentic research project on an environment or natural resources related question, issue, or topic about which they are interested and passionate. This research program is part of a national network called Environmentors (E) that is sponsored by the National Council for Science and the Environment.
For more information: Contact Dave Gosselin at dgosselin2@unl.edu or 402-472-8919 if you are interested. You can have a great impact on a young person's life.
Thank you for considering this opportunity.