Honors College Hosts First Mentorship Mixer to Connect Students and Faculty
East Texas A&M University’s Honors College hosted its first Mentorship Mixer on Sept. 25 at the Velma K. Waters Library, giving undergraduate students the opportunity to meet faculty members outside the classroom and explore research and career interests.
The mixer was created in response to student feedback, which highlighted a strong interest in faculty mentorship. The event drew over 30 honors students and more than a dozen faculty members.
“In higher education, we continually witness the transformative nature of student-faculty mentorship,” said Brittney Yager, assistant dean of honors student programs and undergraduate research. “By creating a welcoming, informal environment where faculty and students can gather and engage in meaningful conversations, we hope to foster the natural development of ideas, collaborative projects and valuable relationships.”
During the event, students rotated among tables, holding conversations that ranged from thesis advising to career prospects and research opportunities. Each student received a card to jot down contact information and discussion notes, with conversation prompts included to spark ideas. Most discussions, however, flowed organically. For any attendee whose stomach grumbled during the event, a spread of sweet treats was provided to hold them over until dinner.
The Mentorship Mixer aligns with university efforts to make research opportunities more accessible to all students. Yager emphasized the importance of connecting students—particularly first-generation undergraduates—with faculty mentors who can guide them toward research and professional goals.
Although designed for Honors College undergraduates, the event welcomed walk-ins from other students curious about research opportunities.
The Honors College plans to continue building faculty-student connections through similar initiatives. Students can monitor the university's Community Calendar for announcements about upcoming events.