Undergraduate Research at FIU (URFIU) Conference

Adapting Pion Mentorship Program to Prepare Students for Post-Graduation

FIU Wellness & Recreation Center

To support undergraduate students at Florida International University’s Physics Department, the Pion Mentorship program has been adapted to incorporate peer mentorship, faculty mentorship, and professional development. This program is run by the Sigma Pi Sigma chapter at FIU, who’s students are primarily from historically underrepresented groups in physics like women and ethnic minorities. The program’s first aim pairs freshmen and sophomore students with their peers who are in upper division courses so they can receive guidance in their classes and advice for getting involved. Secondly, students and faculty are paired with the goal of facilitating a relationship where students learn about research and faculty learn how to be better mentors. Lastly, students attend various professional development workshops specifically tailored to their needs. The Pion Mentorship program has improved students’ preparedness for their post-graduation plans. Further details of the program including methods of obtaining student feedback, changes, and challenges that need to be overcome will be shared.