Health Research Institute
image of the inside of the h-stem building first floor

T32 Peer Mentoring Program

Program Overview 

The MTU NIH T32 Peer Mentoring Program is an integral part of the T32 training program. This program is designed to support the transition and professional development of our incoming research fellows.

Each incoming T32 Fellow is paired with an experienced current MTU PhD student (typically in their second to fourth year) in a focused, one-on-one mentoring relationship.

This peer model provides a supportive environment where Fellows receive practical, experience-based advice on navigating the challenges of research-intensive PhD programs, such as balancing research and coursework, preparing for qualifying exams, and building a professional network.

Mentor Selection and Expectations

Graduate students will be able to volunteer to mentor a T32 fellow if they are interested in their second to fourth year. Once they have completed the volunteer form, they will be matched with a T32 fellow appropriately. 

The expectations for mentors are as follows:

  1. Meet with their mentee for one hour each month.
  2. Complete monthly check-in surveys.
  3. Participate in at least three social or professional development activities for T32 students and graduate mentors.

Program Structure

  • Peer Mentoring: 1:1 match between a current MTU graduate student (Mentor) and an incoming T32 fellow (Mentee).
  • Focus: Practical guidance on research, time management, departmental navigation, and work-life balance. Discussions are tailored to each Fellow’s goals and progress.
  • Accountability: Short, confidential surveys are used to evaluate match quality, identify areas for improvement, and track program impact.
  • Community: Informal gatherings are hosted throughout the year to foster community and professional connections within the T32 cohort.

Benefits for Peer Mentors

Participating as a Peer Mentor offers valuable professional development and networking opportunities. 

  • Leadership and Communication Experience: Develop mentorship, coaching, and interpersonal skills highly valued in both academic and industry settings.
  • Networking and Visibility: Connect with other T32 fellows, program leadership, and faculty to expand your professional network within and beyond your department.
  • Community Engagement: Contribute to an exclusive and collaborative research environment by helping new fellows integrate and thrive at MTU.
  • Professional Development Events: Access to mentor-focused workshops,
    appreciation events, and networking socials hosted by the T32 program.