In the experiences and meetings I have had so far this semester with my WF faculty mentor Professor Frank I think what comes to mind is a level of informal but mutual organization and responsibility. As I have become more well acquainted with Professor Frank through our meetings early on as a freshman and having had a few courses with her, I would say meeting with her as a faculty mentor is not quite as formal as I would have thought if I was a fellow in a course that I had less familiarity with its subject and professor. The advice I would provide, regardless of a fellow’s level of friendliness, is to be on top of your end of the bargain so that when you find time to meet with your usually incredibly busy mentor, there is an emphasis on professionalism between you and the professor. Being honest and upfront with them about where you might be confused or where you would like their input is a constructive way to ensure the meetings are not wasted by a fellow’s disorganization or having to play catch-up. If there is a situation like mine where your WF mentor also happens to be your professor AND your faculty mentor for your major, adding another layer to your relationship where this mutual respect and acknowledgment of a shared role in the student’s academics can be a special situation; I know I have gained even more admiration and understanding of her work as a professor.
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