Seth Morones-Ramirez was an amazing mentor, because he was always willing to go out of his way to support me. He helped me transition easily into graduate school life. Academically he helped me get through particularly challenging classes, and always gave great, honest advice when I was navigating specific course selection for my program. In addition to his academic support, Seth made sure that my whole life, not just my academic life, was going well. He always checked to ensure I was happy, had friends and felt comfortable in Philadelphia.  He was extremely supportive, always willing to help, and gave honest and constructive advice. He always made time to meet with me, and worked around my location/scheduling. Seth was a great mentor, and I am very thankful to have had the opportunity to get to know him.

Education Policy

I had an extremely wonderful experience with my mentor, Aimee Yuka Kim. She gave me great academic support, such as by having weekly or bi-weekly meetings to help me prepare for my Ph.D. applications. I am always impressed by her detailed feedback. Besides academic support, I also received great emotional support. My mentor is very responsive to any questions or problems I have and gives me very thoughtful advice. Also, she invited me to her house to celebrate Thanksgiving day, and we spent time together to celebrate the last week of the fall semester. These experiences helped me adjust to a new environment and enriched my life during graduate studies.

Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development

Megan Sage was an incredible mentor to me. Each time we talked she listened deeply to what I was saying and always had a unique perspective based on her own rich experiences. I don't know what I would have done without Megan this semester! Mentorship has always been an area of deep interest for me and the mentors I have had along the way have profoundly shaped my life. When I saw that PennGSE offered a mentorship program, I was very excited. Moving to a big city alone and starting a new chapter of my life at a prestigious academic institution was a bit daunting to say the least. I nominated Megan because she helped ease that transition for me with her positive attitude, energy, and continual support. The word for mentor was first introduced in Homer’s ​Odyssey. Before sending his son on his epic journey, Ulyssess drafted the help of his friend Mentor, a highly respected and wise teacher, to educate and provide intellectual and emotional support. Megan embodies what it means to be a mentor. Megan is an accomplished, intelligent, and fascinating woman who generously shares her experiences with me. The vulnerability she shows creates a physically and emotionally safe environment that allows me to open up and really dig deeper into how I can improve or gain new perspective on any situation. During our meetings, Megan always asks what have been my "peaks and pits" of the week, and listens empathetically as I share what is going on in my life, what I am enjoying, what I am struggling with, etc. Megan has a great perspective and attitude on life, and I am thankful she shares her experiences and provides continual support and guidance for mine. For all of these reasons, I strongly believe Megan deserves the best mentor award.

Learning Sciences and Technologies