Say YES to mentorship: Growing together through the Tiered Mentoring Program
At The University of Akron, mentorship is more than advice—it’s a pathway to confidence, connection, and career success. The Department of Biology's Tiered Mentoring Program in the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences pairs undergraduate students with faculty mentors, graduate students and experienced peers, creating a supportive network that helps students thrive in the biology and biomedical sciences.
Students begin their journey as mentees, gaining hands-on experience in research, internships and clinical shadowing opportunities with local community partners. By their second year, they step into leadership roles as mentors for the next class of students. This cycle of learning and guidance builds a strong sense of belonging while helping students explore career pathways, persist in their degrees, and prepare competitive applications for graduate and professional schools.
The Tiered Mentoring Program is made possible by generous yearly support from Norbert Thompson and a gift from Carolyn Olive in memory of her late husband, John Olive, a beloved professor in the Department of Biology. Their commitment ensures that Akron students can say “yes” to mentorship, discovery and a future filled with opportunity.
Media contact: Cristine Boyd, cboyd@uakron.edu, 330-972-6476