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Successful implementation of the undergraduate research experience includes having a faculty mentor who is available, fostering a strong community of peers, and finding ways to engage in the larger research community. Therefore, the purpose of this presentation is to explore the importance of peer relationships and the mentor-mentee relationship in undergraduate research teams and to share the experiences of one undergraduate researcher. Group cooperation is important for a successful research experience. It is essential that each member makes and agrees on decisions. If members of the group do not agree or get along, it is possible that the experience will be poor and the research will fall apart. Moreover, establishment of a faculty-student relationship is critical to success. Research has shown that engagement in research with a faculty member, increased students' direct contact with their faculty mentors (Lopatto, 2006) and that strong relationships are formed when the faculty mentor is friendly, respectful, and responsive to questions. Student researchers will benefit by selecting the mentor who will help them grow and succeed in the best way possible. The mentor should be willing to meet with the student researcher when needed and also play a big role guiding and supporting the student researcher. With that, the student researcher should also know the balance in turning to the mentor too often and working through obstacles and challenges on their own. By creating and continuing strong and professional relationships with faculty mentors, student researchers will be more successful in multiple ways. It has been found that creation and maintenance of productive relationships with our mentors, have led to an increased understanding and knowledge of our respective fields, additional research opportunities, and overall enhanced personal and professional skills (Quarterly, 2013). With beneficial contributions from a faculty mentor, it helps create a good atmosphere and a smooth process for the researchers. Because the rewards and gains from a mentee-mentor relationship are so great, it proves to be essential for involvement of a faculty member to help make the research a success.
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