Feedback from post-mentorships surveys over the past 5 years show that students find Hugo mentorships valuable in many ways, enabling them to gain skills and build the confidence, clarity and connections that will help them succeed in college and beyond.
Mentees were asked to describe the most meaningful aspects of the Hugo Mentors program experience. The following is a visual display of the most prevalent themes. Mentees identified the program's value through the immediate and longer-term impact of its design and opportunities, which created a ripple effect in their personal and professional growth.
Click on each circle to read a student quote or click on
Mentor Discussions & Interactions
Guided Exploration of a Topic Area
Academic Confidence & Intellectual Empowerment
Self-Discovery
Expertise
In open ended responses, students described the benefits they gained and skills they anticipate using in the future.
Below is a visual display of the most prevalent themes.
Mentees described the most important characteristics of their mentor in making the mentorship a positive experience. The following is a visual display of the most prevalent themes.
Click on each circle to read a student quote.
Expertise
Balance of Nurture and Challenge
Personal Connection & Investment
Personalized Learning
Bespoke Mentor Pairing
Role Model
Below is drawn from 171 qualitative responses of the most prevalent themes.
Mentees reported a new found enthusiasm and excitement for research, transforming their perceptions and sparking a desire to engage in research activities in college and beyond. They now see research as an interesting and valuable endeavor.
Many mentees mentioned significant improvements in their academic and writing skills, particularly in research, organization, and critical analysis. These skills are seen as valuable for future academic endeavors, including college-level courses and papers.
Mentees emphasized that the mentorship experience helped them identify their specific areas of interest and passion. It also served as a launchpad, providing the momentum to continue pursuing and developing these interests.
Many students emphasized increased confidence in academic and personal capabilities, including problem-solving and time management skills. Mentees felt better equipped to tackle future challenges and assignments.
The mentorship experiences were seen as valuable preparation for college and advanced studies. Mentees felt that the skills and insights gained would be beneficial in higher education and future academic pursuits.
Mentees reported gaining valuable knowledge specific to their fields of interest, which they plan to apply in their future careers. This included learning about specific subjects, technical skills, and professional practices.
I think the most meaningful aspect of this mentoring experience for me was the relationship I created with [my mentor]. It was an amazing experience because not only was I lucky enough to work with such a smart and determined person, but I was also able to discover something that I loved working through so much.
I think the most meaningful aspect of this mentoring experience for me was the relationship I created with [my mentor]. It was an amazing experience because not only was I lucky enough to work with such a smart and determined person, but I was also able to discover something that I loved working through so much.