Yuhan Bi Received OUMP AwardIssue 22: Fall 2023

In spring 2023, Yuhan Bi participated in the Outreach Undergraduate Mentoring Program (OUMP), a program designed to provide mentoring and resources to undergraduates who are from an underrepresented background and who want to pursue further education in psychology. Because of her dedication to the program and her intent to grow as a researcher, Yuhan was awarded the Promising Novice Researcher Mentee Award. Congratulations Yuhan! Given Yuhan’s experience and accomplishments as a mentee, we asked Yuhan for insight on OUMP.

Interviewer: What was your experience like as a mentee for OUMP?

Yuhan: When I first joined the program, I filled out a survey outlining my expectations for the mentorship. This initial step ensured the program could tailor the mentoring experience to meet my needs, which I greatly appreciated. Through a careful matching process, I was paired with a Clinical Psychology PhD student, who was both reliable and supportive. She was on top of keeping our mentor meetings going frequently and regularly. I thank her for openly sharing her experience of preparing for graduate school: It was definitely insightful and beneficial.

Interviewer: What was your biggest takeaway from the program?

Yuhan: OUMP offers many resources in addition to the mentorships. They sent valuable emails about resources to enhance students’ abilities and information about internship positions that allow students to explore the field.

Interviewer: What skills did you learn as part of OUMP?

Yuhan: I learned how important it is to catch all the opportunities. When my mentor first suggested nominating me for the Promising Novice Researcher Mentee Award, I was hesitant, doubting whether I was truly deserving compared to other outstanding mentees. However, with my mentor’s encouragement, I learned it would not hurt to try. I agreed to send her the necessary information for the nomination. I appreciate my mentor’s support in helping me develop this venturesome mindset.