When Ann Mascarenhas started her research at Wayne State University, she had a strong ally by her side: her mentor, Dr. Vijaya Kumar. This partnership was key to her success.
Ann, a junior studying public health, got involved through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program. With Dr. Kumar, a professor of Emergency Medicine, she focused on a project about RSV vaccinations among older adults. This group is at high risk for complications, especially if they already have health issues.
“Dr. Kumar treated me like a real researcher from day one,” Ann recalls. “He pushed me to grow and trusted me with important tasks—even when I felt unsure.” This mentorship made a significant impact. Ann learned how to create surveys, gather data, and analyze results—all skills she might have struggled with without Dr. Kumar’s support.
“Mentorship is vital,” Dr. Kumar says. “Students need someone to believe in them before they see their own potential.” His approach combined high expectations with patience, encouraging Ann to dive into data analysis even when she was new to the software. “When I made mistakes, he taught me instead of criticizing me,” she adds. This positive environment helped her build confidence.
Thanks to this mentorship, Ann discovered new opportunities. After her RSV study, she began working with Dr. Kumar on four more projects. She believes that UROP creates valuable mentoring relationships that go beyond just one study, helping students shape their future paths.
“I realized I was in the right place during my first public health class,” Ann shares. “Having a mentor who believes in you is crucial.” She’s noticed how impressed people are that she, as an undergraduate, is involved in advanced research. “Wayne State faculty truly invest time in mentoring students.”
Looking ahead to her graduation in 2026, Ann plans to pursue graduate studies and continue researching access to care for vulnerable groups. “I’d love to stay here for grad school,” she says. “Experiencing good mentorship has been transformative. It’s about having someone who believes in you while you learn to help others.”
In March, UROP will become the Office of Undergraduate Research, officially launching during the Warrior Scholars Conference for Undergraduate Research and Creative Work.
For more information about the program, you can visit UROP here.
This story highlights an essential trend in education: mentorship can profoundly impact students’ journeys. According to a 2021 survey by Gallup, 55% of college students with a mentor are more likely to gain valuable skills and feel engaged in their studies. Mentorship not only enhances academic experiences but also prepares students for future challenges, underscoring the importance of supportive faculty relationships in educational settings.
Ann’s and Dr. Kumar’s collaboration shines a light on how effective mentoring fosters growth, innovation, and a passion for research.
