The Power of Mentorship!

When I accepted the role of graduate research assistant with MPL, I had a general idea of what I would learn. I expected to deepen my understanding of how a research lab operates — to build research skills, learn what a strong proposal looks like, and gain experience presenting at academic conferences. I looked forward to seeing what a dynamic, collaborative lab could look like within a department like special education. While I did learn all of those things, I didn’t expect my greatest takeaway to not be about research at all, but rather people and the power of mentorship! 

Being around positive, intelligent, driven, and compassionate mentors like Jrod and Emily

has been such a gift! I’m no stranger to leadership roles, whether as a coach, team captain, or teacher, but my experience with MPL challenged me to grow into a more compassionate, authentic, and transparent mentor than I’ve ever been before.

The collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of MPL makes communication and collaboration between disciplines a very valuable resource that yields innovative and creative results. With that collaboration comes the need for a flexible structure, clear expectations, and transparent leadership. Jrod and Emily were instrumental in helping me use my leadership skills effectively, pushing me to grow, while also helping me

encourage other lab members to shine.

When I first entered the field of education, I assumed it might be a lonely path. So much of the work happens behind closed doors, and the drive to produce impactful research can make the journey feel isolating. But I’ve learned just how vital community is in research. There is so much power in connection, sharing ideas, supporting each other, and showing up not just as individuals, but as part of a collective. 

The wonderful and unexpected thing about mentorship is that it is never a one-way street, and it’s never done alone. Behind every great mentor is another mentor who helped shape them, and behind that person is yet another. Your mentor’s mentor has a mentor. That lineage of support, wisdom, and encouragement is so powerful and inspiring!

When our lab attended the CEC conference in Baltimore, Maryland, I witnessed that mentorship lineage in real-time. Jrod was helping me prepare for our presentation the night before, and the next day,  I was helping the undergraduate students navigate the conference. Finally, on our last day, I met Jrod’s mentor— very full circle! 

Mentorship has reminded me that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about building others up while continuing to grow yourself. It’s about learning how to communicate with intention, collaborate with care, and lead with heart. It’s about making space at the table, and sometimes pulling up more chairs.

By: Kate Roberts, Team Lead