Overview

Mentored Research & Inquiry experiences have been a capstone learning experience and academic requirement for all students at the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) since 1990. The GSSM Research & Inquiry requirement for students includes a 6-week summer research experience with a Research Mentor like you! Students also communicate about their project and experience through their Research & Inquiry Portfolio culminating in their presentation at the GSSM Research Colloquium. Students are coached on their presentations by GSSM faculty & staff.

GSSM matches rising senior students with Research Mentors to identify a project within the group’s research that provides the summer research experience that is essential for completing the student’s academic research requirement. For most GSSM students, this is their first exposure to research, which requires a dynamic balance between guidance and independence from the Research Mentor. This experience makes a long-term impact on these bright, young minds that is only possible due to the talent, commitment, and generosity of Research Mentors like you.

Educational Objectives

Understand research project & process through deep engagement in an individual research project
Development of critical thinking, research skills & field-specific knowledge
Interaction with diverse professionals & students in research environment
Practice communication skills for technical & non-technical audiences

Working with Minors

Be aware of your institution’s restrictions on work with minors
Background checks may be necessary
Working hours within ~9AM – 5PM window
Supervision available at all times student is present
GSSM students living in residence at a site (college campuses with an agreement for residency) may not return to the residence halls during working hours

Program Details

Six working weeks: Monday-Friday for 6-8 hours per day (180-270 hours)
- Most research & inquiry experiences will occur June 7 - July 17, 2026
Research project guided by Research Mentor
- Daily supervision may be provided by an appropriate research group member (e.g., graduate student, post-doc, technician, etc.)
- Group projects are allowed
GSSM can supply documentation acknowledging mentorship in support of engagement/outreach efforts
Limited financial support for project supplies up to $500/student may be available
Collaboration on journal articles, conference presentations & science contest entries are encouraged when possible

Process & Timeline

Spring Semester - Junior Year

Research Mentor volunteers to provide Summer Mentored Research & Inquiry Experience
Student(s) matched with Research Mentor by GSSM
Research Mentor discusses project(s) and experience with student(s) via video conference (usually)

Summer

Summer Mentored Research & Inquiry Experience
Student completes Research & Inquiry Portfolio

Fall Semester - Senior Year

Student(s) present project at GSSM Research Colloquium
- Research Mentors are welcome to attend

Deliverables

Student

Title & Abstract
One-Minute Pitch
Personal Impact Statement (a short paper to explain the importance of the research work/field and the direct impact and significance the experience had on the student)
10-min Oral Presentation (Coaching prior to Research Colloquium by GSSM faculty & staff)

Research Mentor

Project Information Form
Research Mentor Feedback Form
Project Development Worksheet
Additional requirements specific to your institution

Contact Us

This general overview may not address all your questions about being a Research Mentor for a GSSM student. Please direct questions to GSSM’s Director of Research & Inquiry, Dr. Josh Witten (witten@governors.school; 803-594-2212).