1. Michigan Doctoral Experience Study: An Overview of Mentoring and Related Outcomes

Michigan Doctoral Experience Study: An Overview of Mentoring and Related Outcomes

February 2024 | Rackham Faculty Allies
John A. Gonzalez

In this presentation to faculty, we provide insights from the Michigan Doctoral Experience Study related to doctoral student mentoring, well-being, identity, and other sociocognitive constructs. Mentoring experiences (particularly mentor emotional support) significantly impact students’ well-being and thoughts of quitting. Intention to quit is also predicted by students’ sense of autonomy and competence, their mental health, and their funding situation, while demographics become less significant when accounting for these factors. The interrelationship among these constructs suggests a systematic approach is needed for understanding what influences doctoral student development and attrition.