Share Paper: Making (Online) Space for Peer Mentoring in Doctoral Programs

  1. Shannon Tucker, Towson University, United States
  2. Alexis Guethler, Towson University, United States
  3. Andrew Holt, Towson University, United States
  4. Emily Stellmann, Towson University, United States
  5. Joseph Runciman, Towson University, United States
Thursday, October 6 11:30 AM-12:30 PM Room 2

Abstract: The persistence and success of doctoral candidates is an important consideration for higher-ed institutions and programs. Doctoral students need academic and social support throughout their programs. However, the autonomous pathways students pursue during candidacy and dissertation research present challenges that impact student mental health, well-being, and progress. Dissertation research during candidacy is characterized by increased isolation, feelings of impostor syndrome, and academic growth necessitating support that existing family and social support networks are ill-equipped to meet. This panel presentation shares the experiences of five doctoral candidates creating a peer writing group to support dissertation accountability during COVID-19 and how it ...