High Impact Practices Student Showcase Fall 2025
From Student to Mentor: Building Confidence and Curiosity in Chemistry
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Course Code
CHM
Course Number
4942
Faculty/Instructor
Mathew Rex
Faculty/Instructor Email
Matthew.Rex@ucf.edu
Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement
This project took place in the Instuctrional Experineces in Undergraduate Chemistry course at UCF, where I served as an Undergraduate Learning Assistant (ULA) for an Introductory Chemistry class. The purpose of the project was to support students' learning, encourage curiosity, and foster confidence in understanding chemistry concepts. My role included assiting students during lecture, collaborating with the instructor to develop in-class questions, and facilitating peer discussions to promote engagement.
The experience had a meaningful impact on both the students and myself. Students demonstrated increased participation, improved problem solving skills, and greater confidence in their abilities. For me, the role strengthened my communication, leadership, and mentoring skills, while reinforcing my own understanding of chemistry concepts.
Keywords
Service-learning; Undergraduate Learning Assistant; Mentorship; Chemistry education; Student engagement; Peer discussion; Active Learning; Confidence building; Academic growth; Teaching experience
Recommended Citation
Marrero, Dhaniela M., "From Student to Mentor: Building Confidence and Curiosity in Chemistry" (2025). High Impact Practices Student Showcase Fall 2025. 22.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/hip-2025fall/22