Want to feel more confident navigating library databases or refining your research question? Peer Research Mentors are here to help.

Our Research Mentors are trained student researchers who work closely with Union College librarians to support your research process, no matter the stage you’re in. Whether you're brainstorming ideas, exploring topics, locating scholarly sources, or citing your work properly, PRCs offer personalized, peer-to-peer guidance to help you build stronger research habits and tackle your assignments with clarity and confidence.

• Help developing a focused research question.
• Guidance on finding and evaluating scholarly sources.
• Support navigating library tools like Primo, JSTOR, and subject-specific databases.
• Strategies for organizing research and managing citations.
• Peer-to-peer advice grounded in academic experience.

Essential Information

Location:
The Writing Center: Schaffer Library, Rooms 226 and 227

Hours:
Sunday through Thursday, 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM.

By appointment during the academic term

Availability

Appointments typically opens during the first week of classes each term. Because we are staffed by students, appointments are only available when classes are in session.

Who Can Use This Service

All Union College students are welcome. Whether you're writing a first-year seminar paper or conducting independent research in your major, Research Mentors offer flexible support tailored to your goals.

How Do Sessions Work?

PRC appointments are easy to schedule. Sessions are typically 30 minutes and can be booked online in advance through Appointlet. We also manage the UChat on the Schaffer Library website, so feel free to chat with us for quick questions!

You don’t need to prepare anything formal. Just bring your assignment, your questions, or even your confusion– we’re here to help you get unstuck and move forward.