Cortlyn R
- Research Program Mentor
EdM at University of Southern California (USC)
Expertise
Education, Educational Leadership, Cultural Diversity and Inclusion, Biology, Business
Bio
I am a higher education and student affairs professional with a strong commitment to access, equity, and student success. As a first-generation college graduate and a woman of color, I deeply value the role education and mentorship play in shaping opportunity. I am passionate about supporting students—especially those from historically minoritized backgrounds—on their academic journeys and ensuring they have the tools and support to thrive. My work is rooted in the belief that mentorship is essential to student growth and empowerment. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, staying active, and cooking new recipes. I especially love hanging out with my French bulldog, Stella. I'm passionate about building community and connecting with others, and I look forward to sharing my experiences to help students reach their personal and academic goals.Project ideas
Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.
Exploring the First-Generation College Student Experience
Explore the experiences of first-generation college students, focusing on themes like belonging, academic support, and identity. Personal stories or interviews could be conducted to better understand the challenges and strengths of this community in higher education.
The Impact of Mentorship on College Student Success
Examine how mentorship—formal or informal—affects college students’ academic confidence, engagement, and sense of belonging. Analyze existing research, interview peers with mentors, or survey student participants in mentorship programs to identify common outcomes and themes.
Teaching experience
Throughout my undergraduate career, I served as a peer mentor and instructor for a course designed to support first-year, first-generation college students as they transitioned into college life. After completing my master’s program, I continued mentoring by supporting current graduate students, offering guidance and advice based on my own experiences. Today, I work at a college where I continue this commitment by serving as a mentor for first-generation students, helping them navigate academic and personal challenges. Mentorship has remained a central part of my work, and I’m passionate about creating spaces where students feel seen, supported, and empowered.Credentials
Work experience
Center for Education, Identity, and Social Justice | University of Southern California (2019 - 2020)
Research InternResearch Methods & Applied Educational Ethnography | Rossier School of Education (2020 - 2020)
Student Researcher & PresenterPitzer College (2021 - Current)
Associate Director of Campus Life and Student EngagementEducation
University of Redlands
BA Bachelor of Arts (2019)
Business Management; BiologyUniversity of Southern California (USC)
EdM Master of Education (2020)
Post-secondary Administration and Student Affairs