Do you want to get involved with science fairs in BC and the Yukon? Science fair students look to mentors for guidance when creating their projects, and for advice when they run into problems or don't know what the experiment results mean. While you don't need a background in science to be a mentor, some knowledge of scientific methods and concepts will help. Advanced students also benefit from technical knowledge, academic journal articles, and lab space and equipment. We've included below a list of resources to help as you guide a student through the scientific profess, from start to finish.

Thinking of becoming a mentor? Here are some of the qualities we look for.

Mentors for elementary school students need to be:

• Patient, and willing to explain (sometimes difficult) concepts to youth

• A good communicator, and able to clearly convey ideas at different levels

• Enthusiastic for STEM, and excited at the idea of encouraging young minds to explore science

Mentors for secondary school  and undergrad students also need to have:

• Some technical knowledge in scientific methods and techniques

• Access to lab space and scientific journals, and knowledge of how to operate specialized lab equipment

• Familiarity with advanced scientific techniques and concepts

• Experience writing and presenting high-level research papers and studies

All mentors need to be passionate about science and nurturing creativity and curiosity in youth.

If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you! Fill out the online mentorship application form, or reach out to us at info@sciencefairs.ca

Already a mentor and looking for resources? Look below for links, files and other information to help your student develop a spectacular science fair project.