Dr. Jay Yoo Recognized for Excellence in Undergraduate Mentoring
At Baylor University, undergraduate mentorship plays a role in shaping students’ academic and professional journeys. It extends beyond the classroom, providing unique opportunities for students to apply learned knowledge in real-world situations while also strengthening confidence in their abilities. For Jay Yoo, PhD, Associate Professor of Apparel Merchandising, this work is an important part of his role as an educator.
In Spring 2026, Yoo was honored as a recipient of the Elizabeth Vardaman Faculty Awards for Excellence in Mentoring Undergraduates. The annual award, presented by Baylor’s Office of Engaged Learning, recognizes faculty who “go beyond the call of duty in their mentorship of undergraduates, demonstrating excellence in, and sustained commitment to, helping these students excel through engaged learning activities.”
Yoo’s research interests range from body image and quality of life among cancer patients, irrational shopping and extreme body modification, to the role retail therapy can play on one’s mental health. He encourages his mentees to be open-minded when it comes to their professional career paths.
“Many students don’t initially see themselves as researchers,” he said. “But through the mentorship, they begin to gain confidence in their ideas and abilities. Watching them shape their future careers and grow their research from poster presentations into publications while developing a strong sense of ownership is incredibly rewarding.”
That growth is often seen as students gain valuable research experiences. One project that stands out to Yoo involved an honors thesis on body image among individuals with physical disabilities. The student conducted in-depth interviews on a sensitive topic and presented the work at conferences—earning national recognition.
“It was rewarding to see the project evolve from an initial idea into an award-winning conference presentation. This further led to being invited to presentations within the Waco community,” he recalled. “The student’s findings emphasized how individuals can reframe negative perceptions through faith-informed perspectives, cultivating a more positive and affirming sense of identity and self-worth.”
For Yoo, some of the most meaningful mentorship moments come when his students share their work publicly for the first time. And while mentorship plays an important role in student development, Yoo mentions that it is also a reciprocal experience.
“I feel most proud when students start to present or publish their research,” he said. “Many begin the process feeling nervous, but when they stand in front of others and confidently share their work, it becomes a powerful moment of growth. Seeing that transformation and seeing their sense of accomplishment is incredibly fulfilling.
“Mentoring is deeply important to me. It provides a strong sense of purpose and connection, and I learn a great deal from my students in return. Their perspectives, questions, and ideas often challenge me to think in new ways and continue growing as both an educator and a researcher.”
Yoo encourages his Apparel Merchandising students to seek mentorship opportunities across the University and to build intentional relationships with faculty.
“Be proactive and open—reach out to professors and ask about the work they do. Don’t hesitate to connect with faculty whose teaching or research may be outside your major, as mentorship often grows through collaboration and new perspectives,” he advised. “Building a mentoring relationship usually begins with a simple conversation. It’s also important to stay engaged and be willing to learn.”
Through his commitment to undergraduate mentorship, Yoo continues to support student growth, create meaningful research experiences, and contribute to an engaged learning environment at Baylor. As just one of six recipients across the University’s academic units, Yoo said he was “honored, humbled, and surprised” to receive a 2026 Vardaman Award. He added that the recognition highlights the importance of supporting students beyond the classroom.
“Mentorship is a central part of academic work,” he said. “This recognition motivates me to continue supporting students’ growth and development in intentional ways.”
ABOUT ROBBINS COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SCIENCES AT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
Established in 2014, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences seeks to enhance health, quality of life, and human flourishing for all individuals and communities through education, research, and innovation. It includes seven academic departments—Communication Sciences and Disorders; Health, Human Performance, and Recreation; Human Sciences and Design; Occupational Therapy; Physical Therapy; Physician Assistant Studies; and Public Health. Robbins College offers 13 bachelor’s degrees, 10 master’s degrees, and six doctoral degrees, as well as nine graduate programs in partnership with the U.S. Army. Graduate programs in Robbins College are offered in a variety of modalities, including on campus, online, and hybrid.