<p>I am a homeschooled high school student who is taking upper level math courses at a UC. I would like to eventually participate in the intel ISEF or STS, or apply for a Davidson fellowship. Usually students who participate in these competitions have mentors that assign research projects. My question was regarding how to go about finding one. This site, for instance suggests that you email professors with your request- Science</a> Buddies: How to Find a Mentor
However, I am afraid that some may interpret this as being rude. Maybe I'm being a little over pre-cautious. I appreciate any input. Thanks again.</p>
<p>I would GUESS that people wouldn’t find this rude, unless they say no and your persist, or they ignore you two or three times and you persist. Good luck!</p>
<p>The wisdom I have gleaned on this is that it is fine to contact potential mentors, but that you may ask for a meeting or short term help before you ask a stranger to be your mentor. Most people will not want to commit to a mentorship with a person they don’t know.</p>