This chapter describes a field‐based experience based on Native American best mentoring practices that brings together traditional ecological knowledge and Western science to build relationships and understanding between Native students and faculty mentors.

There is a pressing need for American Indian and Native Alaskan professionals who have the preparation necessary to address the quality of life and natural resource issues in Native communities. We assert that universities should adopt proactive strategies that build pathways for Natives to obtain advanced degrees.

This chapter introduces the importance of the Native voice, culture, and ways of knowing in education and research from various tribal peoples’ perspective.