What is Mentorship?

Mentorship is a relationship between two or more people (mentees and mentors) that involves more experienced mentor(s) guiding less experienced mentee(s) toward their mutually determined goals. The goals for a faculty mentee typically involve desire for growth in a particular area of teaching, research, patient care, or leadership. In most cases, mentorship is a strategic intervention, intended to help the mentee move from their current to their desired state. Ideally, the relationship should be goal-oriented, action-oriented, and learning-oriented and should last for a pre-determined amount of time.

Who are the Mentors?

All clinical and research faculty, regardless of academic rank, are encouraged to become mentors. Ideal faculty mentors are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experience with other faculty. Mentors should be accessible, encouraging, and supportive and should be comfortable providing constructive feedback to their mentees. Volunteering as a mentor often leads to greater career satisfaction. 

Who are the Mentees?

All clinical and research faculty, regardless of academic rank, are encouraged to become mentees. Mentees may need advice or guidance in research, promotion planning, work-life balance, or other skills. Ideal mentees are passionate about growing professionally, learning new skills, navigating their career path, and expanding their professional networks. Mentees should take the initiative in establishing and maintaining a mentoring relationship and should be comfortable with receiving constructive feedback from their mentors. Being a mentee often leads to greater career satisfaction.