The Importance of Mentors and How to Handle More Than One Mentor

Abstract

IntroductionWorking with multiple mentors is a critical way for students to expand their network, gain opportunities, and better prepare for future scholastic or professional ventures. However, students from underrepresented groups (UR) are less likely to be mentored or have access to mentors, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. We developed and implemented a workshop, to provide the necessary foundation for students to be better prepared for establishing future mentorships throughout graduate and professional school.MethodsFaculty well-versed in the area of effective mentorship from multiple universities developed and delivered a 1.5-hour workshop to address the roles of a mentor, especially when it comes to UR students, and how students may effectively work with multiple mentors. This workshop was delivered to a group of students from the HBCU Winston Salem State University, and a pre/post-Likert scale-based survey was administered.ResultsWe analyzed the raw data with nonparametric tests for comparison within paired samples. Wilcoxon matched-pairs and signed-rank tests showed statistically significant growth in student self-ratings related to the workshop learning objectives.ConclusionsThe “How to Handle More than One Mentor to Achieve Excellence” workshop was well received as a component of pre-graduate and pre-professional training. Incorporating workshops like this may increase student preparedness around developing and cultivating healthy mentorship relationships throughout STEM training.EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVESBy the end of this workshop, learners will be able to:Describe the role of mentors in developing the next generation of trainees.Describe current research on mentorship among underrepresented populations.Apply skills on effective communication needed in the development of successful mentorship relationships.Work with multiple mentors at one time while maintaining solid professional and personal relationships.