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The Distinction in Research is a nine-month mentored research experience. A mentor is someone who supports your personal and professional development. What should you expect from a good mentor? Your mentor will be your primary source for direction, education, and immersion in the research world. Choosing a mentor is a critical component of the Distinction.
- Time and commitment to you
- Constructive and timely feedback
- Acts as a positive role model
- Has expertise/experience in the area of your interest
- Is your advocate/sponsor
- Does not have a conflict of interest
How do you identify someone who would be a good mentor to you?
- Look at their background
- Do Do they do something you are interested in? Do
- Is research a significant part of their job? Do they publish regularly? Do they have regular research meetings they attend or lead?
- Do they have a career or career trajectory you are interested in?
- Would they share some of your experiences/challenges?
- Ask them questions:
- Why you chose to mentor a med school student, and what do you hope to gain from this experience?
- What does mentee success look like to you? What skills do you think your protégé should develop?
- Who is in your team and how would I fit in?
- What are your expectations (time, production, etc.)?
- How do you prefer to help protégés learn to conduct research? Is there a process that you normally follow?
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