Identifying and utilizing mentors

Abstract

The concept of mentorship has existed for a long time and has proved to be especially beneficial in medicine. Identifying and working with a mentor or mentor team can be a multifaceted approach and can occur through both formal and informal channels as well as both inside and outside one's field. There are several approaches to mentorship with one holistic model in the context of medical practice encompassing educational, professional, and personal aspects. Special considerations such as diversity in background and gender are important in elevating the status of all trainees, while pitfalls and challenges to mentorship should be made aware as can occur in any relationship. As the field of radiation oncology is small and evidence-based, mentorship helps maintain positive associations in the field, and more effort is needed to formalize sponsorship programs to help advance the careers of trainees and early-career faculty. Here, we offer practical ways to maximize the mentorship experience.