How a Mentorship Training Transformed My Professional and Personal Growth
Have you ever wondered what it takes to become not just a good leader, but an inspiring mentor in the field of public health? Earlier this year, I discovered the answer through a mentorship training program, hosted by Emerging Women Leaders at the Boston University School of Public Health, where I am a student. After three hours, I walked away with actionable strategies to align mentor-mentee expectations, enhance communication, and achieve a healthier integration between work and life.. Here are my key take-aways:
- Aligning Mentor-Mentee Expectations: This section was particularly eye-opening. We were provided with numerous examples of how to set clear, mutual expectations between mentors and mentees. The discussions highlighted common challenges in these relationships and offered practical solutions for improvement. By understanding how to align expectations early on, I have been able to foster more productive and positive mentoring experiences.
- Maintaining Effective Communication: Communication is at the heart of any successful mentoring relationship, and this section of the training focused on honing this critical skill. We participated in exercises to identify our communication styles, which was incredibly insightful. Understanding my style has allowed me to adapt my approach when interacting with others, leading to more effective and meaningful conversations. Additionally, the training provided a wealth of resources on how to improve communication skills, which have been invaluable in both my professional and personal life.
- Enhancing Work-Life Integration: In the final section, we explored strategies to improve work-life balance—an area that is often overlooked but crucial for long-term success. The training offered practical tips and techniques to manage time and set boundaries. These strategies have helped me maintain a healthier balance between my academic responsibilities and personal life, making me more effective and resilient.
- Professional Growth: This training has been transformative for my professional growth. It provided me with the tools to be a better mentor and leader, helping me understand and support others more effectively. In a recent group project, I applied the communication techniques I learned, resulting in a more collaborative outcome. These skills have strengthened my connections with peers and professors and improved my confidence in leadership roles.
The Broader Impact of EWL’s Work
EWL’s mentorship training is a fantastic example of how the program empowers public health professionals through skill development, leadership training, and networking. For master’s students, these opportunities are invaluable for both career and personal growth. My experience with the mentorship training has been transformative, making me a better mentor, leader, and communicator. I encourage my peers to get involved with EWL and similar programs, as investing in these skills will benefit them throughout their careers.
