It may seem intuitive that the mentor steer the relationship with his/her mentee — after all, (s)he is likely the senior party. However, it can be argued that mentees should be more proactive than their mentors in directing the partnership. Mentees who sit idle are subject to being overlooked by busy mentors. Mentors wisely attend to mentees who demonstrate how much they value their professional development.
What steps have you taken to show a mentor that you’re eager and committed?
About Erin Thomas
Erin L. Thomas, Gender Diversity Specialist, works to develop systematic approaches for the representation, development and advancement of researchers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics careers at Argonne while engaging both female and male staff.
Dr. Thomas has a PhD in Social Psychology from Yale University, where she conducted research on race and gender perceptions in workplace, economic and social policy contexts. She also received bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and International Studies and a master’s of science from Yale.
It may seem intuitive that the mentor steer the relationship with his/her mentee — after all, (s)he is likely the senior party. However, it can be argued that mentees should be more proactive than their mentors in directing the partnership. Mentees who sit idle are subject to being overlooked by busy mentors. Mentors wisely attend to mentees who demonstrate how much they value their professional development.