Why do I need mentoring?

Mentoring helps create community, gain insider knowledge, and expand networks for doctoral students.

As a doctoral student, completing your degree can seem to be long and challenging. However, having a mentor can make all the difference in the world. In this blog, we will discuss four reasons why mentoring is important for doctoral students.

1. Mentoring creates community! Doctoral students can feel isolated in their coursework and research, since the deeper you get into your content area the fewer people there are that share your expertise. Having a mentor provides an opportunity to engage with someone who has already gone through the process, Mentors can help students connect with other professionals in their field, expanding their network and creating a sense of belonging. If you can access more than one mentor, you can create a thriving community of support.

2. Gain insider knowledge! A mentor can offer invaluable insights into the academic world, including knowledge about the publishing process, funding opportunities, and job prospects. Mentors can share their own experiences and guide students toward the best resources for their research, helping them to avoid potential pitfalls and obstacles. You will be amazed at what you learn, both about the dissertation process, but also about succeeding in your profession.

3. Expand knowledge! Mentors can provide guidance in areas outside of the student's research focus. Other mentors can share their most effective tips on professional development skills like time management, organization, and communication. Mentors can also introduce students to new ideas and research methodologies, broadening their understanding of their field and opening new avenues for exploration. My favorite advice came about in a casual conversation with a mentor – she stated: You can do it all, just not all at the same time!

4. Networking! Mentors can be key in expanding a student's professional network. They can introduce students to other professionals in their field, facilitating connections and opportunities for collaboration. Mentors can also serve as a reference or recommendation for their mentees, increasing their visibility and credibility in the field.

In conclusion, mentoring can provide doctoral students with the support, guidance, and knowledge necessary to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits. By creating a community, gaining insider knowledge, expanding knowledge, and networking, students can achieve their goals with the guidance of a mentor. What do you see as the greatest benefit of mentoring?

Email me at mentoring@deamarx.org and let me know your thoughts!