Leadership | 07.22.24
Nurturing Success: The NAMSS Mentorship Program and a Mentee's Journey
by Jackie Doherty, BA, CPCS, CPMSM
Mentorship programs have long been recognized as a cornerstone of professional development, providing invaluable guidance, support, and inspiration to mentees as they navigate their career paths. Among these, the National Association Medical Staff Services (NAMSS) Mentorship Program stands out for its commitment to fostering growth and excellence within the medical services profession.
When I joined the NAMSS Mentorship Program as a mentee in 2020, I had the privilege of experiencing firsthand the transformative power of mentorship. I was new to the world of academic medicine, and I was searching for a mentor who could provide guidance on the unique needs of an academic learning institution and share their own experiences with medical services system integration. From the outset, I was matched with a seasoned professional whose expertise and enthusiasm for mentoring was palpable. Our initial meetings were marked by open dialogue, where my mentor took the time to understand my goals, aspirations, and areas for growth.
One of the most striking aspects of the NAMSS Mentorship Program is its structured approach to mentorship. Through this carefully curated program, mentees are equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in their respective roles. Whether it's navigating complex regulatory frameworks or honing interpersonal skills, the program provides a comprehensive framework for professional development.
Beyond the structured curriculum, what truly sets the NAMSS Mentorship Program apart is the personalized attention and support provided by mentors. My mentor's dedication to my growth was evident in our check-ins where she offered invaluable advice, constructive feedback, and encouragement every step of the way. Through her guidance, I gained confidence in my abilities and clarity on how to navigate the world of academics and system integration. Not only did I gain a mentor, I gained a very dear friend whom even all these years later I can lean on for guidance and support.
One of the program's greatest strengths lies in its emphasis on cultivating a supportive community of peers. The mentorship program gives mentees the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, share insights, and forge meaningful relationships that extend beyond the duration of the program. The sense of camaraderie and solidarity fostered within the program is truly unparalleled.
As I reflect on my experience as a mentee, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities it has afforded me and the relationships I have cultivated as a result. From gaining new skills and knowledge to expanding my professional network, the program has been instrumental in shaping my journey as a medical services professional. In fact, as a newly registered mentor, I wish to pay it forward by empowering other medical staff services professionals through this valuable program.
I wholeheartedly recommend the NAMSS Mentorship Program and implore anyone seeking to unlock their full potential and embark on a path of growth and fulfillment in their career to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.
The NAMSS Mentorship Program moved to a new platform in the NAMSS Connection Zone. Use your NAMSS login credentials to log into the Connection Zone, and get started today!