I recently had the opportunity to explore the Diversity Blog, specifically the article titled 'A Mentoring Initiative to Bridge the Gap Between Who You Are and Who You Want to Be' (https://connect.informs.org/diversity/diversity-blog/mentoring-initative) by Shikha Safaya. This blog focuses on the 'To My Younger Self' (TMYS) program, which is designed to provide professional development and mentorship to women doctoral students. I was deeply impressed by the objectives of this program, as they resonated with my own journey as an international student from India studying in the USA.
One aspect that strongly aligns with my experiences is the emphasis on mentorship and networking. Much like the TMYS program participants, I have found immense value in seeking guidance from mentors and building a strong professional network. Networking has played a pivotal role in my academic and career growth, allowing me to connect with like-minded individuals and learn from their experiences.
However, my journey differs in that I transitioned to the corporate world immediately after my graduation from the academic realm. This transition brought unique challenges, and I needed mentorship to navigate this change effectively. Now, again as an international student navigating a new academic environment, understanding the norms and striving for success can be a challenging endeavor and I am continuously learning from people who shared the same journey.
I believe that mentorship is a universal need that can benefit individuals in various transitions, including career shifts. I invite you to share your experiences with mentorship and networking. How have mentors and networking impacted your journey? How did mentorship support you in those changes?
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences.
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Blessy Chinthapalli
UC Davis - MSBA
San Francisco CA
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