INFORMS Open Forum

  • 1.  The Impact of Mentorship on Career Transitions

    Posted 11-02-2023 22:39
    Edited by Blessy Chinthapalli 11-02-2023 22:44

    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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  • 2.  RE: The Impact of Mentorship on Career Transitions

    Posted 11-03-2023 12:43

    Having just gone through a major career transition myself, I will say that networking, mentorship, and sponsorship are all critical.  None of the traditional job application paths yielded results....only those opportunities pursued through my network.  Some of that network I had established previously through employment, but those connections as well as others were gained through active a deliberate participation in a couple of professional societies, including INFORMS.  Volunteering time and working with others outside of you primary employer gives us the opportunity to demonstrate to others why they might want to work with us in paid roles.  That could be collaboration or actual employment.  At a minimum these contacts serve as references.  And certainly the volunteer roles you fill can look great on a resume/CV.  Another thing is that networks must continue to evolve.  I have found that networks also help highlight opportunities one might not otherwise even know about.



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    Nicholas Ulmer
    Faculty
    CANA
    Pacific Grove CA
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: The Impact of Mentorship on Career Transitions

    Posted 11-09-2023 10:25

    Gaining a network and a mentor in OR was very important to me as I was transitioning from a career in biology and climate science. I also did my MS in OR online so did not meet fellow students during my transition to a new field. The INFORMS conference was where I found new collogues and finally felt like I belonged. I now have people I can lean on for advice.

    A part of that journey for me was to participate in the predecessor to the Early Career Professionals Network (ECPN). This is a full day workshop at the Analytics Conference where you can meet others just starting out and also several professionals that have been in the business and succeeded in their careers. The ECPN is accepting nominations for the next conference now. Please consider it if you are just starting in this profession or still in school. Here is the website: https://meetings.informs.org/wordpress/analytics2024/ecpn/



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    Heather Moe
    Principle Product Engineer
    Esri
    Redlands CA
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    Original Message


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