We often think of mentorship as something reserved for entrepreneurs or those already pursuing their careers. The truth, however, is that anyone can benefit from having both short-term and long-term mentors. For medical school applicants, mentorship is a great way to tap into a wealth of both professional and academic knowledge. A mentor is ideally someone who is been through what you are currently going through, and who has managed to build a commendable career based on what you want to achieve. They may also be able to help by writing you a letter of recommendation, providing support throughout the medical school application process, and ensuring that all your requirements meet the standards that they should.

Furthermore, a medical school application mentor may very well become your mentor for your entire career as a medical student and even beyond that. They can provide motivation throughout some of your toughest seasons, help keep you focused on your goals and maintain your passion for your career. If that’s not enough, here are some other ways you can benefit from a mentor during the medical school application process and beyond.

Motivation and Accountability

Mentors can act as accountability partners and motivators. With so much to get done on the medical school application timeline, it is easy to procrastinate or fall behind. Your mentor should ensure that you are always doing what you are supposed to, since they will likely be invested in your progress. From making sure that you are adequately preparing for your MCAT exam, to advising you on the actual application requirements, you will find that having someone by your side makes you more accountable. You will also be motivated not only by their success but by the support that they provide.

Valuable Advice

Even for students who have done more than their fair share of research, the sheer number of requirements for medical school applications can be daunting and confusing. An expert mentor will know exactly what to do and when to do it on the medical school application timeline. Whether you need help in a certain area or you have specific questions to ask, they will be a great part of ensuring that your application is the best it can possibly be. Use your mentor’s experience and knowledge to gain the kind of advice you need.

Goal Setting and Career Advice Your mentor will help you to gain a clear understanding of what you want to achieve throughout your tenure as a student and beyond. Since they will likely be someone in the medical field, they can help you figure out why you want to be a physician, what kind of physician you want to be, and what you need to do to get there. Mentors help you to think critically about your career as a whole, not just your time as a student. In this way, they can boost your confidence, ignite your passion and push you closer to your goals.