Mentoring

Epilepsy Rounds

Residents have the support of multiple faculty and peer mentors for career advice and engagement with the department.

Career mentor: Residents are paired with a faculty mentor at the beginning of the PGY1 year based on tentative career interests. Residents and mentors meet at least twice annually to review residency progress, discuss career plans and resident well-being, and identify any departmental resources that may help the resident achieve his/her goals. Residents may choose to switch mentors as career plans become more focused and relationships with faculty evolve. Senior residents are strongly encouraged to select mentors in their intended field of fellowship application.

Research mentor: Residents complete at least one longitudinal research project during their residency, under the guidance of a research mentor of their choosing. The department hosts an annual Research Blitz in the fall to encourage resident familiarity with ongoing research projects. Residents are also strongly encouraged to approach faculty with their own research ideas.  With all the resources in the Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Radiology, Psychology, Medicine, Physiology, Pharmacology, and the McKnight Brain Institute, there are nearly limitless opportunities to find guidance and support for your research interests.

Peer mentor: PGY1 residents are paired with PGY3 and PGY4 residents to facilitate their transition into the department. Senior residents serve as ambassadors for the residency, help the intern adjustment to his/her new role as a neurologist, and provide camaraderie. PGY1 residents spend time with their PGY4 mentors in continuity clinic during their Neurology rotations and then subsequently take over the graduating resident’s clinic the following year. This is an opportunity to gain familiarity with the continuity clinic process, learn outpatient LPs in a supportive environment, and meet the patient population for whom they will eventually be responsible.

Women in NeurologyWomen in Neurology: The departmental Women in Neurology group offers an opportunity for female residents, fellows, and faculty to come together for networking and mentorship. Monthly activities include topical discussions on leadership and career development, promotion of women’s health issues and work/life balance, and social activities.