DO - Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Alumni Update
Mentoring Made Easy
by Sharon Zimmerman
Jeff Stanley, D.O. (‘82)
For nearly every student who has walked through the doors of OU-COM, life changes
dramatically often in part because of an interaction with someone in the osteopathic
profession. Osteopathic physicians have a long history of reaching out to those learning
the art of osteopathic medicine. You, our OU-COM alumni, play an ever critical role,
both as health-care providers and as advocates for our medical students. Why? Because it
is the right thing to do.
In April during our Career Medical Specialties week, students listened to alumni perspectives
about what to really expect in a specific medical discipline, how to get the most out of
their medical education, and how to prepare for a graduate medical education program.
I’ve spoken to one student recently who decided to enter emergency medicine after talking
with one of our graduates. Another decided to enter family medicine after listening to
the rewarding experiences that one of our visiting graduates shared. Whether it’s on campus, at one
of our Centers for Osteopathic Research and Education, or at an annual state or national conference, our
alumni have often supplied that critical experience, conversation, or even a moment that has made a difference
in a student’s future.
Maybe you remember someone who made a difference in your career, or perhaps there was a crucial conversation
you wish you would have had with someone. It’s not difficult to be a mentor to a student, and it can
take as much–or as little–time as you have to offer. Here are nine ways you can mentor a student:
1. Provide the industry lowdown during Career Medical Specialties Week at OU-COM.
2. Congratulate the newest generation of Bobcat physicians each year during the OU-COM Alumni
Graduation Reception.
3. Introduce a student to at least one person who will help launch his or her career during the annual
AOA, OOA or ACOFP Conventions.
4. Join students for D.O. Day in Washington D.C. or at the Ohio Statehouse to discuss
issues concerning osteopathic medical education and practice.
5. Add your perspective as a practicing physician to our annual Policy Puzzle Program, which
introduces students to local, state and national health-care policy issues.
6. Join our discussion about professionalism in osteopathic medicine by participating in our
Professionalism Series for year first- and second-year students.
7. Share your passion for research during our Alumni Research Series.
8. Become a CORE clinical faculty member and have a student at your side in your office or hospital.
9. Provide financial assistance to support student travel to professional osteopathic conventions and conferences.
Give me a call. I’m happy to discuss these and other ways you can lend your support, share your gifts and
show your Ohio alumni pride to a future osteopathic physician.
Nicole Wadsworth, D.O. (‘97)
To learn more about mentoring opportunities, contact Sharon Zimmerman at zimmerms@ohio.edu or
(740) 593-0761.
34 www.oucom.ohio.edu