The start of the new year invites recognition of goals, praise for achievements and plans for the future. January is National Mentoring Month, a time to celebrate mentors' invaluable role in shaping careers and fostering growth. At the UCSF Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS), mentorship is more than guidance – it is a cornerstone of training, innovation and leadership. Nicole Jiam, MD, shares how mentorship has defined her academic journey as a surgeon and researcher and how she's paying it forward.
For Dr. Jiam, her mentors guided her to mastering surgical techniques, clinical decision-making and navigating the complexities of research, academic promotion and work-life balance. Their long-standing commitment and investment in her success inspired her to prioritize mentorship later in her career, recognizing its potential to shape the next generation of surgeons and scientists.
Mentees looking for that perfect mentor to guide them should approach the situation as if building a professional, long-term relationship. "In the context of academic surgery, mentees should start by being prepared and engaged," Dr. Jiam said. "Whether in the operating room, clinic, or research meetings. Show initiative by asking thoughtful questions and actively seeking feedback. Establishing trust and rapport takes time, so consistency and professionalism are key." As for those she mentors, Dr. Jiam seeks out those who are curious and prepared to learn and reflect on performance. "A strong mentee embraces feedback and shows a genuine desire to grow, both technically and intellectually," she said.
Mentorship does not come without challenges for both mentor and mentee. For mentees, it's making the most of the relationship. According to Dr. Jiam, it boils down to four main components:
- Come prepared for every interaction, whether it's a pre-op briefing, research meeting, or casual discussion about career goals.
- Set clear objectives and be proactive in seeking out opportunities for skill development.
- Reflect on feedback and follow up with mentors to demonstrate growth.
- Take advantage of their expertise for technical skills, career advice, networking, and navigating challenges.
Seek out mentors early and often," Dr. Jiam advises young academics. Don't be afraid of asking questions or seeking advice. "Confidence comes from preparation and humility, and the operating room is a place where both are critical."
Her successful career and time at UCSF OHNS have coupled with several big-picture decisions to make career moves and take advantage of available opportunities. When faced with a career-changing decision, Dr. Jiam said: "I rely on a combination of reflection, mentorship and research. I evaluate opportunities based on how they align with my professional goals, personal values and long-term vision. I also seek input from trusted colleagues and mentors who understand my field and career aspirations. Finally, I consider the impact on my ability to provide patient care, advance research and contribute to the training of future surgeons."
Watching residents and medical students grow into confident, skilled clinicians and researchers is the most rewarding part of Dr. Jiam's position. As a mentor, guiding a resident through a challenging surgical case or helping a student cultivate a meaningful research project is fulfilling and reminds her why she chose this leadership path.
Mentorship in surgery extends beyond teaching technical skills; it's about shaping the next generation of compassionate, resilient leaders. As Dr. Jiam eloquently says, "Mentorship in surgery is a unique privilege... Through this, I learn from them as well, reinforcing my own growth as a clinician and educator."
As we celebrate National Mentoring Month, UCSF OHNS honors mentors like Dr. Nicole Jiam, whose dedication inspires excellence in otolaryngology.
