Mentorship has been pivotal in shaping my medical journey, providing invaluable guidance, inspiration and opportunities for growth. As a physician in training, I’ve been fortunate to have outstanding mentors in both internal medicine and ophthalmology, the two residencies I have pursued, each leaving a profound impact on my early career. Their roles have underscored the essential need for strong mentorship in the development of young physicians. In this post, I reflect on the importance of mentors, particularly during the formative stages of my career, and discuss how their influence extends beyond individual growth to the betterment of the medical field as a whole.
My journey into clinical research began at the Division of Hematology and Oncology at the American University of Beirut Medical Center. It was here that I met Dr. AT, a leading figure in hematology research, whose mentorship sparked my passion for clinical investigation. Dr. AT believed in nurturing the potential of his mentees, and I benefited immensely from his collaborative approach. Under his guidance, I not only developed technical research skills, but also learned to frame questions that drive meaningful studies. Dr. AT emphasized the importance of comprehensive research methodologies, from trial design to implementation. I had the privilege of contributing to numerous clinical trials focused on novel therapies for thalassemia, a prevalent condition in Lebanon. One of the most transformative lessons from Dr. AT was that research is more than a pursuit of knowledge — it is a means to alleviate patient suffering. His dedication to research inspired me to view my role as a physician-scientist through a broader lens: improving patient outcomes, particularly for underserved populations, by translating research findings into clinical practice.
Following my research fellowship, I pivoted to residency training in internal medicine and then ophthalmology, driven by a longstanding fascination with the visual system. During my residency years at the American University of Beirut Medical Center, I encountered a different kind of mentorship that was equally metamorphic. At present, I am an advanced anterior segment fellow at Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and this has been a pivotal step in my training. At Wilmer, I have had the privilege of learning from world-class mentors like Dr. YD, who has provided an unparalleled perspective on complex anterior segment surgeries. Dr. YD has not only honed my surgical skills, but also encouraged me to engage in clinical research, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between research and clinical practice. Under the tutelage of Dr. YD, I have delved into the intricate world of ophthalmologic surgery and the culture of rigorous academic inquiry. Dr. YD’s passion for surgical precision and patient-centered care is evident in every aspect of his teaching. He has not just focused on the technicalities of surgery; he has instilled in me the importance of compassion, communication and patient education.
The Broader Role of Mentorship in Medicine
Reflecting on my journey, it is clear that mentorship has been more than a guiding force; it has shaped my values as a physician. Mentors like Dr. AT and Dr. YD have set a high standard for academic excellence, ethical practice and compassionate care. They have also provided emotional support and professional guidance during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 Beirut port blast, events that tested my resilience as a trainee.
The mentorship model I have experienced serves as a blueprint for the broader medical community. Effective mentors not only impart clinical knowledge and skills, but also model professionalism, empathy and a commitment to lifelong learning. For young physicians, especially those pursuing rigorous specialties like ophthalmology, strong mentors can offer reassurance, provide perspective and foster a sense of belonging within the medical community. Importantly, they also play a key role in mitigating the stressors of medical training, guiding mentees through complex decision-making processes and helping them navigate career paths.
As I continue my journey, I am committed to becoming a mentor myself. I am inspired by the example set by my mentors, and hope to contribute similarly to the growth of future physicians. Whether through formal teaching, clinical supervision or collaborative research, I aim to foster an environment that encourages curiosity, resilience and a patient-first approach. Mentorship is not only about imparting knowledge; it’s about inspiring the next generation of physicians to pursue their passions with integrity and purpose. In fact, the role of mentors in the early careers of budding physicians cannot be overstated. They provide the foundation upon which medical careers are built, offering a blend of technical training, emotional support and ethical guidance. My mentors have profoundly influenced my career trajectory, reinforcing the importance of mentorship in shaping compassionate, skilled and resilient physicians. As I currently receive my subspecialty training, I carry forward the lessons learned from my mentors, with a deep sense of gratitude and a commitment to paying it forward.
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