Throughout my scientific training, I was advised by peers and career counselors to seek guidance from multiple mentors to help navigate my path. As a self-conscious Black woman in a predominantly white field and institution, I initially felt intimidated and filled with self-doubt. I was embarrassed by how much I didn't know and didn't feel comfortable asking for help when I wasn't even sure what I needed.
However, during my second year of grad school, I realized I needed guidance and support from experienced individuals. Despite my fears, I reached out to people I admired and respected, embracing the potential awkwardness of these interactions. Although some of the responses were discouraging, I persevered and eventually established a network of mentors that helped me reach my career goals.
Through my experiences, I learned some valuable lessons about building a successful network of mentors:
Cast a wide net: I found it helpful to email people who had inspiring jobs, ran labs I admired, or worked in companies I was interested in. Although not everyone responded, many did, leading to numerous informational interviews that helped me identify my ideal job.
Get to the point: I learned to be concise and clear in my emails. I included the what, the ask, and the when - for example, a 30-minute meeting to talk about X, offering three or four specific times. This approach encouraged a quick, positive response.
Consider the context: I had a senior faculty member say no to my request to serve as my departmental adviser without explanation, leaving me feeling confused and unsure if I had done something wrong. Later, I realized that the person was likely already planning to move institutions and knew that agreeing to be my adviser would have set me up for failure. It is important to remember that everyone has their own affairs, perspective, and concerns.
Come prepared: I found it helpful to come to every conversation with a list of at least 10 questions, arranged in categories such as shared experiences, career goals, and advice. Being prepared helped me utilize these meetings wisely and respect other people's time.
In summary, building a network of mentors is intimidating, especially for those who feel self-conscious or unsure of themselves. However, with persistence and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone, it is possible to establish meaningful connections with experienced individuals who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your career path.