Interested in becoming a mentor?
Mentoring motivated medical students and young trainees is a rewarding opportunity to support the next generation of radiologists while strengthening our ESHNR community.
As a mentor, you will get the chance to:
• share your enthusiasm for radiology and in particular head & neck imaging
• help students or young trainees navigate important early and first career decisions
• develop and refine your own communication and teaching skills
• build meaningful connections and a foundation for potential future collaborations
Questions to ask yourself and answer (before becoming a mentor):
• What motivates me to become a mentor in this programme?
• Which skills can I bring to the mentoring relationship?
• Which experiences (training and clinical work, training abroad, exams, research, career choices) could be helpful and/or inspiring for a mentee?
• Am I comfortable giving constructive feedback, listen to questions and share experiences about training, career choices and successful work-life balance?
• Do I have time and energy to commit to regular meetings over a six-month mentoring period?
Who can be a mentor?
We welcome applications from ESHNR members who:
• are senior radiology residents, fellows, or consultants with an interest in head and neck imaging
• are willing to devote time and attention to support a student or early-stage trainee
• value education and meaningful collaboration
Previous mentoring experience is not required. But great motivation, reliability, and a genuine interest in supporting younger colleagues are essential assets.
Qualities of a good mentor:
• approachability and a supportive manner
• willingness to share both successes and challenges during training
• being able to explain clinical and organisational aspects of a career in radiology
• being able to listen attentively and hereby encourage questions and curiosity
• reliability and accountability
• respectful and structured communication style
• being open to learn from the mentee’s perspective, ideas, and experiences
You do not need to have all the answers! Your role is to guide, encourage, and help the mentee think clearly about their training and career opportunities.
Supporting a successful mentoring relationship:
For a structured six-month mentoring period, we recommend that mentors:
• talk about and agree on mutual expectations, communication preferences, and set realistic short-term goals during the first meeting
• schedule regular virtual meetings (e.g. every 4 weeks)
• offer reflections or small tasks between the virtual meetings, where appropriate
• provide constructive and kind feedback
• respect professional boundaries and confidentiality
• periodically review together with the mentee what is working well and what could be improved in the mentoring process
• if possible – meet in person at one of the ESR or ESHNR meetings in the year of mentorship to deepen the connection and meet other mentors and mentees
How to become a mentor:
We warmly welcome motivated residents, fellows, and consultants who wish to support and guide the next generation of head and neck radiologists. Please complete the application form and briefly outline your background, interests, and motivation (including signature). Send an email including the application form to the ESHNR Office.