BSPH Mentoring Program

Incoming BSPH students would benefit from guidance as they navigate their newfound independence and seek to grow their professional networks. Given the diversity of career trajectories for public health students, it would be particularly valuable for undergraduate students to connect with graduate students about resources to help them navigate Pitt Public Health and the transition from high school to undergraduate life. 

Description

Current MPH and MS students will mentor first-year BSPH students through a matching process. Mentors will be expected to check in with thir mentee(s) a minimum of one hour a month and attend program activities approximately once a term. Mentors and mentees will work together to establish the specifics of meeting and the mentoring relationship. Support for mentors will be available from the mentoring program directors if needed. 

Goals for bachelor's students

  • Create relationships within Pitt Public Health
  • Have a contact person to deliver guidance about course selection, research/job opportunities, and career trajectories
  • Work 1:1 with a student who is excelling academically and professionally
  • Ease transition of living in Pittsburgh and/or independently

Goals for master's students

  • Gain mentorship skills
  • Add experience to their resume
  • Create a mutually beneficial relationship
  • Increase Pitt Public Health network, particularly across departments

Prospective Timeline 

  • Spring 2022: Solicit graduate mentors; mentors and mentees complete matching survey
  • Summer 2022: Mentoring program directors match students and connect via email
  • Fall 2022: Meet-up event where students create goals for mentoring relationship and complete activity together
  • Spring 2023: Mentor/mentee activity and evaluation of goals

Student Contacts

Jennifer McCartney
BCHS MPH student
jmm511@pitt.edu

Beth L. Hoffman
BCHS PhD candidate
beth.hoffman@pitt.edu