Mentoring and Advising FAQ
IU School of Medicine demonstrates an ongoing commitment to developing positive mentor relationships for medical students to support their academic and career success.
The Mentoring and Advising Program (MAP) of Indiana University School of Medicine was designed by students and faculty to assist learners during their undergraduate medical education journey. Through holistic support, undergraduate medical students have access to academic advising, career planning, self-assessment, counseling, mentoring and insights into the many career options in health care. IU School of Medicine ensures that every medical student can obtain academic counseling from individuals who have no role in making assessment or promotion decisions about them.
Students with mentors perform better as students and in their careers. Studies show that those enrolled in mentor programs:
- Are more satisfied with access to career mentoring, elective advice for scheduling and the residency application process
- Value the ongoing contact with faculty members and experienced better research opportunities
- Enjoy improved medical school performances, increased interest in research and aspirations for a better medical career
- Feel more support at a personal level and rated their overall well-being as higher
IU School of Medicine developed and empowers a leadership cabinet designed to support advisors and mentors as part of the Mentorship and Advising Program for MD students. Further, streamlined roles for advisors and mentors emphasize learner time and minimize administrative matters. Tools and resources are also available to support mentors and advisors in their work to guide medical students.
The IU School of Medicine Mentoring and Advising Program is led by Emily Walvoord, MD, Associate Dean of Student Affairs, Abigail Klemsz, MD, PhD, Assistant Dean of Student Affairs, Director of Academic Advising; and Debra Rusk, MD, Assistant Dean of Student Affairs, Director of Career Mentoring.
About Lead Advisors
Each campus has lead advisors who are assigned to MD students upon entry into the school. Lead advisors assist students in navigating the medical school experience. They talk with students about academic progress and milestones for graduation, career exploration, personal health and wellness, and connection to the school. The lead advisor is the student’s go-to resource, biggest fan and support for all they experience in med school.
Most of the lead advisors at IU School of Medicine have a background in student affairs. They have worked in various positions within colleges and universities. Explore lead advisor bios to learn more about specific individuals.
Lead advisors at IU School of Medicine are trained regularly on the medical school experience with an official training site, yearly advisor training sessions, and monthly statewide meetings and trainings, and through other professional development opportunities.
The site contains information about the four pillars of MAP: Academic Advising, Career Mentoring, Connection and Wellness.
About Career Mentors
Contacts in each IU School of Medicine academic department are available to help students better engage with the various medical specialties and apply for residency with real-world insight. Request a mentor for the specialty areas that you intend to pursue!
Career mentors at IU School of Medicine help guide students through career options and the residency application process.