Assignment 1: Preparing for Mentorship

When walking into a new job or internship, there are key components that you must possess in order to set a positive tone for yourself. Reflecting back on the First Impressions Podcast and Knowing Your Mentor Handout, both pieces highlighted components that are imperative to an internship. From the podcast, two key components mentioned was having a positive attitude and to not be afraid to ask questions. A positive attitude allows you to work efficiently with minimal errors and within a shorter time period. Additionally, your attitude can be reflected physically with a smile and a salutations. This shows that you are delighted to work with hard working people, and it creates an uplifting and warm environment. When starting something new, it is imperative that you ask questions, because you will better understand your task. If you do not ask questions, there are chances that you will complete your task incorrectly and delay other people's work. In addition to a positive attitude and asking questions, Knowing Your Mentor Handout included additional key components you must possess, such as punctuality, appropriate attire, and firm handshakes. Punctuality shows responsibility and respect for other people's time. If you are always on time then your mentor will view you as a mature adult, who is capable of greater responsibilties. As a rule of thumb, you should arrive 5 to 10 minutes before your start time in order to organize and get everything you need, but if you know that you will be arriving late, call your mentor to notify about your arrival and give an estimate time as to when they should be expecting you. Once you arrive on time to your internship, you should be in appropriate attire, because you do not want to walk in and be sent back home. Depending on where you are interning, appropriate attire may mean scrubs and slip proof shoes or business casual. No matter what, always ask your mentor if your attire follows clothing guidelines, because you may be dealing with chemicals that can burn holes in certain material or you may be going into an important meeting, which may require a blazer and dress pants. Out of the five key components gained from both pieces, a firm handshake gives the best first impressions. When offering a handshake use your right hand and firmly hold, while giving the person eye contact and a smile. This will show that you respect the person and that you are open to talking to other people.

Throughout my mentorship I envision gaining knowledge and experience of what it is like to work in the healthcare system. I also hope to form connections with my mentor and others working with me and to attain better people skills, such as communication and patience. To ensure that I get the most from my experience, I will be proactive and fully devote myself to my mentorship. I plan on asking multiple questions and taking in every advice my mentor gives me. Overall I strongly feel that this is preparing me for my future by advancing my position and allowing me to stand out from others, who are competing for the same job. This will lay out steps into choosing the right college and what I need to accomplish to reach my goal of impacting the healthcare system.