Become a CONNECT Pediatrics mentor
Guide the next generation of excellent pediatricians
Thank you for your interest in one of the most rewarding roles in all of life: mentorship!
CONNECT Pediatrics uses a 1:2 mentorship model. Each students is matched with:
- one McGovern medical student interested in pediatrics or a pediatric resident/fellow and
- one faculty member from the Department of Pediatrics
CONNECT Pediatrics can accommodate participation from 7 to 14 students each academic year, which allows for at least 1 to 2 medical students per targeted medical school. Applications are open September 1 to November 1, and there is no cost to participate. The program will launch January 5, 2027, and end January 31, 2028.
Program structure
Over the year-long program, the mentor team will be required to host a minimum of four scheduled meetings with their mentees. Mentors will be expected to initiate and facilitate these meetings. If additional meetings are desired, they are done at the discretion of the mentor team.
CONNECT Pediatrics will also host four signature webinars in the evening. Mentors are not required to attend these sessions but are expected to assist with identifying and/or organizing webinar topics based on participants’ needs and interests. (To receive credit, participants must complete all four mentor meetings and attend at least two of the four signature webinars.)
How to get involved
If you are selected to serve as a mentor, there will be a required mentor orientation you will need to attend. To express your interest, please complete the CONNECT Pediatrics Mentor Interest Form (external link). The leadership team will review and contact you with next steps no later than December 18, 2026.
FAQs
How long is the program?
The program will be over a 12-month period, beginning January 5, 2027, through January 31, 2028.
What is the time commitment?
Mentors will be expected to meet with their mentees (CONNECT Pediatrics participants) a minimum of four times during the 12-month period.
How will the mentoring meetings be held?
Since CONNECT Pediatrics participants will be from medical school across Texas, mentoring meetings will be held virtually via McGovern Medical School approved Zoom or Teams platforms.
How long will each mentoring meeting last?
The duration of each mentoring meeting is at the discretion of the mentor groups. However, the recommended time frame is 60 minutes.
What resources will be available for mentors?
Mentors will be required to attend a 30-minute virtual orientation in January 2027. In addition, mentoring guides and toolkits will be available at no charge to the mentors.
When will the signature webinars be held?
Dates are TBD but are expected to be held quarterly over the 12-month period and during the evening hours.
How long will the signature webinars last?
These sessions will last approximately 60-90 minutes.
What role will I be expected to serve in the signature webinars?
As a mentor, you will not be expected to attend these sessions. However, you will be expected to contribute to the conception and/or organization of the event.
Are there any other expectations of mentors?
Yes, a part of your agreement to participate, you will be expected to complete pre- and post-surveys.
What are the benefits of serving as a mentor?
Benefits include:
- Contribute to strengthening the pediatric workforce in Texas
- Develop mentorship and leadership skills
- Expand your educational portfolio/CV
- Network with faculty and trainees across the state
- Support students with limited access to pediatric mentorship
Contact us
For additional questions regarding CONNECT Pediatrics or the Department of Pediatrics at McGovern Medical School, please email [email protected].
Â