Mentorship Program

• Share work experiences, creativity, and energy
• Serve as a professional role model
• Offer advice on academic and career goals
• Guide students as they enter the workforce and grow professionally
• Stay connected to FSPH and help shape the next generation of public health leaders
• Gain exposure to talented students as they enter the workforce
• Stay updated on current public health issues and learn current trends in the field 

• Gain access to FSPH alumni who are experienced and advanced in their careers
• Expand one's professional network
• Receive guidance while entering a career in public health
• Create lasting relationships with professionals in the field
• Get personalized attention from an experienced public health professional
• Learn new things, both personally as it pertains to career interests 

Mentorship relationships can be carried out as the mentor and mentee see fit. We encourage and recommend meeting virtually at least once a month, by phone, via Skype/Zoom, by email, etc. 

Mentorship pairs will be expected to meet a minimum of three times throughout the academic year. Mentorship pairs will also be invited to attend (virtually) various UCLA Fielding and UCLA events throughout the year. Program resources include a monthly email with discussion topics and other resources to guide you throughout the year.

FSPH Mentorship program provides an opportunity for students to not only gain meaningful relationships, but also develop professional networks and lay the foundation for their future public health career. As such, alumni and students are expected to act professionally throughout the entirety of the program. Mentors and mentees will be asked in the application to agree to engage with participants according to the True Bruin Values and Principles of Community.

True Bruin Values

Respect 

I will respect the rights and dignity of others.

Accountability

I will be accountable as an individual and member of this community for my ethical conduct.

Integrity

I will conduct myself with integrity in my dealings with and on behalf of the University.

Service

I will make an impact in our global community through public service.

Violation of the above requirements may result in removal from the program or other actions.

Please consider the following as you engage with your mentor/mentee:

Mentor Dos

• Commit to and meet with your mentee regularly
• Respond to your mentee within two days of an email or phone call
• Discover who your mentee is as a person and his/her goals
• Jointly set goals and clear expectations of the mentor/mentor relationship
• Guide, encourage, and support your mentee in their academic and professional life
• Be a role model, share experiences and demonstrate personal integrity
• Make relevant introductions and suggestions for your mentee
• Be available to your mentee in-between meetings

Mentor Don’ts

• Expect your mentee to work for you
• Take over and do what the mentee should be doing themselves
• Use a sense of obligation to influence the mentee’s professional decisions
• Attempt to force a mentee in one direction or another
• Assume the role of problem solver for the mentee
• Engage in inappropriate behavior with your mentee

Mentee Dos

• Initiate and schedule discussions with your mentor regularly
• Prepare in advance of meetings and follow up in a timely manner after meetings
• Set goals and clear expectations of the relationship with your mentor
• Be honest and share a true self-assessment of who you are and your goals
• Take full advantage of the introductions, services and assistance offered by your mentor
• Follow up after any introductions or connections have been made by your mentor
• Thank your mentor for their time and dedication to your career growth

Mentee Don’ts

• Expect your mentor to hire you or find you a job
• Expect your mentor to initiate contact, you are responsible for reaching out and initiating the relationship
• Ask for advice on everything
• Cancel meetings and/or visits at the last minute
• Assume your mentor can help solve personal and/or professional problems 

Violation of the above requirements may result in removal from the program or other actions.

The application process for the 2022-2023 academic year is now closed. Please check back for application information for 2023-2024.

Access frequently asked questions about the program.

Report any issues or conflicts you have that you are not able to resolve. See separate contacts below for mentors and mentees. Although we may not be able to resolve your conflict, we will provide resources and contacts to help.

UCLA Fielding Contact

Janet Hung
jhung@ph.ucla.edu

UCLA Title IX Office

If you feel uncomfortable at any time during the program, report issues of sexual violence or sexual harassment to the UCLA Title IX Office.

Office of Ombuds Services

The Office of Ombuds Services helps members of the UCLA community resolve conflicts, disputes or complaints on an informal basis. The office is independent, neutral, and confidential.

UCLA Student Conduct Code

Please note that the UCLA Student Conduct Code applies to all students enrolled in the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. Click here for more information.