Mentor–Mentee Relationship: Otolaryngologists Weight in on Young Physicians’ Career Plans

Once again, the solution to this challenge rested in collaboration. This time, Zach Soler, MD, an academic rhinologist in South Carolina and my mentee of many years, had gone on to do “our” sabbatical. His critical thinking and additional research training and skill acquisition after his time with me allowed for my “senior” credibility at the NIH to merge with his “junior” fresh and innovative skill set for successful funding of OUR clinical research program! This resulted in Zach’s first R01!

As a mentor, never underestimate the opportunity to be reverse-mentored by one of your mentees. This has been one of the most surprising and satisfying experiences of my career. Thank you, Zach!