Thank you for volunteering!
We are so grateful for your willingness to support our students. These brief yet impactful conversations enable students to hear real-world perspectives and explore various specialties in a low-pressure, meaningful way. Please review the following information to ensure a successful session.
Your role as a career chat mentor
As a UF College of Medicine alum, your insights are incredibly valuable. In your 30-minute session, we encourage you to:
- Share your path from medical school to where you are now.
- Talk about what a typical day looks like in your specialty.
- Offer advice on navigating residency, fellowships, or transitions.
- Be honest about the rewards and challenges of your field.
- Ask students open-ended questions about their interests.
- Listen with curiosity and offer encouragement.
These are informal, student-led conversations—no preparation required, just your lived experience and willingness to connect.
Conversation tips & starters
Here are a few questions you can answer to help guide the discussion:
- Why did you choose your specialty, and what would you choose again (or differently)?
- How did you make decisions during med school and residency?
- What’s one thing you wish you had known as a student?
- What skills, clinical or personal, have helped you thrive?
- Share a challenge or “real moment” from your journey.
- Ask students:
- What interests you about this field?
- What are you unsure or curious about right now?
Remember: This is just the start. If both you and the student are open to it, you’re welcome to continue the conversation afterward through the UF Gator Network, email, or LinkedIn.
Be mindful
We encourage all mentors to approach these conversations with openness and respect. It’s helpful to reflect on how our personal experiences may shape our interactions. The best moments of mentoring often happen when we’re willing to listen, learn, and acknowledge that our paths are all unique.
Student Well-being
If, during your conversation, a student shares something concerning their well-being or safety, please do not try to address it alone. Instead:
- Encourage the student to reach out to the UF CWC (Counseling & Wellness Center) or their college advisor
- If there is an urgent concern, you may contact UF UFPD (352) 392-1111 or notify our office so we can follow up appropriately, (352)-273-7986.
Questions or Need Support?
We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Email us at: drgator@health.ufl.edu
Learn more about the Gator Network: https://connect.ufalumni.ufl.edu/career-resources/alumninetwork
Thank you again for taking the time to give back. Your experience and insight can make all the difference for a student exploring their future in the medical field.