MEET MENTOR MATCH
Ready to inspire and be inspired? Welcome to the joys of the mentor-mentee relationship. Together, we have the collective power to guide and support each other along the way.
Whether you are a new graduate or shifting your focus mid-career, the right mentor or mentors can help you thrive.
Becoming a mentor is the ideal way to pass on academic values, practical advice and networking skills. The act of paying it forward promotes positivity and mutual respect in the dental hygiene community.
The right mentor is someone who has complete confidence in your abilities and has the time to promote and strengthen your potential. Many mentor-mentee relationships gradually evolve into friendships based on mutual respect, appreciation and recognition.
The mentor-mentee relationship is far from one-sided. Many mentors find having a mentee to be a rewarding experience that reminds them why they chose dental hygiene in the first place. So get out there and find your mentor match! To participate as a mentor in ADHA’s Mentor Match program, you must be an ADHA member.
Ready to find your Mentor Match as a mentor or mentee?
Already a mentor or mentee?
THE JOYS OF FINDING MENTORSHIP
As you prepare to take on your new role, you are likely feeling a mix of confidence, anxiety and excitement. Even with dental hygiene school behind you, there are a lot of technical skills to learn in addition to navigating relationships with coworkers and patients, teamwork, standards of patient care and more. Having someone in your corner to share experiences, offer support or just listen, helps you gain confidence to face the day. ADHA membership is not required for mentee participation.
Why mentorship matters:
- Professional dental hygienists have first-hand knowledge of the educational, physical and mental requirements and responsibilities of the job
- The role of the mentor is to provide professional and sometimes personal guidance (depending on the relationship)
- A working dental hygienist is in the best position to mentor you about co-worker interactions, professional conduct, standards of patient care and teamwork
- Honest feedback and valuable insights from a mentor can help you set realistic goals and help facilitate career advancement opportunities
- Mentors can also help you become more confident, independent and promote better decision-making and problem-solving skills