To What Extent Are Medical Students Benefiting From Mentoring

Background: Various medical schools have developed Mentoring Programs; however, both the mentees' and mentors' prospects have been considered in few studies. Objectives: To investigate the perceptions of mentees' and mentors' concerning their experience. Results: 67% of students (mentees) benefitted from mentoring. One to one mentoring was preferred by most students (82.5%). Only 68.6% of students had satisfactory contact with their tutors. Mostly academic and other personal problems were discussed during mentoring. Only a small number of students (18%) pronounced to have no hindrances in interacting with mentors, whereas other students blamed commitment by students (6%) / lack of interest from mentor (15%), and time limitations (24%) as obstacles. It was suggested by the students to give them the ability to select their own mentors and tackle the above constraints. Mentors' contentment and difficulties are deeply related to students' participation in the activity. The mentors believe that changes noticed in students were more related to their life concerns; for some mentors, there is no appreciation or perception of the program. Nonetheless, many mentors acknowledge the significant differences about themselves: as individuals, faculty members, and tutors. Conclusion: Attendance is essential for both the mentoring relationship and the amplification of the program. Mentors are motivated in curriculum development and teaching due to students' involvement in the activity; thus ; a virtuous circle is created, leading to benefit the whole undergraduate medical education system.