MODEL Lead Showcase

Featuring Minjoung Go, MD

September 23, 2024

The MODEL (Mentorship, Opportunity, Development, Empowerment, Leadership) Program, initiated by the Department of Medicine (DoM), is a department-wide, cross-divisional, mentoring and development program designed to meet the unique needs of the CE and UML faculty lines. 

Launched in January 2024, MODEL is championing a dynamic new mentoring culture across the department.

This September, we are pleased to spotlight MODEL Lead Minjoung Go, MD. In addition to her dedicated work as a MODEL Lead, she is a clinical associate professor of medicine with a clinical focus in internal medicine and hospital medicine 

Describe your mentoring style. What do you think are the most important attributes of a good mentor?

For me, being a mentor means creating a safe space for mentees to share and discuss openly. Active listening, trust, and understanding of individual needs are key. A good mentor shows patience, empathy, and reliability and offers constructive feedback while building trust to foster a successful mentoring relationship.

Who was your most influential mentor, and what was the most important lesson you took away from that relationship?

My most influential mentor was a principal investigator I worked with after college. The most important lesson I learned from her was the value of resilience. She taught me that setbacks and failures are part of any career, but perseverance and a positive attitude can transform those challenges into learning opportunities. This lesson has been invaluable in every aspect of my professional journey.

Why do you think it is important to establish and promote a culture of mentorship within the DoM? I.e., what might that look like when we are successful?

Creating and nurturing a culture of mentorship is crucial for helping us grow personally and professionally and finding fulfillment in our work. Once we wholeheartedly embrace this culture, I am confident that we will see increased enthusiasm and contentment among our faculty and staff, more collaboration, and a real sense of community where everyone feels supported in their professional and personal development.

Share a moment or experience in the MODEL program that significantly impacted you/was memorable.

One memorable experience in the MODEL program was the first meeting with mentees, where we shared our reasons for pursuing a career in medicine. Seeing their enthusiasm and dedication was truly moving and inspirational. Interacting with such incredible mentees has been fulfilling and enriching. I feel honored to support these amazing and inspiring individuals.

Where do you find the most joy in your work with the MODEL program?

Engaging in mentoring experiences has not only been rewarding but has also helped me grow as an individual. It has been a humbling experience to guide and support others on their professional journeys while learning from their unique perspectives and experiences.

Being a mentor means creating a safe space for mentees to share and discuss openly.

– Minjoung Go, MD

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