Interview by Katie Stinson
Dr. Muhammad Waseem, Lincoln Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Research Director
How did you get involved with NRMN?
I attended the following workshops in February 2018: Optimizing the Practice of Mentoring; and How to be an Effective Research Mentor.
Describe your role in mentoring and tell us a little about your experience in that role.
I served as a mentor to a pediatrician and worked closely to provide guidance in conducting and successfully completing a research project.
Have you participated in other similar programs in the past? If so, how was your experience with NRMN different or unique?
This program is unique as I provide guidance on how to effectively provide mentoring.
If someone called you and asked, “Why should I become involved with NRMN?” how would you respond?
I believe this is our responsibility to convey our skills and knowledge to the next generation.
How has your experience with NRMN changed the way you approach your career in the sciences?
I learned how to help my mentee to put their education and career pieces together.
What makes you an ideal mentor?
As a mentor, I take special interest in ensuring the professional growth of my mentees while maintaining mutual respect, trust, understanding, and empathy. I do understand mentees’ needs and try my best to assess, accept, and respect the goals and interests of my mentees. If this is done properly, the next generation can in turn become mentors themselves, continuing important work for many years to come.
Each morning, what do you look most forward to in the day?
I want to make sure every day there is some process in the project.
Is there anything you’d like to share about yourself with a potential future mentee?
I look for 2 qualities in mentees: 1) Honesty; 2) Dedication and Motivation
What is your current position?
Research Director, Department of Emergency Medicine
