Students

Mentoring

The OOA and AOA strongly believe that mentoring is an essential component of the learning experience for students, interns, residents and young physicians. Mentees, likewise, serve as "reverse mentors" by helping practicing physicians understand the stresses associated with osteopathic education and the ever-evolving changes in the practice of osteopathic medicine.

Most importantly, mentors provide osteopathic physicians-in-training with the support and guidance they need to become compassionate physicians, who will live and practice by the words of the Osteopathic Pledge of Commitment to:

Provide compassionate, quality care to my patients;
Partner with them to promote health;
Display integrity and professionalism throughout my career;
Advance the philosophy, practice and science of osteopathic medicine;
Continue life-long learning;
Support my profession with loyalty in action, word and deed; and
Live each day as an example of what an osteopathic physician should be.

Mentoring MondayMentoring Monday

The OOA’s mentoring program—coined Mentoring Monday—leverages modern technology to engage OU-HCOM students throughout Ohio. The interactive videoconferences delve into areas of particular interest to students like professionalism, developing a niche, alternative medical careers, strategies for a successful match and opportunities to prioritize programs with osteopathic recognition, interviewing, and work/life balance. To suggest a topic, do so here.

The OOA Board of Trustees also provides mentoring and networking opportunities through its student reception held on each OU-HCOM campus annually.

Mentor of the Year

Students, residents and fellows are invited to nominate a physician for the prestigious George L. Eckert, Jr., DO, Mentor of the Year award. Established in 2011, the award was named in memory of Dr. Eckert, a family physician from Columbus who counseled hundreds of medical students, residents, and new DOs throughout his 57 years in practice. With funding from the Osteopathic Heritage Foundations, the award carries a $1,000 donation to a charitable organization of the recipient’s choice.

Nominate your favorite mentor for the George L. Eckert, Jr., DO, Mentor of the Year Award.
Read about the Mentor of the Year recipients.