Building Professional Identity Through Mentorship

A strong professional identity is built on competence in your profession, performance of job-related activities, and recognition as a professional by yourself and your peers. A strong professional identity can build self-efficacy, or your belief that you can accomplish your goals. As a science educator, Dr. Robinson runs programs that are designed to cultivate scientific identity in students and trainees. This presentation will explore the critical role of mentoring in developing a strong professional identity, especially for first-generation students and those experiencing imposter syndrome. You will learn practical strategies to enhance self-efficacy, overcome challenges, and support the professional growth of your mentees.

Donita L. Robinson, PhD

Professor of Psychiatry, Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies

Associate Dean for Graduate Education

University of North Carolina School of Medicine

3 key takeaways attendees will gain from your proposed session

1. Building a Strong Professional Identity: A strong professional identity is established through competence in your field, the performance of job-related tasks, and gaining recognition as a professional by both yourself and your peers. This identity is vital for fostering confidence and success in your career.

2. The Role of Mentoring: Mentoring plays a critical role in developing a strong professional identity, particularly for first-generation students and individuals dealing with imposter syndrome. A mentor’s guidance can significantly impact professional growth and the overcoming of personal challenges.

3. Enhancing Self-Efficacy and Overcoming Challenges: Practical strategies were shared to boost self-efficacy—your belief in your ability to achieve goals—and overcome obstacles. These strategies are essential for both personal development and for effectively mentoring others, especially in challenging or underrepresented situations.

Dr. Donita Robinson is a scientist and professor at UNC Chapel Hill. She runs a research lab in the UNC Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies and studies how addictive drugs such as alcohol affect decision making in the brain. Dr. Robinson also serves as Associate Dean for Graduate Education in the UNC School of Medicine, training the next generation of biomedical scientists. An empty nester, she lives in Hillsborough with her partner, a “pandemic puppy”, 2 cats and 14 chickens.

Please bring a friend or colleague to this meeting; you’ll be helping your career AND helping another woman’s success as well!