The Power of Representation and Mentorship — in conversation with Steven Maurice Clark
The role of mentorship and the essence of representation in guiding and supporting individuals on their journey are vital to foster the confidence and resilience needed to pursue ambitious goals. By helping individuals navigate challenges and make informed decisions, mentors play a crucial role by serving as a valuable resource, providing advice, insights, and a tangible connection to the desired career path. The power of representation and mentorship becomes a beacon of encouragement, demonstrating that regardless of background or familial precedent, one can aspire to and achieve success in their chose field.
As an esteemed bariatric surgeon in the medical field and a distinguished general with over 25 years of experience in the United States Army Medical Corps, Steven Maurice Clark provided his insight on the power of representation and mentorship.
Here is what Steven had to say –
If a child can see herself in a position that no one in her family has ever reached, that’s proof of a real possibility that she can follow that dream. In the common situation where a student has no family members that have gone down this career path or have even attended a four-year university, seeing an individual who has, who can mentor you and give you advice, can make the possibility of becoming a doctor feel far more attainable. A mentor helps put a face on a career.
As a mentor myself, I help youths navigate their way towards medical school, such as by helping them decide on which extracurriculars will help prepare them the most and guiding them to engage in long-term thinking. It’s striking to me that the majority of African American physicians come from HBCUs, even though many attain PWIs — this demonstrates how representation and an adequate support system help students navigate the complicated path towards their dream career.
Thank you for your insight, Steven.
Connect with Steven on LinkedIn.
