Mentoring the next generation @ SPINES

When talking about what I do, one of the questions I get most often is: what is science diplomacy? Last week, I answered that and many other questions about my career for 19 students from underrepresented backgrounds in the sciences at the Woods Hole Marine Biological Lab (MBL) Summer Program in Neuroscience, Excellence and Success (SPINES).

For over twenty five years, SPINES has been training young scientists to become leaders for the past twenty years. Many SPINES students never considered or even heard of a career in global science policy or diplomacy. It is an intensive experience for everyone, including me. Spending a few days at the MBL allowed me to hear their stories, see the dedication and passion that drives them to become leaders in their fields and inspiration within their communities. Planning or imagining your future can feel overwhelming. It is even more so, when you are the only one or you are told that you do not belong. I know this from experience.

I’ve been told I’ve taken a non-traditional path for a scientist. It may be true, but I never fit nicely in a 'box'.?I have been fortunate to have mentors who guided and challenged me as I moved through my professional journey. I was thrilled to pay it forward. Mentoring the next generation of scientists has always been important to me. We will need the newest generation of scientists out there shaping policy and relaying the latest scientific breakthroughs. By speaking to someone who understands their situation and wants to support them, we can guide students to a path they might have never considered.

I encourage everyone to get involved in formal or informal mentorship by making themselves available for support and advice, especially to encourage students from more diverse backgrounds. As mentors, we must also encourage and create environments around us where our mentees and future generations can thrive. Simply giving our mentees time is not enough, but we also need to create a space for them.

It was an incredible experience and one I hope to repeat again in the future. A special thank you to Gerald Downes for the kind invitation, to course Director Gina Poe, and course manager Fisayo Aloba for all of their work to support students and guests.