Medical students’ perceptions of mentorship in cardiothoracic surgery: A Thoracic Surgery Medical Student Association Nationwide Survey

Abstract

ObjectiveThe study objective was to explore medical students' perceptions of mentorship in cardiothoracic surgery in the United States. MethodsA voluntary, anonymous electronic survey was distributed to medical students through the Thoracic Surgery Medical Student Association. The survey included 28 questions across 4 domains: demographic information, current mentorship status, goals and qualities sought in mentorship, and self-reported barriers to mentorship. ResultsThere were 60 respondents to the survey. A total of 60% identified themselves as male and 35% as White. A total of 75% of students reported having reached out to potential mentors without receiving a response. Lack of access to a cardiothoracic surgery program/mentorship program (37%) or cardiothoracic surgery interest group at one's institution (42%) was the most frequent barrier to mentorship. Overall, 32% reported not having any mentors in cardiothoracic surgery. Students without mentors were more likely to report the lack of cardiothoracic surgery interest groups (53% vs 29%, P = .04). Female students were more likely to prefer a female mentor (48% vs 3%; P < .001). Female and non-White students reported the lack of a relatable mentor more frequently than counterparts. Empathy and commitment/attentiveness emerged as highly valued, with 54% (n = 32) rating them as “most important.” ConclusionsThere is a critical need to optimize the outreach of current mentorship programs for medical students, especially for those without access to cardiothoracic surgery departments. National organizations such as the Thoracic Surgery Medical Student Association can advocate for increased mentorship accessibility and the development of structured mentorship programs. Additionally, efforts should be made to attract more surgeons to serve as mentors and emphasize proactive engagement from students.