MRSS Atoms Initiative – Providing Mentors for First-Year MRS Students to Initiate Networking, Support, and Engagement

Abstract

Purpose: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and potential lack of engagement within the MRS community, the Medical Radiation Sciences Society (MRSS) Atoms Initiative was proactively developed to provide the incoming first-year students with an equitable opportunity to professionally socialize and network into the MRS program. The MRSS Atoms Initiative is a mentorship cluster program, delegating upper year Medical Radiation Sciences (MRS) students to a group of first-year MRS students (stream specific; Nuclear Medicine, Radiation Therapy, and Radiological Technology) with a maximum 1:4 ratio. Methods: In September, all second- and third-year MRS students (n=188) were contacted through email and invited to take part as mentors; 28 students expressed interest, and all were selected to participate. Mentors were divided into 13 groups using random segregation techniques and the MRSS considered personal preference to enhance social aspects of each group. All mentors attended a one-hour Mentorship Workshop prior to the start of the program to ensure they had the necessary skills and resources. MRSS randomly assigned all incoming first-year students (mentees) into groups of seven to eight. The MRSS had little to no interaction with mentees prior to group assignments, which eliminated group creation bias. Groups were finalized and announced before the end of orientation week. Frequency of communication within groups was dependent on individual group dynamics and level of comfort. However, it was recommended that the mentors create group chats using their preferred platform to maintain accessible communication. The groups were also encouraged to participate in MRSS events as a team to facilitate professional relationships. To ensure all participants understood their roles and responsibilities, each group was required to submit a group charter. Lastly, a point system was incorporated into the program to motivate students to engage within the MRS community. The MRSS currently has approximately 130 students engaged in the MRSS Atoms Initiative. Results: Over the first half of the Atoms program, there was a noticeable increase in student participation within the MRS community, thereby aiding students in establishing professional relationships. Additional unforeseen benefits have been related to mental health and academics. Many mentors have directed their mentees to appropriate tutoring and counselling services at the Michener Institute and the University of Toronto. Conversely, the main observed challenge within this project was the variation in group dynamics. Some groups had increased engagement, whereas other groups had noticeably less engagement, which was evaluated through the point system. Subsequently, there were some challenges in initiating group communication due to the online platform. Conclusions: Thus far, this quality improvement project has better integrated the three streams within the MRS community, while also introducing unique collaboration opportunities with other student societies. A survey evaluating satisfaction was administered early January and the results will be presented.