The Scavenger Hunt: An Educational Technique for Preceptors and Athletic Training Students

Abstract

Context Entry-level athletic trainers (ATs) often lack tools necessary to help build confidence and professional networks, especially if they are the only clinicians in their facility. One-way athletic training education can help is to encourage preceptors to assist in mentoring athletic training students (ATSs) as they navigate the shift from student to AT. Objective To describe 1 educational technique developed by a preceptor that showcases effective mentoring, networking, volunteer opportunities, and communication. Background Mentorship is important for all entry-level ATs. By providing opportunities before graduation and assisting ATSs in learning how to network and communicate with potential mentors, future ATs can then continue the mentoring pipeline as they accept preceptor positions. Description This activity was developed by a preceptor while the ATS was in her immersive setting. It provided the ATS an opportunity to develop networking skills while still having support from the preceptor as mentor and while also growing the number of colleagues in her network. By providing a self-discovery activity, the ATS learned how to effectively maneuver through a large conference while gaining confidence, contacts, and a better understanding of the profession. Clinical Advantage(s) The preceptor developed a mentoring relationship with the ATS while also giving her the opportunity to build connections and identify characteristics that she would like to have in future mentors. Conclusion(s) Networking is often a difficult skill for new professionals. By creating this scavenger hunt, the preceptor demonstrated effective mentoring in addition to pushing the ATS outside of her comfort zone to develop her own professional network and observe how professionals can give back to their association.