Author: Andrei Bilog M.Sc., CAPM

I’m excited to be speaking to the SACNAS (Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science) chapter at Cal Poly Pomona on November 4th.

SACNAS is a vital national organization dedicated to fostering the success of historically excluded populations in STEM. That mission aligns perfectly with the goal of the UPkeeping Newsletter: bridging the gap between education and the workplace.

The theme of my talk? One critical, often underutilized resource: mentorship. For students and early-career professionals in the healthcare, biotech, and education spaces, having a mentor isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a game-changer for career readiness and mindset development.

What exactly makes a great mentorship? It goes far beyond simply asking for a job lead or getting a resume review. In the context of a supportive organization like SACNAS, mentorship provides a crucial layer of support and validation.

For students from underrepresented backgrounds, mentorship often means connecting with someone who understands the unique challenges of navigating a field that may not have been built with them in mind. A mentor can validate your experiences, offer perspective on imposter syndrome, and reinforce the powerful SACNAS motto: "bring your whole self to STEM." This cultural and ethnic affirmation is key to persistence and wellness.

Formal education teaches you the science, but a mentor teaches you the "hidden curriculum" of a profession. They can demystify complex career paths, help you translate your research skills into industry value, and provide personalized guidance on topics like:

True mentorship is a two-way street. Mentors gain fresh perspective and strong leadership skills, while mentees gain essential guidance. This model, which SACNAS champions through initiatives like its SACRED Mentoring Program, creates a powerful, self-sustaining community where today's mentees become tomorrow's mentors—a beautiful ripple effect of support.

Whether you’re a student looking for a guide or a professional ready to give back, here are three actionable steps you can take today to build a powerful mentorship network:

Don't just look for "a mentor." Identify what you need right now. Do you need help with research methodologies? Are you deciding between a PhD and industry? The more specific your need, the easier it will be to find the right person and articulate the value of the relationship.

Organizations like the Cal Poly Pomona SACNAS chapter are goldmines for connection. Attend their professional development workshops and networking events—or even better, join us on November 4th! These spaces are intentionally designed to foster high-quality, relevant connections that transcend a simple LinkedIn request. Ask insightful questions about their career journey, not just their job title.

A mentor is an investment in your future, so treat their time with respect. Always come to a meeting prepared with a concise agenda and specific questions. Follow up with gratitude and a brief summary of how you plan to implement their advice. This demonstrates professionalism and makes the mentor-mentee relationship both rewarding and sustainable.

Mentorship is the connective tissue that turns abstract career dreams into concrete reality. For the future leaders at Cal Poly Pomona and across the UPkeeping community, remember that your identity is your strength. Find a mentor who sees that strength, and in turn, commit to becoming a mentor who uplifts others. By focusing on connection, community, and continuous growth, we can collectively ensure that the future of healthcare, biotech, and education is as diverse and dynamic as the world we serve.