174 Career Mentorship in Clinical Research Pathways in Medicine: UCLA Mentorship and Advocacy in Teaching Clinical Health-Related Research (MATCH) Program

Abstract

Objectives/Goals: To assess the impact of the MATCH Program on mentees and mentors over the years, we have surveyed both groups on the effectiveness of the mentorship process, how the MATCH program influenced mentees’ future career plans, and their ongoing interest in clinical research. Methods/Study Population: To evaluate impact on mentees and mentors in the most recent cycle, we fielded two program evaluation surveys, for mentors and mentees. The surveys were distributed and collected using Qualtrics in May 2024. The mentee survey collected data on relationship with mentors, quality of mentorship, future career/education plans, and self-assessment of the program impact. The mentor survey collected data on relationship with mentees, mentees’ engagement, and a self-assessment of the program impact. Qualitative analysis was conducted to determine key themes expressed by participants. The responses were compared to assess the effectiveness of the mentoring relationship from both parties. Results/Anticipated Results: Respondents included 15/20 (75%) mentees and 15/20 (75%) mentors. All mentees (100%) and mentors (100%) stated they would like to continue their relationship outside of the program. The majority of mentees 13/15 (87%) and mentors 13/25 (87%) also viewed their mentee/mentor relationship to be excellent or good. Most mentors 10/15 (67%) stated it was their first time serving as a mentor for the program. Mentees also found their experience in the program very beneficial with 6/15 (40%) stating that MATCH changed their career plans. In addition, most mentees 14/15 (93%) indicated that they are community college or four-year college/university bound. Most mentees 11/15 (73%) indicated an interest in pursuing a health or medical career. Also, 10/15 (67%) mentees stated an interest in pursuing a career in research. Discussion/Significance of Impact: Both mentees and mentors have benefited from the program’s daisy chain mentoring and the program has helped facilitate a potential lifelong mentorship between mentees and mentors. The program also demonstrates promise of developing a pre-health pathway for historically underrepresented students in STEM.