Frequently Asked Questions for HOSTS/Alumni

• What is the new HOST program?

  This short-term virtual mentorship program will consist of 1-2 virtual meetings (at minimum) between mentors and mentees for the duration of each academic semester. Additional meetings can be scheduled at the discretion of the mentors and mentees throughout the semester. This flexibility allows students and mentors the freedom to craft the experience to fit their unique needs and goals. 

• Who is eligible to become a HOST?

  Alumni must have received an MD degree from the Ohio State College of Medicine or have completed residency at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center or Nationwide Children's Hospital. They must also be a currently licensed physician and currently practicing medicine.

• How are HOST mentors and mentees matched?

  Mentors will be asked a series of questions via survey to provide an overview of their career experience and interests. To encourage student participation and initiative, medical students will be given the opportunity to self-select a mentor whose interests align with their own. Only enrolled Ohio State College of Medicine medical students will be eligible to sign-up as a mentee. Selected mentors will be notified of their matches via email by the College of Medicine Alumni Office. The Alumni Office will connect mentor and mentee pairs via email, and provide mentorship suggestions and guidelines.

• How long does the HOST program last?

  Each cohort of mentors and mentees will last for the duration of one academic semester: August – December or January – May. Mentors are welcome to participate in multiple cohorts should they wish.

• What is the time commitment to be a HOST mentor?

  This short-term virtual mentorship program will consist of 1-2 virtual meetings (at minimum) between mentors and mentees. During this meeting, mentors and mentees will determine together the cadence, length, and format of their future connections. This allows mentor and mentee pairs to create an experience that uniquely fits their needs, interests, and goals. Suggested discussion questions will be provided by the Alumni Office to facilitate this initial conversation. Additional meetings can be scheduled at the discretion of the mentors and mentees.

• How many times can I be a HOST mentor?

  As many times as you wish. New mentors and mentees will be matched at the beginning of each cohort. Each cohort lasts the duration of one academic semester: August – December or January – May.

• How is the new HOST program different from the previous program?

  The new HOST program offers a year-round mentoring opportunity for current Ohio State medical students to connect with alumni. The program can be completed in a fully virtual format, offering alumni from across the country the opportunity to participate. The new HOST program encourages student participation from any year in their medical education, not just to those students participating in residency interviews. Mentor and mentee pairs are encouraged to connect regarding a wide variety of topics, as determined by each pair. In-person meetings or visits are not required nor expected for participation in the program. The choice to meet in-person must be made mutually by both mentor and mentee at their own discretion. The Alumni Office does not hold responsibility for coordinating meetings outside of the initial, virtual connection.

• Who do I contact if I have questions about the HOST program?

  You are welcome to direct any questions to the College of Medicine Alumni Office at medalum@osumc.edu or at (614) 366-1642.