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Mentor Program Success Stories
The Bio Sci Mentor Program proves that great things happen when alumni and community professionals build mentoring relationships with Bio Sci undergraduate students. Click on the links below for the success stories of Mentors and Mentees who have participated in the Bio Sci Mentor Program.
Ed Chang and Nariman Noorzady
Ed Chang and Nariman Noorzady
Photo credit: Alicia Pentz-Lopez
One of the Program’s first success stories is the mentoring relationship between Ed Chang '84 and Nariman Noorzady '02.
In 2000, when the pair was matched, Nariman was a rising junior who had decided not to pursue a medical career and was trying to determine his career path. Over the course of two years, Ed and Nariman developed a model mentoring relationship that helped Nariman find his professional path and allowed Ed to become re-engaged with the School of Biological Sciences and a new generation of Anteaters. Since that pairing, Nariman has risen through the ranks of Opus Medical where Ed was the Co-Founder and Vice-President of Marketing. Currently, Nariman is the District Sales Manager at Cayenne Medical Inc. Cayenne is another organization founded by Ed who is also the Vice-President of Marketing. Ed and Nariman were kind enough to share their mentoring success story in a 2002 interview.
Interview with Mentor Ed Chang '84
- Bio Sci: What made you decide to become a mentor in the Bio Sci Alumni Mentor Program?
I felt that I could be a good resource for Bio Sci students considering a career in the medical device industry. During my last 20 years in the industry, I have learned a great deal about this business and how to succeed and wanted to share it with students that may have an interest in this field.
- Bio Sci: What is the most enjoyable/rewarding aspect of being a mentor?
I can challenge the thinking of the students and engage in some good conversation about their prospective careers. I like to ask them direct and probing questions that take them out of their comfort zone to help me determine their true strengths and weaknesses. Next, I like to focus on helping them recognize their strengths while at the same time begin coaching them on how to improve upon their weaknesses.
- Bio Sci: What surprised you most about being a mentor or what surprised you most about your student mentee?
It has been a gratifying experience much more than I anticipated. It is a rush to coach from the sideline and see your mentees succeed in achieving their goals in the short-term.
- Bio Sci: What would you tell other Bio Sci alumni who are thinking about participating in the Mentor Program?
If you are looking for a way to give back, I don't know of a better way that you can find than to help with the guidance and direction of a prospective graduate with his/her career.
Interview with Student Nariman Noorzady '02
- Bio Sci: What made you decide to sign-up for the Bio Sci Alumni Mentor Program?
All I really hoped to gain from the program was some reassurance that I could find a career once I graduated with a biology degree. I also wanted some direction on ways to achieve my goals, essentially hoping to find someone to turn to for advice.
- Bio Sci: What has been the most enjoyable aspect of being in the Mentor Program?
The most enjoyable aspect of being in the mentorship program is that it has led me to develop a great personal and professional relationship with Ed. Ed has really taken me under his wing and has become a truly important educator in my life. I feel very fortunate to have met a man like Ed who continually takes the time to help me develop all the skills I need to become a successful leader.
- Bio Sci: What would you tell other students who are thinking about signing up for the Mentor Program?
I would encourage any Bio Sci student to get involved with the program. The program gives students a unique opportunity to meet with UCI Bio Sci Alumni who have pursued careers in a variety of genres, from professional health to business.
- Bio Sci: Is there anything that you would like to say to alumni who are thinking about becoming mentors?
I would like to charge alumni, who have the capabilities, to become mentors. It is the best gift you can give a bright, young, aspiring student.
Marlene Godoy, D.D.S., Jaclyn Barrera, Tandis Soltani, and Tiffany Tu
Dr. Godoy, Jaclyn, Tiffany, and Tandis
Photo credit: Alyssa Cruz
Dr. Marlene Godoy has mentored students in the Bio Sci Mentor Program since 2001 and has been an immense supporter of the School of Biological Sciences. She was matched with two sophomores Jaclyn Barrera and Tiffany Tu in 2006 and continued to mentor them along with Tandis Soltani a freshman in 2007. Dr. Godoy, Jaclyn, Tiffany, and Tandis recently provided their mentoring success stories.
Interview with Mentor Marlene Godoy, D.D.S. ’76
- Bio Sci: What made you decide to become a mentor in the Bio Sci Mentor Program, and how long have you been involved?
Since its inception, I have been involved with the Program. Being a Bio Sci alumna, I understand the need for Bio Sci undergraduates to be exposed to and in contact with individuals/professionals in various fields of health sciences, research and business/industry where the students may have interests created by their Bio Sci education and the ultimate degree. Having expressed interest in the development of the Mentor Program, I felt a critical need to support it by being a mentor.
- Bio Sci: What has been the most enjoyable/rewarding aspect of being a mentor?
Participating in the development and educational experience of curious and enthusiastic students. Positively supporting and channeling the students in a forward direction to fulfill their personal, educational and career goals.
- Bio Sci: Tell us one of your favorite Mentor Program memories/experiences.
I enjoy all my meetings and conversations with my mentees. My favorite experience to date was listening to a speech given by one of my mentees at an end-of-year reception. My mentee expressed the positive influence I had on her UCI experience and the importance I had emphasized on the journey and not the destination when travelling through the college experience.
- Bio Sci: What would you tell other Bio Sci alumni and community professionals who are thinking about becoming a mentor?
When speaking to other Bio Sci alumni, to spark their participating in the Program, I remind them of what was available when we were students. How it would have been invaluable to bounce things off a person who had already been through the Bio Sci program and the process of higher education with all the ups and downs experienced by undergraduates. Having someone available to say “stay the course, all will be well” in the end would have been reassuring. It’s the journey, not necessarily the destination and with feedback and guidance the destination is attainable. Being a mentor is a very rewarding experience; it enables the mentor to view the world and current higher education through younger, enthusiastic hearts and minds. It affects the mentor’s personal development, as well as their mentees.
- Bio Sci: What advice would you give Bio Sci students that may be interested in the program?
My advice is to sign up! Individually it would be very difficult to have exposure and availability to interact with the variety of professionals in so many diverse fields. Although a student is assigned a particular mentor, it does not bar them from interacting with any other mentor in the program. It is a wonderful experience that should not be passed up!
Interview with Student Jaclyn Barrera
- Bio Sci: What made you decide to sign up for the Bio Sci Mentor Program?
After spending the majority of my freshman year adapting to all of the changes associated with moving away from home for college, I was determined to become more involved in different school activities during my second year at UCI. I knew dentistry was the field that I wanted to pursue a career in; however, I didn’t have anyone to offer advice, support, and guidance based on their first-hand experiences in the field. This program offered a great opportunity to fill that void.
- Bio Sci: How has the Mentor Program influenced or helped you?
Because of all the benefits I’ve experienced through building a strong relationship with my mentor, this program has influenced me to become a mentor to someone who is seeking the guidance I once needed. Thus, I decided to join the Anteater Mentorship Program (AMP) in which I am able to help ease the transition into college for incoming freshman by providing them with encouragement, guidance, and most importantly, friendship.
- Bio Sci: What has been the most enjoyable aspect of being in the Mentor Program?
The most enjoyable part of being in the Mentor Program is being able to build a strong relationship with my mentor. Over the past year and half that I’ve known her, she’s been an amazing role model and confidant. She’s shared her educational, professional, and personal experiences that have taught me lessons I will carry throughout my life.
- Bio Sci: What would you tell other students who are thinking about signing up for the Mentor Program?
I would highly encourage other students to join the program. Even if you don’t know what field you want to pursue, this is a great opportunity to expand your horizons and learn about all of the options available to you! And for those that know the career path they want to follow, take advantage of this chance to gain knowledge and support from people who have first-hand experience.
- Bio Sci: Is there anything you would like to say to alumni and community professionals who are thinking about becoming mentors?
I would also highly encourage alumni (and community professionals) to become mentors. This is a great opportunity to educate the future by sharing the knowledge you have gained since being a student at UCI.
Interview with Student Tandis Soltani
- Bio Sci: What made you decide to sign up for the Bio Sci Mentor Program?
Coming in as a freshman, I needed someone to give me guidance and show me the way at times. Now that my first year at UCI is almost over, I am thankful for all the help Dr. Godoy has given me. Her advice has helped me get through this year. I know that in the next years, as I come across new experiences, she will help me rise above the challenges.
- Bio Sci: How has the Mentor Program influenced or helped you?
Dr. Godoy is always there when I need someone to converse with regarding school or even life in general. She provides insightful advice and helps me find my way when I feel completely lost.
- Bio Sci: What has been the most enjoyable aspect of being in the Mentor Program?
A conversation with Dr. Godoy brightens my day.
- Bio Sci: What would you tell other students who are thinking about signing up for the Mentor Program?
Every day is a new experience and you never know when you are going to come across a problem that you cannot solve. You need someone who’s been through it all to hold your hand at times. So go ahead and sign up!
- Bio Sci: Is there anything you would like to say to alumni and community professionals who are thinking about becoming mentors?
We need your help to make our college experience richer. Become a mentor and you will surely make a difference in someone’s world.
Interview with Student Tiffany Tu
- Bio Sci: What made you decide to sign up for the Bio Sci Mentor Program?
I saw the email the Bio Sci department sent out and I thought it would be a good opportunity to learn from someone who has "been there, done that.” Often it's difficult for undergrads to network, especially with health care professionals but the Bio Sci Mentor program does a good job of bringing in wide variety of people (inside and outside the health care industry) and making them more accessible to students.
- Bio Sci: How has the Mentor Program influenced or helped you?
I've really learned a lot from my mentor. Since Dr. Godoy has retired, I don't "shadow" her, but I've learned so much more from her attitude and how she approaches life. No matter what her situation, she always tries to make the best of it. She also motivates me to do well by believing in my capabilities (instead of pointing out all the things that could go wrong), and inspires me to have a positive outlook and be proactive.
- Bio Sci: What has been the most enjoyable aspect of being in the Mentor Program?
In addition to being able to spend time with Dr. Godoy, I've really enjoyed the student-student interactions that have resulted. Last year, when I was looking for a research position, Dr. Godoy pointed me to one of her mentees, who was very eager and helpful in answering all my questions. This year, one of Dr. Godoy's new mentees is a freshman, so I was glad I had the opportunity to help welcome her to UCI, answer her questions, and fittingly--help answer questions as she looks for a research position.
- Bio Sci: What would you tell other students who are thinking about signing up for the Mentor Program?
It is definitely worth it because you can learn a lot from them (and have lots of fun while you're at it!). The Mentor Program is also an excellent opportunity to build relationships with members of the scientific community.
- Bio Sci: Is there anything you'd like to say to alumni and community professionals who are thinking about becoming mentors?
I really appreciate all those who volunteer their time for this program. It is really helpful to us as students to have someone there to guide us along our undergraduate career. Your experiences are invaluable to us and I strongly recommend you to become a mentor if you are interested.
Susan Hutchinson, M.D., Lesley Martinez and Thuy-Chung Nguyen
Thuy-Chung, Dr. Hutchinson and Lesley
Photo credit: Norma Colgan
A mentor since 2003, Dr. Susan Hutchinson has mentored several students in the Bio Sci Mentor Program and was the keynote speaker at the 2007-2008 Mentor Program Kick-Off Reception. Over the years Dr. Hutchinson has provided job shadowing to her mentees at her office in Irvine. In 2007 she was matched with Lesley Martinez and Thuy-Chung Nguyen. Dr. Hutchinson, Lesley and Thuy-Chung described their experiences in the Mentor Program.
Interview with Mentor Susan Hutchinson, M.D.
- Bio Sci: What made you decide to become a mentor in the Bio Sci Mentor Program, and how long have you been involved?
I was asked to become a Mentor by Marlene Godoy, D.D.S and I decided to since I was not locked into a major time commitment with the Mentor Program. I have been a Mentor for four years.
- Bio Sci: What has been the most enjoyable/rewarding aspect of being a mentor?
Getting caught up in the enthusiasm and dreams of the Mentees.
- Bio Sci: Tell us one of your favorite Mentor Program memories/experiences.
Meeting one of my future Mentees while getting a pedicure at Lovely Nails on campus.
- Bio Sci: What would you tell other Bio Sci alumni and community professionals who are thinking about becoming a mentor?
That it is very rewarding and not a major time commitment.
- Bio Sci: What advice would you give to Bio Sci students that may be interested in the program?
Take advantage of this wonderful program!
Interview with Student Lesley Martinez
- Bio Sci: What made you decide to sign up for the Bio Sci Mentor Program?
I heard about the program from the e-mails. I decided to do it because it sounded like it would be a wonderful opportunity to know about different areas of medicine and know how the life of a doctor is.
- Bio Sci: How has the Mentor Program influenced or helped you?
Dr. Hutchinson allowed me to visit her clinic and listen as she talks to her patients. I really like the fact that she listened to her patients carefully, caring for every single detail that they told her. I would like to be like her with my patients when I become a doctor.
- What has been the most enjoyable part of being in the Mentor Program?
Dr. Hutchinson is always willing to help us. I really liked her enthusiasm and the fact that she is always looking for opportunities for every one of her mentees.
- What would you tell other students who are thinking about signing up for the Mentor Program?
I really recommend participating in this program because it helps you to explore different areas of medicine and lets you know more about how the life of a doctor is.
- Is there anything you’d like to say to alumni and community professionals who are thinking about becoming mentors?
Please become a mentor so that other people like me would learn more about medicine and be really passionate about your job like Dr. Hutchinson is.
Interview with Student Thuy-Chung Nguyen
- Bio Sci: What made you decide to sign up for the Bio Sci Mentor Program?
UCI has many great resources for it's students and the Bio Sci Mentor Program is a prefect example of one. When I first learned of the program, I thought it would wonderful opportunity to explore and get a better idea of what I might want to do with my Bio degree. A mentor would be a great person to guide, give advice, and support me so that I can achieve my goal.
- Bio Sci: How has the Mentor Program influenced or helped you?
It's given me a better idea of what I will be getting myself into in terms of my choice of career. I know that I want to become a doctor one day, but aside from the dreaded MCAT, the impossible grades to you need to get into a good medical school, and the sacrifice of practically 10 years of my life, I know nothing about becoming a doctor nor what the responsibilities of taking care of a patient is really like. After spending sometime with Dr. Hutchinson at her practice, I now know that I won't be questioning my choice of career half way through medical school. Dr. Hutchinson has made sure that I know all the aspects of being a doctor, both the patient interaction and the headaches of dealing with paperwork.
- Bio Sci: What has been the most enjoyable aspect of being in the Mentor Program?
I would say meeting with my mentor and getting to know her as a person. The mentors of the Bio Sci are wonderful individuals who are very knowledgeable in their profession as well as life in general. Hanging out with her is always fun, whether we talk about what's it's like being a doctor or random things that has nothing to do with school or jobs.
- Bio Sci: What would you tell other students who are thinking about signing up for the Mentor Program?
The Mentor Program has a wide variety of mentors from different careers with a biology degree. If you don't know what you are going to do with your Bio degree after college (and even if you do), the Mentor Program is like a behind-the-scene exclusive of the profession in which you want (or think that you want) to go. But as with anything, what you get is what you put into it. The mentors are all wonderful people. They love what they do and are great at it. They don't bite, and most importantly, they'll be an invaluable addition to your support group.
- Bio Sci: Is there anything you’d like to say to alumni and community professionals who are thinking about becoming mentors?
Don't hesitate!
* I don't know how to answer the last question. Being a mentor, to me, doesn't seem like a job, but rather an opportunity to share with an eager mind what you love to do.
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