The topic of mentorship has been extensively studied across various disciplines, highlighting its critical importance in professional development and support systems. Here are some key insights from recent research:
1. A qualitative study on mentorship for women and minorities in surgery identified key themes such as access to mentorship, valued mentor characteristics, the role of gender and racial identity in mentor selection, and the early provision of mentorship as critical for the success of women and underrepresented minorities ([Geetha Mahendran et al.](https://dx.doi.org/10.1097/XCS.0000000000000059)).
2. Mentorship programs have been shown to enhance retention and experiences of underrepresented physicians and trainees in academic medicine, with a focus on improving research skills and diversifying representation ([Eliana Bonifacino et al.](https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11606-020-06478-7)).
3. In nursing, evidence-based practice (EBP) culture and mentorship significantly impact knowledge, beliefs, competency, job satisfaction, and retention, underscoring the role of mentorship in promoting evidence-based practice and nurse retention ([B. Melnyk et al.](https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/wvn.12524)).
4. Undergraduate research experience and quality mentorship significantly impact the scientific identity and career paths of underrepresented minorities in STEM, influencing decisions to remain in STEM fields or pursue health-related degrees ([M. Estrada et al.](https://dx.doi.org/10.1187/cbe.17-04-0066)).
5. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for mentorship programs to foster more intimate and compassionate relationships between mentors and mentees, grounded in mutual vulnerability and a concern for well-being ([Kara Lasater et al.](https://dx.doi.org/10.1108/IJMCE-11-2020-0078)).
6. Quality mentorship is identified as a key driver for enhancing research success and the recruitment and retention of underrepresented groups in STEM careers ([Kelly A. Diggs-Andrews et al.](https://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12919-021-00212-9)).
7. Sponsorship, alongside mentorship, is considered critical for career advancement in academic medicine, emphasizing the role of sponsors as career-established talent scouts providing unequivocal support ([Manasa S. Ayyala et al.](https://dx.doi.org/10.1097/ACM.0000000000002398)).
8. Mentorship is deemed essential for professional development and career success in fields like plastic surgery, particularly for underrepresented groups and junior surgeons, offering benefits such as higher job satisfaction and academic productivity ([P. Myers et al.](https://dx.doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000008295)).
These studies reflect the multifaceted role of mentorship across different professional fields, emphasizing its importance in supporting career development, fostering diversity, and enhancing job satisfaction and retention.