Mentoring Stories

Sujana's Mentoring Story

I have not realised the real value of mentoring when I lived in India and in Malaysia. I tried to reflect back and think hard to make sure whether I missed out on capturing any important episodes of mentoring when I lived in India and in Malaysia. It’s kind of stunning that nothing comes to my mind. I honestly think that I am pretty sure that I had role models at the personal and professional fronts but, not any real mentors. My father was my first role model. He was a medical doctor (Physician) and often questioned conventional thinking and asked for scientific facts for validation. In the Indian culture, I believe this was a huge challenge to overcome in a society that heavily relies on many rituals, traditions and customs. My first Masters course was in Agriculture and my principal supervisor was the next role model who really helped me understand the value of scientific research.

After moving to Armidale in 2006, I started thinking about PhD studies (or even possible transfer of credits as I was enrolled into a PhD program in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) and eventually enrolled into a PhD program in 2007 here at UNE. My then co-supervisor Professor Ray Cooksey (now retired; an Emeritus Professor in the Business School) not only helped me understand the personal and professional relationships in the student-supervisor arrangement but also set up fortnightly discussions in such a way that helped me realise my career interests. I particularly recall one incident when Ray took on the acting Deputy Vice Chancellor Research role but, always had time to discuss my PhD work particularly data analysis and interpretation. For me, the lesson learnt was time management and downplay of power dynamics that places a greater emphasis on relationships and people. Ray mentored me so informally that allowed me to build upon my strengths. For example, Ray introduced me to premium national management professional association (ANZAM – Australian and New Zealand Academy of Management) in my first year of PhD studies where I gave a snapshot of my PhD research work. This professional conference attendance and presentation also helped me understand the value of networking.

In the second year of my PhD studies, I was able to secure casual teaching in the Business School. I graduated with a PhD in 2010 and I also had a one year fixed-term position as a Lecturer in the Business School. However, the full time employment status did not extend to 2011. I went back to teach on a casual basis and an opportunity opened up to be involved as a research assistant in a state government (NSW) funded research project titled intentional innovation communities. This project had collaboration with the Penn State University, USA and I was introduced to Professor Ted Alter. Ted really offered unconditional support as it was my first experience to work in a research project in an international collaboration. As you are aware, teaching and research are the key parameters for securing an academic job. I was able to tick these boxes and when the position was advertised, I competed with 6 shortlisted staff (from Australia and the UK) and I was successful in securing the job. I started full time job as a Lecturer in the continuing position in the Business School at UNE in 2012. Since then, Professor Alison Sheridan offered both formal mentoring as my supervisor (then Head of School) and informal mentoring that helped to progress in my career. Lesson learnt is that mentors are givers and shy away from publicity.

I cannot close this mentoring story without thanking students that I taught every year here at UNE. Unintentional reverse mentoring also occurred over many years as I was able to pick up many key points related to western culture from students that enhanced my overall understanding of the Australian context. If I sum up, mentors can be seniors/juniors and men/women who help you realise and achieve your goals formally/informally. The power of mentoring cannot be ignored as this process offers multitude of benefits.