Mentor or preceptor: What is the difference?

Complete-block scheduling for advanced pharmacy practice experiences

“…Although students are assigned a professional advisor in the department, block scheduling creates an ideal environment for preceptors to emerge as mentors as the year progresses. 13 Preceptors are able to help students with residency and career advice and are positioned to provide references, write letters of recommendation, and facilitate external networking.…”

Finding and working with mentors

“…A student's personal and professional development can be enhanced when a mentor provides direction and insight regarding goals, fosters self-confidence, instills professional values, lends emotional support and encouragement, and enhances networking and leadership opportunities. 2,3 Leadership is viewed as a professional obligation of all pharmacists, and mentors have an important role in motivating students to develop these skills. 1 A successful mentor-student relationship allows both participants to gain from the interaction, but the student will benefit the most.…”

“…Pairings of students with preceptors or advisors are often prearranged, whereas mentors are chosen by students. 2 Despite this difference, it is not uncommon for students to identify preceptors or advisors as their mentors. Having the chance to build and foster a close relationship with a professional expert and role model provides students with opportunities and insights that they may not have had otherwise.…”

“…The first step in successfully identifying a mentor is to think of individuals-whether they are faculty members, employers, or preceptors-whom one admires or looks up to. 2 The focus should be on finding someone who has a background of experiences and interests that aligns with the student's goals and interests. Students should look for mentors who have their best interest at heart, are easy to get along and converse with, and are understanding and supportive.…”

A Perspective on the Resident-Preceptor Bond

“…[4][5][6][7] Ultimately, the crux of residency training effectiveness is the unique interplay of resident and preceptor in experiential training -a bond or connection that serves as a basis for learning, mentoring, mutual professional growth, and leadership development. [8][9][10][11] This commentary will explore the essence and major determinants of an optimal resident-preceptor relationship as gleaned from personal experience as a resident and as a preceptor of 119 residents over a course of 50 years. It will also attempt to provide insight into the critical leadership development mandates of residency preceptors.…”