Author: regcso

Life lessons I learned from my PhD mentor

by Reg So

After being accepted into a PhD program, we needed to go and find a mentor to work with. I knew I wanted to join an organic chemistry group. Part of the selection process is to listen to the different talks of the prospective mentors, and then go around and mingle with the other graduate students in the department. 

I talked to three prospective mentors about what possible projects I can work on and I decided to join Amy’s group. I like the projects she presented to me- strained heterocycles and total synthesis. I did not tell her immediately though. When I was asked about which group I would join, I would just say, “maybe Amy’s.” 

One fine morning after taking an inorganic chemistry exam, I was resting in my room when my phone rang. I heard a “Hi,” from the other line and then a pause. “This is Amy. I am writing a proposal, and I am wondering if you have decided which group you are planning to join?” “I am joining yours,” I answered in a soft tone. That point marks the beginning of my five year journey of learning organic chemistry and life lessons. Here is the part on the life lessons I have learned from her:

1. Work hard. She goes to work at 5:30 AM. On those days when we will have group meetings, she will stay up until 7:00 to 7:30 PM.

2. Pay attention to details. My sloppy work did not make the cut.

3. Give your full attention when listening to others. Whenever I have problems in the laboratory, a reaction step I need to discuss, or I need to sort something out, she gave her full attention. 

4. Be happy for others. She is one of the happiest person out there when I have done a “super” job.

5. Despite of her achievements, she is down to earth.

Here’s a summary of my life long lessons on leadership- work hard, pay attention to details, give full attention while listening to others, be happy for the achievements of others, be down to earth. Up until now, I am still learning. No one is perfect, but each of us are God’s masterpiece molded and shaped for the benefit of others.