Patricia Cristine Heyne: Mentor Q&A

For National Mentoring Month in January 2021, we asked mentors throughout the Diversity Program Consortium to respond to this brief questionnaire. The responses to these Q&As help showcase the important work mentors do every day, and highlights their creativity and dedication in revising their mentoring practices in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Read more to get acquainted with some of the mentors who work with the DPC.

Mentor Portrait: Jan. 2021 National Mentoring Month Q&A with Patricia Cristine Heyne, Ph.D.

1. Tell us a bit about your background; for example, when did you become interested in science and what was the reason? Was there a mentor who helped you on your education and/or career pathway?

I was working with underserved and neglected populations with intellectual disabilities in Brazil (1987) and I realized that exercise training was a powerful approach for their attention, behavior, and engagement. For more info, please see https://connections.cu.edu/spotlights/five-questions-patricia-heyn.

2. What is your area of research?

Brain Health, Aging, Disability, Functional Outcomes and Diversity Inclusion 

3. The past year has presented many new challenges for all of us. What are some of the challenges you have faced as a mentor or as a researcher? What were some of the solutions you found?

In order to reduce its force or neutralize the challenges, my recommendations are: 1) have an open mind; 2) be flexible; 3) be creative; and 4) compassionate—just be human.

4. Has your idea of what it means to be a mentor evolved during the past months?

Always…mentoring sciences is not static and it is a dynamic process that is always evolving based on the environments, current knowledge, and universe state of mind.

5. How have you supported your mentees during the pandemic?

Very much indeed. A good mentor is always approachable and present during the challenging times.

6. What is something valuable that your mentees have taught you?

How much I can learn from my mentees and to be always thankful for their trust and dedication.

7. Mentoring plays an important role in fostering a community in STEM. What words of encouragement can you offer to your fellow researchers and mentors?

Be patient, resilient, passionate, and never-ever give up on your dreams. They are your dreams!

8. Any other thoughts on topics not covered in this form?

The "Mentoring of Tomorrow"—some exploration about the future of mentoring sciences.

LinkedIn profile: www.linkedin.com/in/patricia-c-heyn-phd-fgsa-facrm-ab254569