Resident Paying it Forward Through Mentoring

By Abbey Goodyear, MD

Reflecting on my journey through medical school, I vividly recall the times I felt uncertain about the next steps toward becoming a radiologist. I had countless questions: What does a typical day in the life of a radiologist entail? How does patient care unfold from a radiologist’s perspective? What is it like to balance parenthood with a career in radiology?

I owe much of my progress to the remarkable guidance and support I received from my faculty mentors, the radiologists I shadowed, and the inspiring network of women I connected with through the American Association for Women Radiologists (AAWR). Their invaluable insights have been instrumental in shaping my path, and I can confidently say that I wouldn’t be the diagnostic radiology resident I am today without their encouragement.

This commitment to mentorship continues to guide my journey. I am grateful for the fantastic support I receive at my institution, the University of Texas Southwestern, as well as from organizations like the Texas Radiological Society (TRS) and the AAWR.

This is why I embrace every mentorship opportunity that comes my way, whether through formal programs or informal connections. I have had the privilege of helping medical students through initiatives like the AAWR national mentorship program and the TRS. Additionally, the institutions where I trained — University of Texas Southwestern for residency and Florida State University for medical school — provide numerous opportunities to be a mentor and mentee

However, impactful mentorship doesn’t require a formal framework. Some of my most rewarding mentoring relationships have blossomed at annual conferences, via social media, or even in local coffee shops. You never know where you might encounter a future radiologist.

Consider the potential of your mentees — one of them could make significant contributions to the field of radiology, transforming our practice in ways we can only imagine. Being part of their journey is an incredibly fulfilling experience. Let’s continue to pay it forward through mentorship!

Dr. Goodyear is an R4 at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and chair of the Texas Radiological Society Resident/Fellow Section. She can be found on X @Abbey Goodyear.