Mentorship Program Participation Policies

Shared Responsibility

Mentorship is a professional commitment. Because program capacity is limited, every participant is expected to actively engage throughout the program. An inactive participant occupies a mentorship opportunity that could benefit another AMA Baltimore member.

Successful mentoring relationships depend on mutual respect, timely communication, preparation, and follow-through. Both mentors and mentees are expected to honor the commitments outlined below.

1. Match Engagement

• The 14-Day Kickoff Rule: the mentoring relationship should begin immediately after the match is announced.
• Mentee Responsibility: contact your mentor within 5 business days to introduce yourself and schedule the first meeting.
• Mentor Responsibility: respond within 3 business days, even if only to acknowledge receipt and coordinate schedules.
• First Meeting: hold the initial meeting within 14 days of the match announcement.

2. Participation Expectations

Both mentor and mentee are responsible for maintaining an active and productive relationship.

• Agree on a regular meeting schedule (weekly, biweekly, or monthly).
• Arrive on time for all meetings.
• Come prepared with discussion topics or an agenda.
• Communicate promptly when circumstances affect your availability.

3. Schedule Changes

When a meeting must be rescheduled:

• Provide at least 24 hours’ notice whenever possible.
• Notify your mentorship partner using your agreed-upon communication method.
• The person canceling the meeting is responsible for proposing two alternative meeting times within the same or following week.

4. No-Show Policy

A no-show occurs when a participant misses a scheduled meeting without notice or cancels less than one hour before the meeting without a valid reason.

First No-Show

• The attending participant should check in, express concern, and request that the meeting be rescheduled.
• The absent participant is expected to respond promptly with an explanation and a new meeting date.

Second No-Show

• The attending participant should notify the AMA Baltimore MC Committee after attempting to reconnect.
• The MC Committee will monitor the match and may contact the absent participant

Third No-Show

Three unexcused no-shows account for 50% of the six (6) required MC meetings. Participants are asked to withdraw from active participation in the program and to immediately notify the MC Committee via email of the withdrawal.

The committee will:

• End the mentorship match.
• Remove the inactive participant from the program.
• Rematch the active participant whenever possible or provide a refund if a replacement match cannot be made.

Professional Accountability

Participation in the AMA Baltimore Mentorship Program is voluntary. By accepting a mentorship match, both mentors and mentees commit to communicating professionally, honoring scheduled meetings, and remaining actively engaged throughout the program. Consistent communication and personal accountability ensure every participant has the opportunity for a meaningful and successful mentoring experience.