'Off the Clock' with Shayna Kulman-Lipsey, Mentor and Manager of Counselling Services

What is your name and position? How many years have you worked at U of T?

My name is Shayna Kulman-Lipsey and I am the Manager of Counselling Services in the Office of Health Professions Student Affairs, based in the Faculty of Medicine. I have been at U of T for four years.

What do you do ‘Off the Clock'?

I mentor students in the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, which recently presented me with the Outstanding Alumni Mentor Award.

How did you become involved in mentoring students in the Faculty of Social Work?

I was approached by Terry Gardiner, Student Life, Outreach & Equity Advisor in Social Work, who I met at a meeting. I am an alumnus of the Faculty.

What’s the key to a great mentoring relationship?

I think the key to a great mentoring relationship is the collaboration between the mentee and mentor. I think it is important for the mentee to know what they are looking for from the relationship and engage with a mentor who is able to provide this.

How does being a mentor inspire or influence your work?  

I did both my undergraduate and graduate degrees at U of T. I feel honoured to be able to give back to the students, and the institution that was the foundation for my career. It’s been a great path and it is exciting to share that enthusiasm with those entering the profession. 

Suggested by Effie Slapnicar, Manager of Business and Administration, Undergraduate Medical Education in the Faculty of Medicine.