Continuous mentoring of medical students provides space for reflection and awareness of their own development

The aim of the study was to increase understanding of the meaning of continuous group and individual mentoring for medical students personal and professional development. Methods: A qualitative approach with individual student interviews and directed content analysis was chosen to investigate and interpret the meaning of mentorship. Results: Five themes emerged: psychosocial support by the mentor, a relationship with a physician beneath the professional surface, space for something else, awareness of ones own development and reflection and learning with peers. The mentorship created a space where one could talk about 'the other things'. The relationship with the mentor was more personal than relations to teachers or supervisors.