Mentorship in academia

Abstract

Purpose – The importance of mentorship in academia is discussed, and in particular the work of Timothy L. Wilson who has been instrumental for the author in this respect is described. Drawing on historical practices from academia and the arts, the purpose of this paper is to communicate why and how mentorship could be applied. Design/methodology/approach – As a conceptual paper this draws knowledge from the author's experience. Findings – The general message concerns the importance of mentorship in order to create a vibrant (and sustainable) academic community. Originality/value – The value of this paper is twofold: primarily it celebrates Timothy L. Wilson as a model to mentorship in academia, second it communicates the importance of mentorship per se.