Samanta Lal, MS RDH is a Site Director with Kaiser Permanente. She shares her insights as a mentee in the CAHL Formal Mentor Program.
Describe your CAHL cohort experience
“This was my first time participating in the CAHL Formal Mentor Program. My mentor, Corina Clark, was phenomenal! Through our candid conversations, I gained invaluable insights into navigating challenging situations with a fresh perspective. She taught me to approach problem-solving and strategic conversations differently, allowing me to see challenges through a new lens. I am deeply grateful for her willingness to share her knowledge and experiences, which significantly enriched my professional growth.”
What professional career advice were you given that resonated the best that had the most influential impact on your career journey?
“One of the most impactful lessons from my mentor was the importance of mastering strategic conversations and effectively engaging with high-level influencers to advance initiatives. We practiced various scenarios, exploring different approaches to achieve desired outcomes. This process helped me step out of my comfort zone and adopt new strategies that I wouldn’t have considered otherwise. The trust and encouragement from my mentor gave me the confidence to implement these approaches, which led to successful results.”
Was a blind spot discovered in your leadership strategy that your Mentor helped you identify and provide guidance to overcome?
“My Mentor and I discussed topics that helped me in my leadership approach. It was refreshing to have an unfamiliar perspective and try things differently and to have someone to bounce off ideas. I learned how to own conversations, particularly in decision-making processes, and provided actionable guidance to help me refine my leadership strategy.”
How have your career aspirations progressed since the CAHL Mentor Program?
“Mentoring has helped me in addressing situations I previously avoided or found uncomfortable. With the tools and strategies I’ve learned, I feel more equipped to navigate complex dynamics at work. I’m excited to continue applying these insights and look forward to further developing my skills and leadership capabilities.”
What advice would you provide to others interested in participating in the CAHL Mentor Program, and what benefits would you highlight?
“Take the leap—sign up, be vulnerable, and commit fully to the process! Whether you’re a mentee seeking growth or a mentor passionate about shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders, this program provides an invaluable opportunity for professional development and meaningful connections.”