Q. What made you interested in spinal surgery? Were you influenced by any mentor or mentors?

Dr. Steinmetz: I have always been interested in construction and deconstruction, so to say. This interest carried into medical school and residency. I would say the most significant drive was meeting Dr. Benzel as a fourth-year student. He was (is) able to make you feel like the most significant person in the room. He is the reason I matched at the University of New Mexico and left with him to finish my training at the Cleveland Clinic. His focus and research in biomechanics made spine surgery intellectually challenging and fun. He was not only a mentor, but someone I wanted to emulate professionally.

Q. What, in your opinion, makes a good mentor?

Dr. Steinmetz: Interest and availability. A good mentor takes the time and interest in their mentee. They should provide encouragement, support and advice. As neurosurgery is a tough job, they at times must also be a counselor. The mentor should also work to advance their mentee, encourage academic work, suggest them for publication, committee presentations, etc.