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Connect students with mentors
Training the next generation of visual communications professionals is a team effort, especially in the rapidly evolving media landscape where designers and graphics reporters are expected to work across multiple platforms and new devices that require design and visual content are popping up all the time. Likewise, although most viscom educators incorporate regular critiques, portfolio reviews and mentoring in student media and classes, it's increasingly important that students get feedback about their work and professional growth from as many different perspectives as possible. So, SND would like to add to the list of ways students can connect with professionals by offering a mentoring program with a formal list of requirements for mentors and mentees that will lead to a rich, inspiring and beneficial relationships.
If you know students who would like to participate or professionals who would like to sign up as mentors, please direct them to express their interest via email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Expectations for students and mentors
The program begins and ends with the SND Annual Convention, including attendance at a workshop on mentoring and development for those beginning the mentoring experience. Also included are on-the-job shadowing days, regular online portfolio critiques, and a committment by both mentors and mentees to be in monthly contact for brief "advice sessions." There is no charge to participate in this program.
How to apply to become a mentor
Individuals who wish to become mentors must apply for the opportunity by sending your name, contact information, job title, place of employment and a 100-word job description to
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. Potential mentors should also include a 500-word essay that explains why he/she would make a good mentor, including a brief synopsis of the types of issues he/she thinks are important to address with a student mentee. If there is a preference to serve as a minority mentor, please indicate that as well. Please include "MENTOR" in the subject line of your email.
Visual communications professionals from any field, including magazine design, newspaper design, Web design, information graphics reporting, illustraiton & art direction, creative PR, advertising and marketing are invited to apply.
How to apply to be connected with a professional mentor
Students who wish to be connected with a mentor must also complete an application process. Send your name, contact information, school, major and year in school, as well as a list of internships and other student media experiences completed to
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. Include a 500-word essay that focuses on what you hope to gain from the mentoring experience, including information about your areas of interest and what you hope to do after graduating. Please include "STUDENT" in the subject line of your email.
Both high school and college students are invited to apply.
After students and mentors are connected, SND will provide both with valuable resources to help facilitate a valuable relationship. Students and mentors will also be expected to submit reports about their progress every three months.