Science Mentorship Program
The Science Mentorship Program (SMP) facilitates peer-to-peer undergraduate mentoring opportunities by matching first- and second-year students with more experienced Science students in third year or above. Mentees shape their learning journey with support from a senior undergraduate student, and Mentors develop leadership skills while sharing their experiences and insights.
Why join the Science Mentorship Program:
The Science Mentorship Program offers both Mentors and Mentees a valuable and flexible leadership opportunity that builds peer-to-peer connections and wider community relationships. Mentor-Mentee partnerships are unique and reflective ways for junior and senior students to engage their skills, providing a space for Mentees to find advice on navigating their university experience and Mentors to make a difference for their fellow Science students. Students connect at all community levels through SMP, forging strong networks that can expand into personal, academic, and professional opportunities.
What you get out of participating:
Mentees get to:
- Connect with a mentor who can help support your learning journey and answer questions about life at UCalgary
- Attend Faculty of Science and UCalgary events to develop your academic, professional, and personal skills
- Participate in fun Science activities and events
Mentors get to:
- Build leadership and mentoring skills by supporting a first- or second-year student navigating life at UCalgary
- Connect with like-minded peers and alumni
- Participate in fun Science activities and events
Time commitment
Mentors and Mentees are expected meet once a month during the academic year. These one-on-one meetings can be set up in any way and at a frequency that works best for both the Mentors and the Mentees – they can be formal, informal, online, in-person, etc.
SMP participants can expect to commit approximately 10 hours over the course of the academic year. This includes:
- Orientation and training in fall
- Online mentorship resources
- Monthly (minimum) meetings between you and your mentee
- Attending social and professional development events
My mentor was understanding, committed and caring, and would do anything to help me. She gave me some ideas on how and where to find opportunities related to my field of study, and how to balance school with obligations.
Ajmer, 1st year mentee
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My mentee started off his first semester feeling a little uneasy and overwhelmed with university, but he gradually became more and more comfortable throughout the semester. I could see his confidence grow over time, and I was positively surprised with his swift transition into university. I can see him excelling in his degree, and I am very happy to see him getting involved in the campus community as well.
Sharon, 3rd year mentor