Are you curious about topics such as work/life balance, salary negotiations, avoiding being pigeonholed and dealing with difficult clients, peers, bosses? Join us for NEXUS Year 2, pairing AIA Fellows with Emerging Professionals for a 6 month cross-generational connection.
We as an Institute are fortunate to have successful mentorship program models in a number of major populated areas (AIA Chicago’s Bridge Program and AIA New York’s Torch Program are examples). These programs have empowered many seasoned and emerging professionals by fostering symbiotic relationships between generations.
In an effort to expand beyond existing mentorship programs and reach members that are not currently connected, NEXUS strives to create an opportunity for emerging professionals in communities across the nation to connect with experienced practitioners on a fully virtual platform. Each one-on-one connection is an invaluable opportunity for both Mentees and Mentors to become more effective practitioners and better human beings navigating a complex world.
This “Call for Mentee/Mentor Applicants” is being sent to all Continental US AIA/AIAS chapters with the hope that it will quickly be forwarded via local databases to interested emerging professionals - “Mentees” (0-5 years experience) as well as Fellows/seasoned practitioners - “Mentors” (15+ years experience).
The program aims to have a class of 25-30 pairs in three - four cohorts meeting on Fridays at 1pm (est), beginning May 27, 2022 and continuing every last Friday of the Month through December. (We also plan to gather in Chicago at this year’s Conference for those of you who are attending.) Confirm your interest by emailing us to begin the registration process.
Mentors: As you consider participating, you will be encouraged to ask a lot of questions and to listen carefully to help the emerging professional benefit from your knowledge and experience.
Mentees: As you consider participating, you will be encouraged to be confident, assertive, and ready to ask a lot of questions.
The pairing process begins with “speed dating”. All participants are encouraged to be ready with their elevator pitch, which includes asking questions, uncovering aspirations, finding cultural alignments and what you hope to get out of the program.
A positive mentoring relationship can have a profound impact on one’s career. So Mentees, what’s the hesitation- sign up today! And Mentors, can you think of anything better than giving back to the profession? Join us for NEXUS 2022.
Sincerely,
The NEXUS Team