CBE’s Mentor Program helps students grow in their chosen field through one-on-one guidance, advice, and insight from a professional mentor. Mentoring pairs discuss student career goals and interests and then work together to pursue those goals through career exploration, networking, and professional skill development.
Program overview
Mentorship is a process in which an experienced individual helps another person develop their goals and skills through on-going, supportive conversations and learning exercises.
The mission of the CBE Mentor Program is to assist students in making a successful and informed transition from college to career, preferably in their field of interest. The program aspires to provide a mentor to every CBE student wanting guidance from a CBE graduate and/or industry professional.
Student eligibility
The following CBE departments participate the CBE Mentor Program:
- Architecture (all undergraduate and graduate degree programs)
- Urban Design and Planning (all undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including CEP and online MIPM)
- Construction Management (pre-majors; all undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including online MS CM)
- Landscape Architecture (all undergraduate and graduate degree programs)
Mentor eligibility
Mentors must have at least three years’ professional experience in the built environment professions, excluding internships and student employment. Mentors can work outside the state of Washington or internationally. Mentors do not need to be graduates of CBE.
Benefits to students
Mentorships help students transition from college to career by helping them:
- Clarify career goals and expectations
- Become more self-aware about values and strengths
- Develop job-seeking skills, industry knowledge, confidence, and accountability
- Practice inquiry and self-reflection
- Expand professional networks
- Cultivate an ally in the field
A mentorship does not guarantee a job or an internship (paid or unpaid), but it can lead to one in some cases. Under no circumstances should mentees be asked to do unpaid work.
Time commitment
The program hosts a kick-off event in mid-November, where mentors and mentees can meet for the first time. (Those unable to attend can arrange their first meeting independently). Following this event, mentor/mentee pairs meet at least once again during Autumn quarter, and at least twice each quarter in Winter and Spring. The program provides a handbook that includes topics for discussion and suggested activities. A year-end event in the spring closes out the program.
2024-2025 timeline
How to sign up
The program has opened a second application window for mentors and mentees who did not apply in early Autumn quarter. Matches will be made in mid-Winter quarter. To apply, fill out this short survey of multiple-choice questions which will help us match you with your pair partner. We will try our best to match mentors and mentees according to their preferences.
Student FAQs
Q: Can the program match me with a mentor who has a specific identity or area of expertise?
A: Yes! The sign-up process allows you to specify your preferences. The program will do its absolute best to match you with a mentor that meets your criteria.
Q: I have some constraints that would require me to work with a mentor remotely. Can you accommodate this?
Yes, remote mentorships are possible. In fact, some of our mentors work out-of-state, even internationally.
Q: I’m not sure what I would ask my mentor. Can you suggest some topics?
A: The CBE Mentor Program provides a handbook that suggests a long list of discussion topics and activities. It also helps you define your goals for the mentorship.
Q: I’m unable to attend the kick-off event in November. Can I still have a mentor?
A: Absolutely! We’ll help you connect with your mentor regardless of whether you can attend the kick-off event. We still recommend that you sign up for the program by October 30 to help us find the best match for you.
Q: I haven’t declared my major yet. Can I still have a mentor through this program?
A: Only pre-majors in Construction Management can sign up for a mentor through this program. For all other departments, mentees must be enrolled in a degree program. Some departments also coordinate peer-to-peer mentorships. Check with your degree program advisor.
Q: I’m a returning student and I really enjoyed working with my mentor from last year. Can you match me with the same mentor this year?
A: Yes, provided that your former mentor agrees to the match. Just write this preference in the last question in your application.
Mentor FAQs
Q: I live outside of the area / state / country. Can I still serve as a mentor?
A: Yes, the program welcomes mentors from across the globe. Your meetings with your mentee can take place online.
Q: I have the desire and capacity to mentor more than one student. Can you accommodate that?
A: Yes. The mentor application will give you the opportunity to request more than one mentee. This can be very helpful to the program, as student demand is high.
Q: I’m a returning mentor and I really enjoyed working with my mentee from last year. The student is returning to CBE this year. Can you match me with the same mentee?
A: Yes, provided that your former mentee agrees to the match. Just write this preference in the last question in your application.
Further questions from students or mentors
Contact Program Manager Teri Thomson Randall at cbementor@uw.edu