Mentor Match FAQs

What is Mentor Match?

Mentor Match is an AIAA service to help pair students looking for career guidance with professionals who want to help develop the next generation of aerospace leaders.

Is there a fee associated with using Mentor Matching?

Mentor Matching is a benefit of AIAA membership and is available only to members. There is no extra charge to use this resource.

How are Mentors and Mentees matched?

Members must first enroll as a Mentor or Mentee. During the enrollment process, members will select preferences for criteria, such as mentoring topics.

Once the enrollment period closes, Mentors and Mentees will be matched in accordance with their criteria as much as possible. Within a week of the enrollment period closing Mentors and Mentees will be sent each other’s contact information to start their mentorship.

How long does the mentoring relationship last?

Once the Mentor and Mentee are matched the program lasts for 3 months, wherein the Mentor and Mentee are encouraged to meet monthly for 30 minutes. After 3 months, it is up to the pair to decide if they will continue to meet with a regular cadence.

What happens if my Mentor/Mentee is behaving inappropriately?

All participants in the AIAA Mentor Match program are expected to abide by the AIAA Code of Ethics, Anti-Harassment Policy, and the Engage Terms & Conditions. Violations of these policies are taken very seriously and may result in exclusion from the program, or further action if necessary. If you experience inappropriate behavior within your mentoring relationship, please report it to AIAA staff immediately by emailing Jules O’Brien.

How do I become a Mentor?

If you are an AIAA member, visit our Mentor Match page to enroll as a Mentor during the enrollment period.

Who are the Mentees?

Mentees are other members who are seeking advice and guidance with regards to their professional development.

Can I have more than one Mentee?

Yes, when you fill out the enrollment form you will be asked to select up to how many Mentees you are willing to accept for the program. 

How do I end a mentoring relationship?

At the end of the 3-month period both Mentor and Mentee will receive an evaluation to give AIAA feedback on their experience and how to improve the Mentor Match program.  The mentorship ends at that time unless you would like to continue to meet.
If the mentoring relationship isn't working out, please kindly discuss your decision to end the relationship with your Mentee.  Please contact Jules O’Brien if you need staff support or guidance on how to handle an unsuccessful mentoring relationship.

What types of questions should I expect as a Mentor?

Mentees may have questions on what careers may align with their interests, what the best classes are to take, how to show interest to potential employers, what would make them stand out when applying for an internship, etc.

What are the expectations for participating Mentors?

We expect that you will fulfill your commitment to meet with your mentee once a month for 3 months. We expect you to respond to initial requests from Mentees in a timely manner, and that you communicate with your Mentees as agreed upon by both you and your Mentees. We expect you to conduct yourself in a professional manner and to abide by the AIAA Engage Terms & Conditions, the AIAA Code of Ethics, and the AIAA Anti-Harassment Policy.

What benefits do I receive from AIAA if I participate as a Mentor?

All Mentors are volunteers. As an active program participant, you will receive a ribbon identifying you as a Mentor and the satisfaction knowing you are single-handedly shaping the future of aerospace!

How do I become a Mentee?

AIAA members may register as a Mentee during the enrollment period.

Who are the Mentors?

Mentors are members who have volunteered their time to offer advice and guidance regarding your professional development.

Can I have more than one Mentor?

Mentees will only receive one mentor during each enrollment period but can enroll again in future enrollment periods.

What are topics I should bring up with my Mentor?

Good topics for your mentor include: what careers may align with your interests, what the best classes are to take, how to show interest to potential employers, what would make you stand out when applying for an internship, etc.

What are the expectations for participating Mentees?

We expect that you will fulfill your commitment to meet with your mentor at least once a month for 3 months. We expect you to respond to initial requests from Mentors in a timely manner, and that you communicate with your Mentor as agreed upon by both you and your Mentor. We expect you to be prepared with questions when you meet with your Mentor. We expect you to conduct yourself in a professional manner and to abide by the AIAA Engage Terms & Conditions, the AIAA Code of Ethics, and the AIAA Anti-Harassment Policy.

What if the Mentor isn’t the right “fit” for my needs?

Sometimes, regardless of the information provided, Mentors and Mentees don’t always "fit." If this happens, we suggest that you discuss your decision honestly and kindly with your Mentor; thank them for their time. Please contact Jules O’Brien if you need staff support or guidance on how to handle an unsuccessful mentoring relationship.

How can I meet with my Mentor?

It is up to you and your Mentor to decide how, when and where you want to pursue your mentoring relationship. We recommend utilizing a variety of communication methods including phone, email, and video conferencing.