
Apply by January 2, 2025 to become a Conference Mentor at AAS 2025 next March!*
The AAS Conference Mentor Program connects early career Asianists with advanced scholars, teachers, and professionals to both build their professional network and seek advice and informal guidance within a structured setting.
Mentor Program Schedule
The AAS Conference Mentor Program will take place on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15 in the Hilton Columbus Downtown. The mentor space will be available from 9:00am to 5:00pm each day. Sessions will be 60 minutes in duration.
Application Requirements
Mentors will lead structured discussions with a small group. We are now accepting applications from potential mentors. The application asks for potential mentors to provide:
- A topic and/or title
- Brief outline of the session’s structure (bulleted list)
- Key takeaways (ideas, plans, documents, practice, ritual, or other action item that the mentees can take with them)
- List of optional pre-circulated materials (influential texts, useful videos, or writing samples that have been influential in your career)
Mentors will be connected with mentees in mid-late February to allow for introductions and circulation of materials.
Past topics have included:
- Getting Your Academic Career Started: Preparing for Life after Graduate School
- Publishing in Asian Studies
- Overcoming the Mid-Career Slump: Balancing Service, Teaching, and the Second Book Project
- Transitioning to Employment Outside the Academy and Staying Connected to the Field
- Navigating the Job Market and Employment in the US, Canada, and Europe as an Immigrant
Mentors may also suggest topics upon sign-up. The AAS may contact potential mentors with follow-up questions.
Requirements for Mentors
- Must be a current AAS Member
- Must be registered for the Annual Conference
- Mid-career or senior scholars as well as professionals from outside the academy welcome
- Must demonstrate knowledge/expertise in selected topics
* Graduate students and early career Asianists will have the opportunity to sign up for mentorship sessions in early 2025.
Questions? Contact Maura Elizabeth Cunningham, mcunningham@asianstudies.org