The EAS Mentorship Program:
The EAS Mentorship Program is all about building connections within our department, regardless of seniority. We aim to foster relationships that encourage the community to take advantage of the many opportunities EAS and its members offer throughout the year. In 2021, GASI (formerly GASSS) launched the mentorship program with "academic families," inspired by the UK's system. Since then, we’ve refined the program year by year based on participant feedback to create a more flexible and inclusive structure.
This year’s mentorship program will run from January to December 2025 (excluding the Spring and Summer terms - unless pods want to meet) and it is open to anyone in the department, including graduating students.
Here’s how it works:
Mentorship pair: Based on your preferences, we will pair you with a mentee or mentor.
Mentorship Pods: Each pod will consist of up to four graduate-undergraduate pairs, designed to facilitate group interaction.
Faculty Participation: Faculty members will serve as "floating mentors" at sponsored events, meaning they’ll be available to connect informally with participants.
Sponsored Events: We’ll host a variety of activities throughout the year to encourage connection and engagement.
What's expected within the GASI mentorship program?
Meet with your pod at least once during the Winter term to get to know one another. Group settings can often make the mentee-mentor connection more approachable.
Meet with your mentee/mentor soon after pod assignments to establish rapport and set the tone for the year.
Check in with your mentee/mentor periodically throughout the program to maintain a strong relationship.
Attend GASI-sponsored events if your schedule allows—these activities are curated to foster community and provide opportunities for connection. Attendance is encouraged but not mandatory.
We’re excited to see how this year’s mentorship program continues to build a supportive, connected EAS community. Let us know if you have any questions—we’re here to help!
If you have any questions or concerns about the mentorship program please feel free to contact gasi.ualberta@gmail.com.