About the Program
The Congress Mentorship Program aimed to pair junior professionals or first-time conference attendees with more senior professionals to support connections during the event and general professional development. Each mentor was matched with 1-2 mentees based on shared interests, identity, or goals. Participation was free, and attendees were given the option to indicate intent to participate during registration. Priority was given to attendees who had registered and opted-in by May 1, 2025, to support the pairing process. Late sign-ups were accommodated as possible, depending on availability.
Who Can Be a Mentor or Mentee?
Attendees might qualify as either a mentor or mentee based on their individual needs, goals, skills, or achievements. Generally:
- A mentee was a student, trainee, or early career professional looking for guidance on career development from someone further along in their career. A mentee might also be an attendee at any stage of their career who is new to this field and looking for networking support from an established professional.
- A mentor was a mid-level or senior professional who was willing to provide guidance or support to a more junior attendee. This support might focus on career development guidance, research-related advice, or networking and connections.
Expected Participation:
All attendees who elected to participate in the program received a brief survey (around April 15, 2025) to support the matching process. The planning committee then paired mentors and mentees based on self-identified preferences, interests, and needs. Each pair or group received an email introduction by June 13, 2025. Our hope was for mentoring to begin before the Congress meeting starts and encourage the following engagements:
- Organize a virtual meet-up before the Congress (video chat and/or phone call).
- Attend the “Meet and Greet” event on Sunday afternoon (4-5 pm ET).
- Attend at least one scientific session together.
- Share at least one meal or break together.
- Introductions to at least one colleague with similar interests or goals at the Congress.
- Post-Congress Check-in (email, video chat, or phone call).
Questions? Please email congress@childrenandscreens.org.
