Why should you become a Mentor?
Young people who have the opportunity to meet real scientists and engineers — and who are exposed to science through active inquiry-based learning — are more likely to pursue careers in STEM. Yet many children have never met or interacted with a “real” scientist, particularly in the most underserved neighborhoods. By being students’ positive role model as a real-world scientist or engineer, you can inspire curiosity and excitement about STEM topics, and positively influence the career aspirations of young minds.
Mentor Qualifications
- ASMP Mentors are research fellows, undergraduate and graduate students, postdocs, transitional scientists, or R&D specialists.
- Must be passionate about inspiring youth to pursue STEM mindset, studies, and careers
- Must be willing to complete the program training and adhere to the mentorship schedule
- Must be local to the NYC area
- Must be prepared to complete a background check administered by the Department of Youth and Community Development (at no cost to you).
- Willing to complete an online compliance training, adhering to local and state policies regarding working with minors. (These are done at no cost to you.)
- Note that some sites may also require a health form signed by a doctor.
Apply Today
We’re now recruiting mentors for the Spring Semester of the 2025–26 School Year!
For the Spring 2026 term, mentors commit to facilitating one-hour STEM sessions once per week for 10 weeks between February and June 2026.
Mentors receive training in STEM curriculum and youth development and work alongside Classroom Specialists and site staff to co-implement engaging, hands-on activities.
In addition to completing the online application, mentors are encouraged (but not required) to submit a brief letter of acknowledgment from their PI or supervisor confirming awareness of the once-a-week commitment.
Benefits include:
- $500 stipend upon completion of service
- Up to $150 in travel reimbursement per semester
- Complimentary year-long membership to The New York Academy of Sciences
Spring 2026 program timeline*
- January 20, 2026: Applications close (rolling interviews and acceptance)
- February 2, 2026: Mentor onboarding begins (virtual)
- February 7, 2026, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Scientists Curriculum Workshop (in-person)
- February 23, 2026: Weekly in-class sessions begin
- March 24 or 25, 2026 (TBD): Midpoint check-ins (1.5-hour virtual workshop)
- June 12, 2026: Final in-class session
- June 19, 2026: Certificates and stipends are awarded
*Timeline subject to change
