Mentorship Program
Mentorship Overview
Second Act’s mentorship program is the cornerstone of our organization. We take great pride in tailoring each mentorship to the needs of applicants through a thoughtful and individualized matching process to pair mentees with the members of our community best suited to assist them.
Mentorship Types
1:1 Mentorship
Personalized individual coaching with +4 sessions with one Second Act mentor
Multi-Mentorship
One-off coaching sessions with multiple mentors in the Second Act network
Hybrid Mentorship
Combination of 1:1 and Multi-Mentorship, working with a primary mentor
Mentorship Process
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The mentorship matching process takes place in 3 steps:
1) Mentee applicants fill out our questionnaire regarding background information, interests, and career goals. At this stage applicants also choose between 1:1 Mentorship, Multi-Mentorship or Hybrid.
2) The Second Act team reviews each applicant's profile to determine eligibility for the program, and identify the right mentor for each mentee. Mentors are first notified of a possible match.
3) A kick-off email is then sent to both mentee and mentor, introducing the pairing and setting expectations for the mentorship. For 1:1 Mentorships, mentors and mentees are expected to meet at least four times over a six month period.
Note that mentees in 1:1 Mentorships are also eligible to participate in our Multi-Mentor program.
Mentors
Eligibility
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Background in some form of dance (pre-professional, or professional)
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+20 years of age
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Experience in a field other than dance
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Recommended: pursuing or graduated from undergraduate degree or equivalent certification
Expectations
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Dedicate 1-2 hours per month to coaching sessions, responding to emails and end of mentorship feedback
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Correspond with the Second Act team and mentee(s) in a timely and professional manner
Mentees
Eligibility
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Pre-professional / professional dance or other performing arts background
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+18 years of age
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Demonstrated interest and commitment
Expectations
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Maintain professional and timely communications with the Second Act team, including mid-point check-ins and end of mentorship feedback sessions
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Treat Second Act mentors with respect, in recognition that this service is free due to the generosity of our volunteer mentors
"People try and hide dance on their resumes. But when I interviewed in finance, everyone I spoke to wanted to know more about my dance experience. It defines the way I approach work and look at things."
-Leah Hirsch, Board Member