Mentorship Programme:

FAQ for Mentees

What is the purpose of the mentorship programme?

The mentorship programme helps you prepare for a career in AI governance by connecting you directly with experts in the field. You will be paired with an experienced professional in AI governance, aiming to provide tailored career advice, research feedback, and networking opportunities.

Who should apply for this programme?

The programme is intended for UK university students passionate about AI policy and governance. Ideal candidates have interests in law, technology, politics, international security, or related fields and are motivated to pursue careers in AI governance.

What kind of support can I expect from my mentor?

Your mentor may be able to help with a range of things:

  • Tailored career advice

  • Feedback on research projects and other relevant work

  • Resource Recommendations: Opportunities and resources to help progress in the field

  • Professional Networking: Introductions to contacts in your mentor’s network

  • Application Support: Guidance on writing CVs and cover letters

  • Any other topic your mentor may be willing to discuss, such as AI governance and anything to support your personal situation.

How often will I meet my mentor?

You will have at least four mentor-mentee meetings between February and September 2025. Meetings can be in person or online. You and your mentor will arrange how often and when to meet.

What are my responsibilities as a mentee?

You are expected to attend the two mentorship community kick-off and closing networking events. These are held in February and September in London. You are expected to actively engage with the support your mentor offers. This could include preparing questions for your mentor or looking into some of their suggestions. If, for any reason, you are not happy with your mentorship arrangement, please let us know right away so as to ensure a valuable mentorship experience for all parties.

What is the timeline for the mentorship programme?

  • January 2025: Mentorship pairs announced

  • Tuesday, 25th February 2025: Kick-off event in London

  • February - September 2025: Regular mentor-mentee meetings

  • September 2025: Closing event in London

How are mentors assigned?

Mentors are matched based on your career goals, preferences, and specific areas of interest in AI governance. You will complete a form detailing your career aspirations and interests, which will help us pair you with the right mentor.

What happens if I need to reschedule a meeting with my mentor?

If you need to reschedule, inform your mentor as early as possible, ideally with more than a week's notice. Consistent engagement is crucial, but we understand that unforeseen circumstances can occur.

What should I do if I have concerns about my mentor or the programme?

If you encounter issues or have concerns, no matter how small, please contact us (Arcadia Impact) immediately so as to ensure a valuable mentorship experience for all parties.

What will the opening and closing events involve?

These events are professional networking events in central London, allowing you to meet the other mentors and mentees. At the opening event, we will provide information to set you up to get the most value from your mentorship and give you the chance to meet others in the mentorship community. The closing event will provide a chance to reconnect, share progress and reflect on your journey.

Can I participate if I am not based in London?

Yes. While the kick-off and closing events require in-person attendance, meetings with your mentor can be held online if needed. Travel reimbursements are available for the events in London.

How can I request a travel reimbursement?

If you are travelling from outside of London for either networking events, you can request travel reimbursement. You can find the reimbursement form here and the expenses policy here.

Contact us

We’d love to hear about how your mentorship experience is going, good or bad, and to answer any questions you have. You can reach out to the AI Governance Fast Track project manager, Callum Hinchcliffe, at callum@arcadiaimpact.org.

You can contact Arcadia Impact’s management here.