Mentor Information Overview
Scientists, Engineers, Doctors, Technologists...
Introduce a high school student to the professional world of science and engineering by becoming an ASE mentor!
Saturday Academy's Apprenticeships in Science and Engineering (ASE) Program provides a way to contribute to the education and training of the next generation of professionals. For eight weeks during the summer, ASE students spend the equivalent of full time at their mentor's workplace. Some students work on special projects designed to be completed in the eight-week period; others contribute to the ongoing work of the mentor.
"We love having these students come in during the summer to do real work and make good progress on a project."--ASE Mentor, Intel Corporation
The impact of the ASE program extends far beyond the eight weeks in the workplace. Some apprentices are credited as authors or co-authors of professional publications, or they develop products used by their mentors. Many students are hired back to work with their mentors in following years. All have a clearer and more specific understanding of the academic preparation they will need to pursue these interests.
“I learned several new computer techniques and computer languages. This experience increased my programming abilities. I became a lot better at debugging programs too. This was a really great experience to see what a real computer engineer goes through in his/her daily routine.” --ASE Apprentice at Tektronix, Inc.
For mentors, the ASE Program provides a way to contribute to the education and training of the next generation of professionals. Mentors have found their apprentices to be creative and productive - worth the investment of time and resources.
“. . .our summer intern is on board and is living up to the incredibly high standards we always see from these excellent students. It really speaks to the strengths of your programs.” -- ASE Mentor, Clarity Visual Systems
Mentors Are In Control
ASE staff recruits the applicant pool for the mentor, but the mentor screens, interviews, and makes the final selection. If the mentor does not find an acceptable candidate, the position will be closed with no further obligation. If properly planned, two or three mentors may "team mentor" one or more students. The mentors may assign reading material a month before the apprenticeship begins to give the student a jump start.
Mentors Have A Support Network
ASE staff support mentors in a variety of ways.
- A Question & Answer handbook is distributed to all mentors.
- A 60-minute orientation is presented in May.
- A local science/math teacher is hired to monitor the progress of the student.
- Contact info of other mentors in related fields of work are available upon request.
- A full-time ASE staff member is always available for consultation.
Interested?
See how to sign up.