OPA Launches Postdoc Peer Mentoring Program (PMP)
The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs’ (OPA) is excited to launch the Peer Mentoring Program (PMP), which aims to provide an informal means where newer postdocs can benefit from the insights and perspectives of others who are further along in the process. Peer mentorship – postdocs mentoring other postdocs – can improve health and wellbeing; enhance career outcomes; and cultivate community and connectedness.
PMP is volunteer-based and pairs new or newer postdocs with more senior postdocs to foster support and leadership, respectively. Mentees benefit from networking and receiving one-on-one support and guidance about the postdoc and campus culture at CU Boulder, while serving as a mentor shows a commitment to leadership, builds confidence and strengthens communication skills – all of which are beneficial when seeking jobs.
Mentees and mentors may be paired at any time during the year. If you are interested in participating, complete the appropriate application linked below. OPA will make the initial mentee/mentor connection.
Requirements
Mentees
Must be in a postdoc position at CU Boulder for less than one year
Commit to PMP for at least one year
Connect (in-person or virtually) at least once every month with mentor
Agree to serve as a mentor to a mentee after one year of being at CU Boulder
Determine communication method (e.g., in-person meeting, Zoom) and frequency during the first meeting
Commit to ensuring conversations are confidential and not shared with others, unless intervention is needed outside of the mentor-mentee relationship (e.g., a mentor is unsure how to help with a particular matter and needs to consult with OPA)
Mentors
Must have been in a postdoc position at CU Boulder for at least one year
Commit to PMP for at least one year
Connect (in-person or virtually) at least once every month with mentee
Determine method of interaction and frequency during the first meeting
- Review training materials in advance of meeting with mentee and reference as needed
Commit to understanding mentors may not have all the answers, and if anything is in doubt to contact OPA at opa@colorado.edu
Must have the ability to develop and promote intercultural understanding and engagement
Commit to ensuring conversations are confidential and not shared with others, unless intervention is needed outside of the mentor-mentee relationship (e.g., a mentor is unsure how to help with a particular matter and needs to consult with OPA)