Your experience as a Data Science professional has the power to make a lasting difference. By becoming a mentor in our Master of Data Science mentoring program, you’ll help students bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace, offering guidance, industry insights, and encouragement as they prepare to launch their careers.
As a mentor, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your professional network during the events we organize as part of the program, gain fresh perspectives from emerging talent, and contribute to building a skilled, innovative workforce.
Mentors can be MDS alumni, industry professionals with experience in the fields of Data Science, Machine Learning, Data Analysis, Programming, Statistics, Computer Science and much more. Faculty members can also participate in the program.
How to Become a Mentor
Step 1: Step 1: Read the program commitments and structure section and policies section below.
Step 2: Complete an online application form by Friday October 16, 2026: (2026-27 applications will open soon)
Program commitments and structure
- Every year, the program begins in November and ends in April.
- Depending on the ratio of mentors to students, mentors are generally matched with two MDS students. We will have some matches that are one-to-one. If you are matched with two students the expectation is that you will meet with both of them at the same time, unless you choose otherwise.
- Matches are made based on information on your application form. Your name, job title, company name and link to your professional online profile (e.g. LinkedIn) will be shared with MDS students. MDS students have the option to submit a list of their preferred mentors or have the mentoring coordinators manually match them to a mentor. In manual matches, we will consider multiple factors in your application form, including data science interest areas and career interest areas.
- Mentors will be invited to participate in a Kick-off event in November, where you will learn more about the program and have an opportunity to interact with students and other mentors. This event is optional for mentors, but we strongly encourage mentors to participate.
- Mentors commit to meeting with their matched students twice (at the minimum) during the program. Your mentoring trio (or duo) can decide to meet more if you wish. You have the option of holding your meetings in-person or online.
- You will need to commit to an estimated 10-15 hours of time over a 6-month period (November to April)
- Mentors will be invited to participate in a Wrap-up event in late March or early April to network with students and other mentors. This event is optional for mentors, but we strongly encourage mentors to participate.
Policies
As a mentor in the MDS mentoring program, you agree to the following:
- Respect the confidential nature of my discussions with my student mentee(s), and to keep their personal information private.
- Commit to the program for the time period of November to April.
- Maintain professional conduct and manners at all times.
- Report any issues to the mentoring coordinators
Notes on matching
- Remember, matches are rarely perfect. But that is what allows both mentors and students to grow.
- We know you are busy that is why student mentees are expected to take the initiative in organizing the meetings with you.