Open Door Mentor

Disconnects between academic and firm culture can make the transition into the practice of architecture jarring. The Open Door Mentor initiative at AIA New York is designed to help college students and young professionals navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their pursuit of a profession in architecture. The initiative is an opportunity to fill in some of the gaps with practical advice on questions that often go unanswered.

Open Door Mentor works to connect college students pursuing a degree in architecture or a related design field with a mentor to provide insight into the industry and share guidance on various topics including portfolio critique, interview prepping, and questions on firm culture. The program also serves as a great opportunity for emerging design professionals that are seeking to gain experience as mentors.

Mentors and Mentees will be matched for a 30-minute mentoring session following the completion of the Open Door Mentee Form. Mentors and Mentees will meet for a 30-minute mentoring session after being matched based on a variety of topics and the Mentor’s ability to best respond to a Mentees inquiry per the Mentee Form. Mentoring sessions may be virtual or in-person depending on the Mentor/Mentee preference.

Mentors participating in the Open Door Mentor program will be invited to panels and roundtables with mentees. Mentors/Firms will also have the opportunity to be featured on the AIA New York website as participants of the program.

Become an Open Door Mentor >

Request a Mentoring Session >