AAN Mentorship Program
5th Cohort - Spring 2026
The third rendition of the AAN Mentorship Program will take place from
April to June 2026.
Mentee applications will be open February 15th to March 1st 2026.
Unfortunately we are unable to provide individual feedback to applications. If you do not hear from us by March 29th 2026, please consider your application as unsuccessful.
Program Description & Guidelines
Please make sure to read the Program Description as well as the Guidelines before applying:
Timeline
Mentee applications:
Sun, February 15th - March 1st 2026
Selection & Matching:
Successful mentee candidates will be informed by Sun, March 29th at the latest
Main phase:
Wed, April 1st - Tue, June 30th 2026
Feedback: July
Frequently Asked Questions
⮞ Do I need to be an anthropologist to apply?
No. You do not need to be an anthropologist by training, but you should have some understanding of anthropology and be able to explain your background in the application form.
⮞ What is the next step of the application process?
Mentees will be selected based on the application form solely. We will not conduct interviews with potential applicants, so please make sure to present your profile the best you can.
⮞ Can I reapply if I am not successful this time?
Yes, you are welcome to apply for the next call for mentees.
⮞ Can I apply if I need support with my academic research or want to go back to the university?
No, this program focuses on applying anthropology skills in settings outside of academia. However, EASA has recently launched their own mentorship program focusing on academic professional development - check it out here: EASA Academic Mentorship Program
⮞ What if I realise that my mentor is not a good fit?
After the introductory meeting with your mentor, you may be able to discontinue with the program, if you feel strongly that the relationship will be unsuccessful. In this scenario, we will not be able to find another mentor for you and you will be withdrawn from the program.
⮞ What is the structure of the mentoring sessions?
There is no general structure of the mentoring sessions, as these sessions should focus on the individual needs, challenges and goals of mentees. You as a mentee will be responsible for scheduling the sessions, drafting an agenda and suggesting topics to discuss.
Do you have any questions not included here? Reach out!
mentorship(at)applied-anthropology.com
⮞ Why are we not informing all applicants about the ouctome of their application?
We are more than excited about the astounding interest in the program! Unfortunately, as a fully volunteer-run initiative, we do not have the capacity to reply to each candidate due to time constraints and have not yet found a technical solution that allows us to do so more easily.
⮞ Do I need to pay to participate in the program?
No. The AAN Mentorship Program is fully free and does not incur any costs for participants.