Mentorship Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mentor Circles?
The Mentor Circles program is a global, group mentoring experience in which one mentor meets with a group of mentees. This allows mentees to learn not only from a great mentor but also to network with and learn from a group of like-minded peers. Each circle has a different focus, and mentees can apply to the circle that best suits their needs and goals.
The Circles provide an opportunity for mentees to learn more about the industry, craft, and employment opportunities within animation, develop a personal connection with working animation professionals, create confidential groups for sharing challenges, and build the kinds of bonds and relationships that will help support careers for years to come.
Who can apply to the Mentor Circles Program?
Eligibility: Applications are open to:
- Any currently active Creator Level Member of WIA.
- If you need to upgrade your account to the Creator level,
learn how to do that here.
- If you need to upgrade your account to the Creator level,
- Members who have never participated in a WIA Mentorship Circle OR any mentee that has not participated
in the program for 1 year (one year from the end of your program, see participant eligibility table below). - BIPOC applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Creator Level Members: Any currently active Creator Level Member of WIA.
- If you need to upgrade your account to the Creator level,
learn how to do that here. - Members who have never participated in a WIA Mentorship Circle OR any mentee not active for
1 year since their last program ended. - BIPOC applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
Is there any additional cost to participate in the Mentor Circles Program?
The program is free to Creator Level members. There are no additional costs.
Do I have to live in the US to apply?
No. The Mentorship Circle Program is global and there are no geographic barriers. Anyone can apply from anywhere.
Has the application process changed with the launch of the new website?
Yes. There have been several changes with the launch of our new site; learn
the new application process here.
When does the next round of Circles begin?
WIA currently runs two rounds of mentorship each year:
- Round 1 (formerly “Spring”) circles run from April to July, with applications open in February.
- Round 2 (formerly “Fall”) circles run from October to January with a break for the holidays, with applications open in August.
Have you participated in the program before? Find out when you’ll be eligible to apply again (Note: Round 1 was formerly called “Spring” and Roound 2 was formerly called “Fall”):
| Year of Participation | Round | Future Eligibility | Round | Future Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Round 1 | Eligible | Round 2 | Eligible |
| 2022 | Round 1 | Eligible | Round 2 | Eligible |
| 2023 | Round 1 | Eligible | Round 2 | Eligible |
| 2024 | Round 1 | Eligible | Round 2 | Eligible |
| 2025 | Round 1 | 2026 Round 2 | Round 2 | 2027 Round 1 |