Mentorship Opportunities

Gateway

USITT’s Gateway Program was launched in 2014 in memory of our colleague, Tayneshia Jefferson, who fought for underrepresented populations in the industry. This unique, customizable mentorship program fosters opportunities for those who identify with an underrepresented population. It allows an individual to work with a mentor to tailor their learning goals and career development while attending the upcoming conference with the financial support of USITT. In addition, it offers a vast network of industry professionals for mentees to learn and engage with during their time at USITT and beyond.

The Gateway Program is a brave space with the intention of building community. It provides the tools and resources to empower our mentees and mentors by working to cultivate intentional, lasting relationships through collaborative, community-based mentorship. It is also a training program that will provide some career development curriculum and other resources to mentees during their time at the USITT Conference. This program is for students currently enrolled in an academic program or recently graduated, individuals re-entering the industry, and folks seeking resources that have not been easily accessible to them during their time spent in the arts.

Stage Management Mentor Project

The Stage Management Mentor Project (SMMP) connects professional stage managers with mentees for a time of practical training experiences for USITT 23’s most high-profile events!

Those who are selected will be paired with a mentor and assigned the role of stage manager or assistant stage manager for up to three events at Conference. Participation in roundtable discussions about stage management and related areas and skills are also part of the agenda.

This one-of-a-kind experience is available to students who are members or will become a member and are enrolled in at least the third year of an undergraduate university program or are graduate students. If you’re a young professional, you must be in the first two years of paid employment in the performing arts field.

 

Student Ambassador Program

The Student Ambassador Program is an exceptional opportunity for students to engage in conversation with renowned international designers and theatre experts attending the annual conference. Three student USITT members will each be paired with one of the three visiting international guests with shared areas of focus. This connection is intended to encourage international networking between early designer/technicians and our global colleagues.

Student Volunteers
Interested in attending USITT23 in St. Louis for FREE? Apply to be a student assistant! Student Assistants will be assigned to work in a variety of areas to assist in the production of the Conference & Stage Expo. Applicants are selected on a first come, first served basis. In exchange for at least 15 hours of work at the Conference, USITT will waive the student Conference registration fee. Click here to apply!