FUTURE NOW Mentoring Program is open to FUTURE NOW alumni only, who have attended the FUTURE NOW Media & Entertainment Conference.

​

We select the top applicants for the nine-month-long program, which begins in September and concludes in May.  Each of the mentees is matched with an industry mentor based on their mutual interests and goals. 

Your Application Matters: What We're Looking For

The FUTURE NOW Mentoring Program is one of the most meaningful experiences we offer. It is also one of our most competitive programs. Our mentors are accomplished professionals who are volunteering nine months of their time to invest in your growth. Because of that commitment, we are looking for applicants who are equally committed to making the most of the opportunity.

​

Your essay is the single most important part of your application. We encourage you to take your time, reflect honestly, and write from your own experiences. While AI can be a helpful tool for brainstorming or proofreading, your application should not read like something generated by AI. Our selection committee reviews every application carefully, and we can usually tell when an essay lacks authenticity or personal reflection. We want to hear your voice.

What Makes a Strong Application?

A successful application demonstrates that you are ready for mentorship—not just interested in having a mentor. Strong applications typically address questions such as:

​

• Why are you applying to the FUTURE NOW Mentoring Program?

  • Why is this the right opportunity for you at this point in your journey?

• What are your career goals?

  • What do you hope to do in media, entertainment, or technology?

  • Where do you see yourself heading?

• What specific goals do you hope to accomplish during the nine-month program?

  • Think beyond "networking" or "learning more."

  • What tangible skills, experiences, or milestones do you hope to achieve?

• Why are you ready for mentorship now?

  • What have you already done to pursue your goals?

  • What challenges or questions are you hoping a mentor can help you navigate?

• How will you contribute to the relationship?

  • Great mentoring relationships are partnerships. We want mentees who are curious, proactive, prepared, responsive, and willing to put in the work.

We are looking for applicants who demonstrate:

• Genuine passion for the industry

• Self-awareness and maturity

• Initiative and personal responsibility

• Clear goals and a desire to grow

• Openness to feedback and learning

• Commitment to fully participating throughout the nine-month program

You do not need to have everything figured out. In fact, many successful applicants are still exploring different career paths. What matters is that you have thoughtfully reflected on where you are today, where you hope to go, and why mentorship can help you get there.

​

FINAL ADVICE

Imagine you are sitting across the table from the selection committee.

What would you want us to know about you that doesn't appear on your résumé? Tell us your story. Be specific. Be reflective. Be honest.

​

The strongest applications are not necessarily written by the best writers—they are written by applicants who demonstrate sincerity, purpose, and a genuine readiness to learn.

​

We're excited to learn more about you, and we look forward to reading your application.

______