Adopt a Student — Mentoring that connects experience with emerging aquaculture talent

At the European Aquaculture Society (EAS), our members represent a collective knowledge and expertise spanning thousands of years. Many of our members have been pivotal to the growth of aquaculture, leading their respective fields and contributing significantly to scientific advancements.

In recent years, the EAS Student Group has revitalized student participation, creating a thriving community of aspiring aquaculture professionals. The impressive student engagement at Aquaculture Europe events underscores the potential for meaningful exchanges between students and seasoned experts.

To build on this foundation, we’ve launched "Adopt a Student", a mentoring initiative designed to foster informal, impactful connections between students and senior members - not just at events but throughout the year.

Ready to join? Register as a mentor or mentee in 3–5 minutes using the online form.

 


How it works?

  1. Register as a mentor or mentee using the online form.

  2. We match you based on interests, experience, time zone/language, and availability.

  3. Intro email: we connect you and share a short “getting started” guide.

  4. First meeting: agree on 1-3 goals, meeting frequency, and communication style.

  5. Mentoring: most pairs meet online for 30-60 minutes about once per month, with optional in-person catch-ups at Aquaculture Europe events.

Participants will share their experiences through:

  • Short stories for the EAS newsletter and EAS-SG social media.
  • Annual summaries for the EAS magazine and Board updates.
  • Collaborative presentations and short films at Aquaculture Europe events.

Why Join "Adopt a Student"?

For Students

  • Gain direct access to a wealth of experience and industry knowledge.
  • Interact informally with leaders in your field, beyond the traditional university structure.
  • Receive personalized guidance on tasks, career planning, networking, and more.

For Mentors

  • Share your expertise and make a difference in shaping the future of aquaculture.
  • Stay informed on emerging trends and fresh perspectives.
  • Enhance your mentoring and communication skills, including through social media.

For EAS

  • Strengthen the bond between students and seasoned members.
  • Facilitate knowledge sharing and professional development within the community.
  • Maximize the networking benefits of EAS membership.

Sign Up Today!
Whether you're a seasoned expert or a student eager to learn, we invite you to join this initiative. Signing up is simple:

  1. Provide your name, contact details, interests (species, environments, technologies, etc.), and education level (for students).
  2. Share your motivations for joining and any preferences for your mentoring partner.
  3. Complete the registration form (3-5 minutes) here. We’ll contact you when a match is ready.

Bonus: Active participants will receive FREE EAS membership during their involvement in the "Adopt a Student" program!

 Click on me and read testimonials
 

Feedback from our two Adopt a student pairs, Fernando Afonso and Mairin-Rua Ni Aodha & Gavin Burnell and Julian Zwarg are available in the form of a podcast.
Click here and listen free EAStalk podcasts.