VGL Mentor Application

Veterans in Global Leadership is seeking applications for VGL Mentors. VGL is a nonpartisan 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to train, mentor, and empower veterans on their path to become tomorrow’s global leaders.

The VGL Fellowship Program

Through a merit-based review process, Veterans in Global Leadership selects veterans attending universities to participate in a VGL Fellowship program with three components:

  1. Leadership Summit

  2. Formal Mentorship & Guidance

  3. Leadership Seminars, Networking Events, & Panels

The VGL Mentorship Program

SETTING THE CONDITIONS FOR SUCCESS

VGL recruits mentors with a passion for their positions, with broad networks, and who are adept at providing constructive criticism and translating military service skills and values into relevant workforce framing and parlance.  We identify and recruit high-quality, proven mentors to ensure that each fellow has the right mentor to maximize their success. 

WHAT GETS MEASURED GETS MANAGED

Prior to the beginning of the academic year we provide over-arching guidance on the value of the mentorship program and how to make best use of it.  We provide resources for fellows to develop their mentorship plans which will guide their interaction with their mentor, and guidance on how to take advantage of all of VGL’s resources.

ONGOING SUPPORT AND COORDINATION

Mentors and fellows will jointly finalize the fellow's mentorship plans and engage in an ongoing basis to achieve as many of the fellow’s goals as possible in 12 months. This is a living document and we expect the plan to evolve as fellows decide how they want to add the most value to our nation.

EVALUATE RESULTS AND MAINTAIN CONNECTIVITY

Upon completion of the fellowship, we survey our fellows and mentors to evaluate their experiences in the program, matched against their expectations at the start of the fellowship cycle. We engage with each fellow and mentor to maintain continuity across fellowship classes and increase the impact of the VGL network.

Mentor COMMITMENT

At the start of each mentorship, the fellow and mentor complete a Work Agreement to clarify expectations. Mentors are expected to provide ongoing assistance and support with their fellow’s scholarship or fellowship application for one academic year. Mentorship beyond the academic year is voluntary. It is important that mentors treat fellows professionally, which includes responding to communications and following up on action steps. If rescheduling is necessary, communicate with your fellow. If your fellow has a need you cannot provide, reach out to the Co-Directors of Mentorship Programs for additional support.

By applying to be a VGL Mentor, you agree to allow VGL to publicize your name and accomplishments on our website. 

Application Information

Veterans in Global Leadership is accepting applications from exceptional mentors. We are seeking a diverse group with a range of personal and professional backgrounds and service histories, including both former officers and enlisted personnel—and civilians. Strong preference will be given to mentors with a passion for service and a commitment to assist other veterans, an entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic, and leadership skills.

aPPLICANT rEQUIREMENTS

  • Selected as a National Finalist or Scholar/Fellow of a prestigious scholarship or fellowship

  • Committed interest in public policy, national security and foreign policy

  • Dedicated to providing scholarship, fellowship, or internship guidance for one academic year

  • Ability to devote 3 to 6 hours of mentorship a month

We ask that mentors attend, if possible, at least one day of the annual Leadership Summit in the summer. This is an opportunity for everyone involved to meet staff, fellows, and other mentors. 

To be considered for this program, interested parties should complete the VGL Mentor Application Form below and email the following materials to mentorship@vetsgl.org:

  • Current resume (used for internal fellow-mentor matching purposes)

  • Short bio (approximately 100 words)

  • High resolution headshot

  • Copy of DD Form 214 (if applicable)