What does GEMS provide?

GEMS will match you with a mentor to help guide you through the graduate program application process. If you are in the Ruby track, you and your mentor might discuss whether grad school is the right option for you, types of graduate programs, and how to get a head start on preparing a competitive application. If you are in the Sapphire track, your mentor can help you choose which programs to apply to, reach out to potential advisors, with feedback on application materials, and select a graduate program. 

GEMS provides additional resources through our website and discord server. Check out our weekly FYI chats which cover a wide range of subjects including deciding if you should go to graduate school, writing CVs, asking for letters of recommendation, graduate school finances, and applying to the NSF-GRFP.

How does the matching process work?

We match you with a mentor based on your responses in the application form. We take into consideration your field(s), research interests, and identity to try to find the right mentor for you. We do our best to match mentees and mentors with shared research interests, although this isn’t always possible.

What do I do if there’s a problem?

Let us know by filling out this form. Someone from GEMS will get in touch with you ASAP.  We want to hear if there’s an issue so we can try to re-match you. Let us know as soon as there’s a problem.

How often will I meet with my match?

We suggest setting up a regular meeting schedule with your match. You can decide on the right frequency based on the level of guidance required and your availability.

Are ocean, atmospheric, and planetary sciences included?

Yes! We recruit mentors from a broad range of geoscience and related fields.

When will I get my match?

Our first round of matching will occur in early Fall after applications close.

What if my field isn’t related to Earth Sciences? 

Please visit our resources page to learn more about other great mentoring programs.

What is your geographic focus?

We are focused on students based in the US applying to graduate programs in the US.

Why are you doing this?

We believe that all students wishing to pursue an advanced degree should have access to the resources and support that they need and deserve. We created GEMS from two past mentor match programs to address widespread mentorship gaps, particularly for students from underrepresented groups in the geosciences and academia. GEMS aims to increase the accessibility of graduate programs and funding for all students, which we recognize is only one component of a larger effort needed to diversify the geosciences. 

Do I have to identify as part of a minoritized group to sign up?

No, we will provide mentors for all students who would like support in applying to graduate programs and writing fellowship applications. We prioritize making connections for students with identities that have been minoritized in the geosciences.

Do I have to sign up every year?

Yes, please do. We request a mentor commitment of one year.