KEYS Crew FAQ
KEYS Crew mentors are the near-peer mentors for the new class of KEYS interns. A mentor's job is composed of 3 general duties: intern mentorship, event preparation, and staff support.
We are looking for enthusiastic and amicable leaders who want to inspire future interns, work on a team, and develop as mentors.
The 2024 KEYS Crew application is currently open and will close on February 7, 2024. If you have any questions about the application process, please contact Robyn Pratt at 520-621-1173.
To be a KEYS Crew Member, you must be at least 18 years old, have maturity and the ability to assume responsibility and authority in appropriate situations, have strong communication skills, and provide your own transportation for the program.
Additionally, hired KEYS Crew mentors are required to perform a fingerprint background check and authorized adult training through the University of Arizona Office of Youth Safety.
You can still apply for KEYS Crew, but know that preference is given to KEYS alumni.
Mentors are expected to work 15 hours between February and April for training, but this is flexible around your schedule. Mentors will also need to work 15 flexible hours in May to prepare for program events.
When KEYS begins, mentors can expect to work 40 hours during Training Week, between 25 and 30 hours during weeks 2 through 5, 40 hours during week 6, and 40 hours during week 7. You must be available for at least one weekend during the internship, and you must attend a staff debrief meeting after the program concludes.
The general duties of a Crew member include intern mentorship, event preparation, and staff support. Under intern mentorship, the Crew mentor will be the first point of contact for intern questions and needs. The mentors will be the ones planning and leading icebreakers, team builders, and intern socials. They'll work with interns on writing, creation, and printing of their research posters as well. The Crew members are also responsible for attending KEYS Crew meetings.
For event preparation, the Crew member will attend and help facilitate ALL KEYS events and be the ones to prepare materials for the events. Lastly, KEYS Crew will be tasked with staff support, which includes completing tasks as assigned by program staff and attending staff meetings.
Since KEYS runs for only 7 weeks out of the summer, we need staff who will be completely available for the duration of the summer.
After reviewing applications, program staff will send an email informing applicants whether or not their application was selected for an interview. The interview will then determine if you are hired. Check your email frequently - including your junk mail.
If you have any questions, please contact Robyn Pratt at robynpratt@bio5.org or 520-621-1773.