Frequently asked questions
We've answered the most common questions in our FAQs, so students and mentors can easily find what they need to get started on BobaTalks.
General questions
We are a nonprofit that helps students navigate the ambiguities of early career development. Through virtual mentorship calls (BobaTalks), we connect students with professionals in the tech industry.
We do not charge students or mentors for using our service. Everyone who works with BobaTalks does so in a volunteer capacity.
No—BobaTalks is primarily a mentorship program. Networking is a benefit of being mentored, but our purpose is strictly to help students find mentors.
Students
Never! Our program will always be free.
We recommend finding an alternative mentor or joining our Discord. All mentorship operates on a volunteer basis, so availability can vary.
Long-term mentorship is not encouraged at BobaTalks. However, mentors are able to sustain a long-term mentorship if they choose to and consent to it—this needs to be arranged directly between you and the mentor.
Yes, you can still apply. Just keep in mind that our mentors' experience is based on their careers in the North American region, which might differ slightly or greatly compared to other regions.
At BobaTalks, we have a strict no-asking-for-referral rule as this is done to preserve the bandwidth and headspace of our mentors.
At BobaTalks, we foster discussions focused on both career and personal growth. Our content blends career insights with meaningful, heart-to-heart conversations.
Mentors
At BobaTalks, we offer a coffee-chat style of mentorship—casual, brief, yet impactful conversations where students can learn from experienced mentors. Mentors have the freedom to choose who they engage with and what topics they'd like to discuss.
While most of our mentorship is primarily in tech, we're making a conscious effort to spread our mentorship to other sectors such as non-tech, healthcare, consulting, startups, and other various fields.
BobaTalks is completely free with no monetization, we prioritize convenience and flexibility, and we focus specifically on supporting early-career individuals.
Absolutely! Many mentors are eager to help but aren't sure how to begin. Our laid-back approach is perfect for those who want to make an impact without the pressure of formal commitments.
As of 2025, our BobaMentors are asked to have at least 1+ years of experience in their endgame field, to be based in the US/Canada region for timezone purposes, and to be familiar with Discord.
Nope! We do not, have not, and never will monetize our program.
Sponsors and partners
Sponsorship enables event hosting, mentorship expansion, and community building. Partners gain brand amplification and access to an engaged, diverse audience.
Please fill out our sponsorship form to get started. Submitting the form doesn't guarantee acceptance, but our team will review it and follow up with next steps.