SASEpals 2026

Connect Beyond the Screen: Introducing SASEpals

Real letters. Real connections. A year of encouragement across campuses and careers.


Conventions move at lightning speed—conversations happen in passing, contact info gets buried in notes apps, and digital connections rarely build deep, lasting bonds. SASEpals brings back the intentional art of the written letter. Debuting onsite at STEM Connect, SASEpals pairs collegiate and professional attendees across the country for an October-to-October exchange of real, mailed letters. Whether you are navigating college midterms, launching your engineering career, or leading industry initiatives, finding a handwritten letter in your mailbox is a tangible reminder that someone in the SASEfam is rooting for you.

Eligibility & Pricing

Open to all registered convention attendees onsite during activity hours (career-fair-only pass holders are not eligible).

Member Sign-Up

Non-Member Sign-Up

How to Join: Step-by-Step

  1. Sign Up & Drop Off Your SASE: Thursday, October 1 at 5:30 PM @ Registration Desk Bring your Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope (SASE!). Staff will verify that the envelope is addressed to you and has valid US postage affixed.
    1. Forgot yours? Backup standard envelopes and stamps are available onsite for $1 CASH ONLY.
  2. Keep Your Ticket: You will receive a numbered ticket. The matching stub is secured to your regional match envelope. Hold onto your ticket half—you must present it for picku
  3. Pick Up Your Pen Pal Match: Friday, October 2 at TBD & 5:00 PM @ Registration Desk Return during the pickup window and present your ticket to receive your SASEpal’s SAS
  4. Enter the Stationery Kit Drawing: Leave your half of the ticket with staff upon pickup to be entered into the drawing for an exclusive Convention Stationery Kit!

Important Privacy Notice

Photograph the Address Immediately: SASE protects your privacy and does not retain, record, or store mailing addresses. When you receive your SASEpal's envelope at pickup, take a clear photo of their mailing address so you have it saved for the entire program year.

Direct Communication: SASE does not monitor or facilitate letter deliveries after the convention. All correspondence happens directly between pen pals through the mail.

Participant Guidelines & Rules

To ensure an encouraging, reliable exchange for everyone involved, all participants commit to these standards:

  • Mail Every Letter: Letters may be handwritten or typed, but emails, texts, and social media DMs do not count toward the program year. Keep the connection in the mailbox!
  • Stay in Touch Monthly: Strive to reply within two weeks of receiving a letter. If your schedule gets hectic, ensure you send a letter or postal check-in at least once per mont
  • Be Kind & Respectful: SASE event conduct expectations apply throughout the year. All correspondence must remain respectful and free from harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate conten
  • Protect Your Comfort: Share only what feels comfortable. You may pause or discontinue the exchange at any point if you feel uncomfortabl
  • Gifts Are Optional: Thoughtful letters are the heart of SASEpals. Flat enclosures (stickers, chapter pins, bookmarks) are welcome, but gifts are never expected or require
  • After the Year: Once the October-to-October cycle concludes at the next convention, you and your pen pal decide how—or whether—to stay in touch.

What to Write About

No fancy stationery or profound life advice required! When you pick up your envelope, you’ll receive an official prompt sheet packed with ideas to get started:

  • Introduce your major, your company, or your current role.
  • Share your favorite workshop or takeaway from STEM Connect.
  • Talk about an academic, technical, or personal goal you're tackling this quarter.
  • Share a hobby, a project, or a book/podcast recommendation that made an impact on you recently.

Bring your SASE to SASE by Thursday at noon, meet your new pen pal, and get ready for a year of real mail!