When asked, my answers depend on who’s asking. Still, I have turned over in my mind the essence and aspects of floating a peer-associate boat .

Proximity–The closer the better. There should be a possibility to connect more often than at SCA events. You don’t have to live in the same town, but I would limit travel to day-tripping, three hours one-way tops. You want to spend more time sharing than driving, to bond and work as mates. 

Honor–Reputations rub off on close associates and each person’s behavior reflects on the other. Do you share compatible moral codes? Who does each visit at events? Even before a formal announcement, repeated connections are noted by others. The relationship should be a blessing for all, and the community too.

Learning Environment–Do both have available time and compatible schedules? Does the teacher know what the student wants to learn or where to find it? How is criticism shared and taken? These considerations float the association boat and make learning possible.

Goals–Mutual goals are important to any relationship. What does each want from the association: skill knowledge, authentic encampment or an event pal? Goals set the boat’s direction.

My opinion: I wouldn’t take an apprentice if hanging out was their only goal. I would gladly welcome them and offer hospitality.