CSU faculty are at the heart of the California Pre-Doctoral Program. As mentors, they play a vital role in helping talented students navigate the path from undergraduate or master's study to successful entry into doctoral programs.
A Pre-Doctoral Faculty Mentor provides more than a recommendation, they serve as a trusted guide, advocate, and professional role model. Through mentorship, faculty help scholars clarify their research interests, strengthen academic skills, and build the confidence and connections needed for graduate study. Their support often shapes the scholar's trajectory long after the scholarship year ends.
Purpose and Impact of Mentorship
Faculty mentors amplify the Pre-Doctoral experience by:
- Guiding academic and professional development. Mentors help students identify research areas, graduate programs, and faculty at doctoral-granting institutions aligned with their interests.
- Introducing scholars to research culture. Many mentors provide opportunities to assist with projects, present at conferences, or engage in scholarly writing.
- Offering individualized feedback. Regular conversations about academic goals, timelines, and doctoral readiness help scholars stay focused and realistic about next steps.
- Modeling the faculty career path. Mentors share insight into teaching, research, and service responsibilities, helping scholars envision academic life.
- Expanding professional networks. Faculty often connect scholars with colleagues at UC or other research institutions, accompany them to campus visits, or encourage participation in national symposia.
- Effective mentorship transforms the Pre-Doctoral year into a launching point for long-term academic success.
For many faculty, mentorship continues well beyond the scholarship year. Alumni frequently remain in contact with their mentors for graduate-school advice, recommendation letters, and professional collaboration. Faculty who mentor Pre-Doc scholars also gain valuable experience in student development, research supervision, and cross-campus engagement.
By mentoring a Sally Casanova Scholar, CSU faculty contribute directly to the university's mission of expanding educational opportunity and advancing academic excellence—ensuring that every promising student has a fair and equitable chance to pursue doctoral study and a future in higher education.