PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING

Application deadline EXTENDED to Friday October 1st, 5pm.

What is MOCSI?
The Cal Poly Men & Masculinities Program's Men of Color Success Initiative (MOCSI) supports and advances the potential of undergraduate and graduate men of color at Cal Poly by empowering them with integral skills, community, and knowledge to foster success.  

The Initiative’s goals are to:
• Increase retention and graduation rates for men of color.
• Cultivate identity exploration and holistic development.
• Establish a support network of mentors for men of color.
• Strengthen the sense of community among men of color.

The Initiative accomplishes this through:
• Developmental and culturally-affirming workshops and events.
• Community-building experiences.
• The MOCSI mentorship program.
• Peer support consultations and referrals.

About the Mentorship Program
The Men of Color Success Initiative (MOCSI) Mentorship Program serves to connect undergraduate and graduate men of color at Cal Poly with a dynamic community of peer and faculty/staff mentors who create a network of social, professional and academic support for mentees. This network serves to further develop mentees’ self-understanding, sense of community, engagement, and persistence towards achieving their degree.

About Being a Faculty/Staff Mentor
Faculty and Staff mentors are experienced and thoughtful men of color who are passionate about investing in the next generation of undergraduate and graduate men of color at Cal Poly.

Faculty/Staff Qualifications:
• Cal Poly Faculty or Staff.
• Identify as a man of color.
• Alignment with the mission/goals of MOCSI and the mentorship program.
• Available ~2hrs per week for mentor responsibilities.

As a mentor, you will:
• Develop a strong and supportive relationship with your mentee(s).
• Provide encouragement and open, honest, and positive feedback to your mentee.
• Take a genuine interest in the holistic success of your mentee.
• Connect your mentee with resources and opportunities that support their success.
• Help facilitate high-impact educational and developmental experiences.

Mentor Expectations/Commitments:
• Participate for a full academic year (Fall 2021 - Spring 2022).
• Attend monthly group meetings (first Tuesdays, 5:30-7pm; dinner provided).
• Co-plan and co-lead one monthly group meeting during the year.
• Participate in the Mentor Training Event (10/2, 9-2pm; lunch provided).
• Maintain bi-weekly (every other week) meetings with your mentee(s).
• Submit monthly reports on your experience and mentee(s)’ progress.
• Attend mentor check-in meetings (third Thursdays, 11:10-12pm; lunch provided).
• Attend supplemental program programs/workshops/events as needed.
• TOTAL COMMITMENT: ~2hrs per week during each academic quarter.

Mentor Benefits
• Mentor Starter Kit ($100 value).
• Catered meals during all monthly group and mentor check-in meetings.