Next Gen Pathways
Welcome to Next Gen Pathways, a transformative mentoring program designed to help incoming graduate students navigate the complexities of grad school and uncover the hidden curriculum essential for success. Transitioning from undergraduate studies to a graduate program can be daunting, with new academic challenges, increased expectations, and a plethora of unspoken norms. Next Gen Pathways aims to bridge this gap by providing support, experienced mentors, and comprehensive resources to ensure every new graduate student not only survives but thrives in their academic journey.
Next Gen Pathways has undergone a profound evolution since its inception. In 2023, during our pilot year, we initially tailored our efforts exclusively towards supporting first-generation students. However, through this journey, we discovered an invaluable insight – the significance of the hidden curriculum and the imperative for inclusion.
The hidden curriculum encompasses the unwritten rules, norms, and social cues that often govern academic and professional environments. For first-generation students, navigating this unspoken realm can be particularly challenging. Thanks to our partnership with Mentor Collective we were able to thoroughly review our pilot year's data which illuminated how crucial it is to address these implicit aspects alongside academic support.
Recognizing the diverse needs of all incoming graduate students, we've expanded our program to embrace inclusivity fully. By doing so, we ensure that no student feels marginalized or left behind in their journey towards academic success. Our commitment to inclusion extends beyond merely acknowledging differences; it entails actively creating an environment where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered.
Our Program:
At Next Gen Pathways, we understand that the path to academic success is not just about mastering coursework but also navigating the intricacies of graduate life. Central to our program is the power of mentorship, where experienced individuals offer guidance, support, and wisdom to those embarking on this transformative journey.
What sets Next Gen Pathways apart is our recognition of the diversity of experiences among graduate students. We believe that effective mentorship transcends traditional boundaries and flourishes on the foundation of shared life experiences. Whether you're a first-generation student, an international scholar, or someone with a unique background, our mentoring relationships are tailored to accommodate and celebrate these differences.
In our program, mentorship is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, it's a dynamic and flexible relationship built on mutual respect and understanding. Mentors offer not only academic guidance but also empathetic support, drawing from their own journeys to provide relevant insights and perspectives.
Goals:
- Connect first-year graduate students with relevant mentors and resources
- Support retention and sense of belonging for first-year graduate students
- Support and provide mental health services for participants
Feedback from our pilot year:
“Mentors have gotten me to where I am now. These networks of mentorship has been the pillars that have uplifted me through the difficult transitions and obstacles that come with navigating higher Ed. Becoming a mentor, to me, is just part the work of paying it forward."
“I owe my entire graduate student career to the mentorship I received and I would love to be that mentor for someone else!”
“My mentor has helped me get a holistic view on networking in a social as well as corporate setting. She explained about 'elevator speech' and how it can really leave an impact, making you stand out amongst the others.”
Team Member Contacts
Rosie Victor identifies as a first-generation DACAmented Latina. She received her Master of Science degree in Higher Education at CSUF. Rosie works at UCI's Graduate and Postdoctoral Scholar Resource Center (GPSRC) creating events and professional development opportunities for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars.
Rosie enjoys working with students, sharing her story and experiences in higher education, and providing students with resources and motivation to pursue their degrees and succeed professionally and academically.
Karen Friedlander was a first-generation college student as a triple major at Springfield College for Dance, Communications/Sports Journalism, and English. She received her Master of Arts in Higher Education Leadership from the University of San Diego. Her research was on how to enhance the graduate student experience outside of the classroom. Karen was thrilled to continue to support the graduate student experience in her role in Graduate Division as the Operations Manager for the GPSRC – Graduate & Postdoctoral Scholar Resource Center.
Professor Smith has been with UCI since 2007. In the Drama Department, she teaches lighting design for theater, live events, theme parks, and architecture. Since joining UCI, she has endeavored to look for opportunities to improve students’ lives and help them thrive holistically. Creating a transparent pathway through graduate school is a priority for her. She has been with the Graduate Division since 2020 and greatly enjoys working on solving big-picture problems.