2025-2026 SPARK: First-Year Peer Mentoring Program for Undocumented Students at SJSU

The SPARK (Spartans Promoting Advocacy, Resources, and Knowledge) peer mentoring program is an initiative designed to empower and support first-year undocumented students (FTF and Transfers) in their academic journey at SJSU and beyond. Through mentor-mentee connections, community-building activities, and informative workshops, SPARK strives to cultivate a nurturing environment that kindles a sense of belonging and empowerment amongst UndocuSpartans. Additionally, students will receive holistic support to help them navigate personal and academic barriers that they may encounter due to their immigration status. 

Components of the program:
As part of the SPARK program, first-year students will:

  • Participate in the SPARK Summer Academy (Monday, July 21st - Friday, July 25th, 2025).
  • Attend 1:1 meetings with a peer mentor throughout the academic year.
  • Attend at least two UndocuSpartan sponsored events per semester
  • Engage in community-building socials hosted by peer mentors
  • Develop a personalized success plan that supports transition to campus and college life.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be a newly accepted undergraduate, first-year student (First time freshman, transfer, or re-entry).
  • Must be matriculated and enrolled for Fall 2025, at least part-time.
  •  Priority is given to those who are undocumented (this includes those with DACA, TPS, pending asylum, SIJS etc).
  • Must be able to attend the in-person 2025 SPARK Summer Academy (Monday, July 21st - Friday, July 25th, 2025).
  • Commit to completing the components of the program.
About the SPARK Summer Academy 
Save the Date: Monday, July 21st - Friday, July 25th (Overnight and in-person)
Students admitted to the peer mentoring program will be invited to join us prior to the start of the academic year for the SPARK Summer Academy. Throughout the course of a week, SPARK students will have the opportunity to stay on campus and engage in a number of activities/workshops that center the undocumented student experience in higher education. Participants will also get the opportunity to connect with their peer mentors and build community prior to their first semester.  
 
Deadline to apply: June 13th, 2025 @ 11:59pm
We encourage early applications!
 
Want to learn more about SPARK?
There are different ways you can learn about the program and the resources available to undocumented students at SJSU. 
Fridays: 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
April 11th, 18th, 25th
May 2nd, 9th, and 16th