U Mentor

About U-Mentor

The U-Mentor Program is designed to connect Sac State students with vital resources and services through campus-wide mentorship. Our mission is to foster connection, belonging, and opportunities for students to meet their academic, professional, and personal goals through nurturing and supportive relationships. Mentors help students with academics, social transitions, career exploration, skill building, leadership, and personal development.

Information For Mentors

Mentors are Sac State faculty and staff dedicated to guiding students through their university journey. By participating as a mentor, you’ll build close relationships with students, gain greater job satisfaction, and help advance Sac State’s goals for student retention and graduation. Mentors provide advice, share university insights, and support students in achieving their full potential.

Information For Mentees

Mentees are students who join the program seeking connection, guidance, and support as they navigate university life. Through mentorship, mentees can expand their professional networks, enhance emotional intelligence, gain knowledge of Sac State’s culture, and receive constructive feedback to aid their academic, personal, and career development.

Benefits of Mentorship

Mentorship offers powerful benefits to both mentors and mentees. Mentees develop skills in networking, communication, and problem-solving while gaining confidence in their university experience. Mentors enjoy the reward of supporting student success, fostering inclusivity, and enhancing their own professional fulfillment.

Mentorship Resources

How to Become a Mentor

Sac State faculty and staff interested in becoming mentors can complete a simple online application to join our U-Mentor community. Once matched with a student, you’ll receive guidance and resources to help foster a successful mentoring relationship.

👉 Apply to become a mentor

For any questions, you can reach out to Gulzar at gshamurzaeva@csus.edu or 916-278-6807

How to Get the Mentor Relationship Going (for Mentees)

Once matched with a mentor, mentees should schedule an introductory meeting to set goals and expectations. Be open about your challenges and aspirations. Use provided resources and check-ins to build a strong and positive relationship that supports your success at Sac State.

Mentorship Event & Workshop Ideas

Fall 2025

Welcome & Connect: Kickoff Mixer
📅 September 12, 2025
📝 Theme: Building Your Sac State Network
An informal mixer where mentors and mentees meet, network, and set the tone for the year.2️⃣ Navigating Challenges: Academic & Personal Growth

Panel
📅 November 5, 2025
📝 Theme: Strategies for Success at Sac State
A panel featuring faculty, staff, and student leaders sharing advice on managing stress, staying motivated, and balancing responsibilities.

Spring 2026

Career Conversations: Mentorship for Your Future
📅 February 20, 2026
📝 Theme: Exploring Career Paths with Your Mentor
Interactive discussions and activities focused on professional development, internships, and career readiness.2️⃣ Celebrate & Reflect: Mentorship

Showcase
📅 April 24, 2026
📝 Theme: Success Stories and Lessons Learned
An end-of-year gathering where participants share their experiences, accomplishments, and feedback to improve the program.

Alina Quintana

Alina Quintana
Career Center
Career Development Advisor

Darcy Fudge Kamal

Darcy Fudge Kamal (she/her/hers)
Strategy and Entrepreneurship, Assistant Professor

Amy Wallace

Amy Wallace
Office of the Provost
Associate Vice President – Academic Excellence

Donna Jensen, PhD, LCSW, MSW

Donna Jensen, PhD, LCSW, MSW
Gerontology Department
Chair & Associate Professor

Dr. Araceli Feliz

Dr. Araceli Feliz
Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership & Policy Studies
Graduate and Professional Studies in Education| College of Education