Welcome to Sista Circle Mentorship Program!

Apply For the 2024-2025 Cohort

The Sista Circle Mentorship Program is a culturally tailored, small-group mentorship initiative designed to support women* and non-binary doctoral students from historically excluded groups. Our program aims to improve participants' academic and professional skills, socio-emotional outcomes, and degree completion rates. By joining the Sista Circle Mentorship Program, mentees will have an opportunity to enhance their sense of belonging, boost their confidence, and expand their community of peers and mentors who understand the unique challenges of navigating academia as a woman or nonbinary person of color.

Mentees in the Sista Circle Mentorship Program are matched with a mentor and a cohort of other doctoral students in related academic disciplines for the academic year. Eligible mentees are first and second-year doctoral students enrolled in accredited PhD, EdD, DrPH, or PsyD degree programs (or similar research-based doctoral programs) in the United States.

Eligible mentors are Black women* doctoral degree holders in any discipline. We encourage mentor applications from doctoral degree holders working both inside and outside of academia.

Don’t miss this chance to join a supportive community dedicated to your success during your doctoral journey and beyond. Apply to join the Sista Circle Mentorship Program today!

*By 'women,' we include cis women, trans women, femmes, nonbinary people, and gender nonconforming people.

Why Become a Mentor?

  • Inspire Future Scholars: Make a significant impact by guiding the next generation of women and nonbinary doctoral students.
  • Gain Leadership Experience: Develop your mentorship skills by supporting mentees through their academic and professional challenges.
  • Contribute to Diversity and Inclusion: Play a crucial role in fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for future scholars.

Why Become a Mentee?

  • Enhance Your Confidence and Belonging: Overcome imposter syndrome and connect with peers and mentors who understand your unique experiences.
  • Expand Your Network: Build a strong network of peers and mentors who will support you through your doctoral journey and beyond.
  • Personal and Professional Growth: Benefit from a tailored curriculum designed to help you grow both personally and professionally.

Before getting involved in the Sista Circle Mentorship program, I felt alone in my doctoral journey. Through this program, I have received resources and fellowships that have encouraged me to keep going. I feel prepared to enter my second year!
Sista Circle 2022 Mentee