Have you been accepted as an international student at Diablo Valley College?
Congratulations! You're about to start an amazing journey, and we're ready to support you at every step of the way. Check out our Pre-arrival Handbook and explore our many resources for current students!
Resources
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No matter what type of support you need, you'll find it here at DVC!
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Program Description
The Global Connect Mentorship Program (GCMP) is a dynamic mentorship initiative that pairs experienced DVC students, faculty, and staff with new international students who share similar majors, interests, and goals. The mission of the program is to foster meaningful connections between mentors and mentees, promote cross-cultural understanding, encourage diversity, and support personal growth.
The program is designed to assist new international students adjusting to academic life in the U.S. and integrating into the DVC community. By providing academic resources and social support, mentors help their mentees transition smoothly into their new environment.
Benefits of Being a Mentor
- Foster Connections: Mentors will have the opportunity to connect with new international students, fellow mentors, and ISO staff, building a welcoming and supportive community.
- Make a Lasting Impact: By sharing your experience at DVC, mentors can guide mentees through academic inquiries, campus life, and cultural adjustments, helping them feel welcomed and supported.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Mentoring provides a unique opportunity to enhance leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Enhance Your Resume: The mentorship experience is an impressive addition to your resume or university transfer applications, demonstrating your commitment to helping others and your leadership abilities.
- Strengthen Cross-Cultural Competence: Mentors will have the chance to engage with students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a deeper understanding and global perspectives.
- Community Contribution: Be part of an initiative that actively helps new international students integrate into campus life, promoting inclusivity and diversity at DVC.
Benefits of Being a Mentee
- Personal Connections: As a mentee, you'll be paired with a mentor who has walked in your shoes before. They'll not only provide academic support but will also be a true friend who can help you navigate the campus and U.S. lifestyle.
- Academic Support: Mentors will help you choose classes, understand campus resources, and provide guidance on transfer options, making your academic journey smoother.
- Engagement in Campus Life: You'll have the opportunity to participate in activities with your mentor, such as student club events, social gatherings, and more. This will help you form meaningful connections and feel a sense of belonging.
- Cultural Adjustment: With the help of your mentor, you will get accustomed to the cultural differences, overcome any challenges, and integrate into the DVC community.
- Guidance on Career and Transfer: Your mentor will provide insights into transfer and career opportunities, and general advice on how to navigate academic and personal development at DVC.
How to Apply
- Mentor Application: If you are an experienced DVC student interested in becoming a mentor, fill out the Spring 2025 Mentor Application.
- Mentee Application: New international students can apply for a mentor by completing the Spring 2025 Mentee Application.
Whether you are an experienced student looking to give back or a new international student seeking guidance and community, the GCMP offers opportunities for growth and connection. Join us today and be a part of a community that will support you to succeed!
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DVC is one of 18 community colleges in the U.S. (and the only in Northern California) selected to be part of the Transfer Scholars Network (TSN). The TSN connects talented community college students like you with dedicated admissions staff from up to 18 highly selective colleges and universities nationwide via a virtual platform. Staff members at the institutions you indicate an interest in will then work with you to ensure you have the resources and support you need to navigate the transfer admissions process. Each of these institutions has committed to expanding access to—and ensuring the success of—community college transfer students nationwide. If you are nominated, you'll receive personal connections with and ongoing support from admissions leaders at highly selective colleges and universities in the US.
Please note: as an F-1 international student, you may not be eligible to receive financial aid if you are admitted to a TSN four-year partner. However, you can use the TSN resources to help you apply.
To receive an invitation to join the TSN, you must be nominated by DVC and meet the following eligibility criteria. Completing this form does not guarantee you will be invited to join the TSN.
- Must have completed at least one semester at DVC.
- Demonstrated academic achievement, typically after at least one semester of community college enrollment or in your second year of study.
- High GPAs, typically 3.5, 3.75, or 4.0+.
- Diverse life, leadership, professional or service experiences within your community college, or where you live.
- Students who intend to transfer to a four-year institution for the first time after community college.
- Students who are likely to apply in spring 2026 to transfer in fall 2026 or in 2027.
If you are nominated, you will receive a letter that includes details on how to join the Transfer Scholars Network.
If you are selected to join the TSN, you will be able to connect with any of the four-year colleges and universities participating in the initiative. However, please note that you must still submit a formal application to those institutions. Also, please note that joining this initiative does not guarantee admission to a four-year institution.
More information about the TSN is available at transferscholars.org/.
Visit the TSN website for a current list of partner colleges and universities.
Apply Now to be Nominated