Students participating in the Leadership Job Shadow Program at UC Davis are learning about more than just who does what at the upper levels of the university.

“The most surprising thing I learned during my shadow experience was the breadth of topics the chancellor manages and oversees,” said Jordan Pantano, a student double majoring in political science and community and regional development. She shadowed Chancellor Gary S. May. “It was surprising to see the chancellor's involvement in topics such as campus planning and development, research, campus initiatives, budgeting and financing, and healthcare.”

Pantano said she learned that overseeing the university brings with it much more than students might see on a day-to-day basis, giving her a new outlook on the chancellor’s role.

Applications for the Leadership Job Shadow Program open Thursday (March 27).

Here are what other students said about the Leadership Job Shadow Program:

Tarikha Ganesh

Undergraduate managerial economics major
Shadowed Chief Innovation and Economic Development Officer George Baxter

“One of the most surprising things about my shadowing experience was realizing how many teams are involved in completing a large project like Aggie Square. I met a diverse range of people, including community leaders, venture capitalists, and individuals involved in research.”

Julissa de Gonzalez

MBA student
Shadowed Vice Provost and Dean of Global Affairs Joanna Regulska

“It was surprising to see the broad array of global opportunities that are available to students, and how the team at Global Affairs is very intentional to ensure there are diverse, accessible and inclusive experiences for all. ... I really enjoyed being able to meet and learn from the various staff that work at Global Affairs and the various projects that impact students and the community at large. It was great to learn about the City of Sacramento’s 2024 Voluntary Local Review on the UN Sustainable Development Goals.”

Ociano Lazo

Undergraduate biological psychology major
Shadowed Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Mary Croughan

“As an aspiring pre-med student, my greatest takeaway was certainly the knowledge Provost Croughan shared regarding medical school. She walked me through the prioritized opportunities that I should be taking advantage of and did an excellent job of going into great detail.

“The most memorable part of my day was undeniably the personal conversations that took place with Provost Croughan. I really appreciated how honest and transparent she was with me throughout especially difficult conversations and I did my best at reciprocating the authenticity. I had the opportunity to learn about Provost Croughan aside from solely academics and professional development. Learning about her passion for guide-trained Labrador dogs, her descent from Ireland, and even how a U was mistakenly inserted into her last name made the experience all the more special. I could not have asked for a more personable and kind leader to shadow. Provost Croughan is the best of the best.”

Maia Zhu

Undergraduate cognitive science and communication double major
Shadowed Athletic Director Rocko DeLuca

“I loved just getting to be a fly on the wall and observing office dynamics and see plans be made in real time. From thinking about the stadium seating and the speaker system to creating academic driven programs for student athletes, there are so many little details that he has to think about and make a plan for.”