The Leadership Job Shadow Program is more than just a chance for students to spend one-on-one time with UC Davis officials. As recent participants in the program learned, it’s a way to see what their jobs are really like and gain more information about potential career options.

“My biggest takeaway from my shadowing experience is that behind every campus-wide change is a room full of people debating the impact on students and faculty,” said Jacob Dick, an environmental engineering major who spent a day with College of Engineering Dean Rich Corsi. “Seeing the human side of these executive decisions gave me a deeper respect for the consideration that goes into shaping our academic environment.” 

Apply for the program

Applications are open now through Oct. 5, closing at 11:59 p.m.

In the program, students accompany the university leaders to meetings, spend one-on-one time with them and can have discussions ranging from how their jobs work to individualized career advice.

Here’s what some other students said about the program:

Logan Green 

Political science and psychology major
Shadowed Simon Atkinson, vice chancellor for research 

“One of the highlights of the experience was attending the Rally for California Science at the State Capitol where university leaders, researchers, students and public officials came together to advocate for scientific research and public investment in higher education. As someone interested in public policy and higher education, this experience deepened my appreciation for the work that happens behind the scenes to advance research for the public good.” 

Green posted more about his experience on LinkedIn.

Daniel Deaver  

Political science - public service and classical civilizations major
Shadowed Mabel Salon, chief government and community relations officer

“Shadowing Mabel was an awesome opportunity, allowing me to get a raw, unfiltered look at what public service can look like, particularly in working with political officials. I had the chance to meet Mabel’s staff, who provided heartfelt advice and recommendations based on their own experiences at UC Davis.” 

Jenavive Lindayen 

Psychology major
Shadowed Aisha Jackson, chief information and digital strategy executive 

“I had the ultimate privilege of shadowing Aisha Jackson, UC Davis’ first chief information and digital strategy executive. I learned that Aisha's role is essential to organizing how UC Davis works, especially with the ever-changing industries of technology and AI. Part of her job is to unite UC Davis by creating an IT governance framework that sets the same shared standards for all areas of the school. Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful that Aisha imparted so much invaluable advice to me as an undergraduate transfer student. It was inspiring to see how the school’s administration runs behind the scenes. I am excited to continue learning more and broadening my horizons!”

Kelly Valdez 

Environmental Engineering major
Shadowed Julie Nola, associate vice chancellor of Design and Construction Management and university architect 

“Throughout the day, I attended meetings alongside the associate vice chancellor, learning about campus planning and growth outside of Davis, including the development of the Moving Forward Together sustainable transportation plan and the new Janice K. Hobbs Veterinary Medical Center. The opportunity to attend meetings with the chancellor, provost and project managers was very valuable, as I experienced how the university works behind the scenes to make planning decisions.”