Sista Circle Mentorship Program 2026-2027: Support for Doctoral Students
Applications are now open for the Sista Circle Mentorship Program (SCMP) 2026-2027. This program is designed to support doctoral students in their first and second years, with a special focus on Black women and nonbinary scholars. The program runs from September 2026 to April 2027 and offers culturally responsive support and professional development.
Application Closing Date: August 1, 2026
Location: U.S.-based doctoral programs
Programme Duration: September 2026 – April 2027
Stipend: Raffle for a $500 gift card or one-year membership upon completion
Minimum Qualification: Enrolled in a U.S.-based research doctoral program (PhD, EdD, DrPH, etc.)
Opportunity Type: Mentorship Program
About the Sista Circle Mentorship Program
The Sista Circle Mentorship Program (SCMP) is a key initiative by Cohort Sistas. Its main goal is to help historically underrepresented doctoral students succeed, stay in their programs, and develop leadership skills. The program specifically aims to support Black women and nonbinary scholars in their early years of doctoral study.
Participants will join biweekly small-group mentorship circles. These circles are led by Black women PhDs who provide guidance and support. The program focuses on academic belonging, career development, and building a strong community among scholars.
About Cohort Sistas
Cohort Sistas is the organization behind the Sista Circle Mentorship Program. They are dedicated to supporting the academic and professional journeys of doctoral students. Their initiatives aim to create inclusive environments and provide resources for students who may face unique challenges in their academic careers.
Available Mentorship Opportunities
The Sista Circle Mentorship Program is open to doctoral students in any discipline. The program focuses on providing structured support and peer connection.
What the Mentorship Program Offers
Successful participants in the SCMP will gain several benefits:
- Biweekly 1-hour mentorship meetings with experienced Black women PhDs.
- Culturally responsive support tailored to the needs of underrepresented scholars.
- Peer connection and networking opportunities with fellow doctoral students.
- Access to monthly professional development workshops.
- Entry into a raffle for a $500 gift card or a one-year membership upon full program completion and survey participation.
- A vibrant community of like-minded scholars and mentors.
Programme Duration and Location
The 2026-2027 cohort of the Sista Circle Mentorship Program will run from September 2026 through April 2027. The program is designed for students currently enrolled in U.S.-based research doctoral programs. Specific locations for mentorship meetings will be determined within the program structure.
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for the Sista Circle Mentorship Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be currently enrolled in a U.S.-based research doctoral program (e.g., PhD, EdD, DrPH) in any field.
- Be in their first or second year of study as of Fall 2026.
- Be able to commit to attending biweekly 1-hour mentorship meetings.
- Agree to participate fully in all program activities and complete program surveys.
- Have, or plan to activate, an annual Doctoral Students membership. This can be self-funded, sponsored by their institution, or obtained through a scholarship.
Competencies Required
While not explicitly listed as formal competencies, successful participants will likely benefit from:
- A willingness to engage in peer learning and mentorship.
- Commitment to personal and professional development.
- Openness to receiving and providing support within a community.
- Ability to manage time effectively to attend meetings and workshops.
Who Should Apply?
This mentorship program is ideal for doctoral students in their first or second year who are seeking additional support and community. It is particularly beneficial for Black women and nonbinary scholars who may be looking for culturally responsive guidance and peer connections within their academic journey. If you want to enhance your academic belonging and career development, this program could be a good fit.
Required Documents
Applicants will need to complete an online application form. While specific documents are not listed for upload, applicants should be prepared to provide information about their academic enrollment and status. It is advisable to have details about your doctoral program and your membership status ready.
How to Apply
Interested students can apply for the Sista Circle Mentorship Program by clicking the provided link. Ensure you have your program details and membership information ready before starting the application.
Click here to apply for the Sista Circle Mentorship Program 2026-2027.
For further information, you can visit the Sista Circle Mentorship Program page.
Important Notes
Only candidates who complete the full program with high attendance and finish the program surveys will be entered into the raffle for the gift card or membership. Applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria before applying. The program is designed to provide support and development opportunities.
Closing Date
The application deadline for the Sista Circle Mentorship Program 2026-2027 is August 1, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before this date.
SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS.
Conversation
0 Comments