Spartan Spark

Just like how a spark is defined as something that sets off a sudden force, Spartan Spark signifies a frosh student beginning their incredible journey as a Spartan: bright and brilliant.

New Student and Family Programs acknowledge that the new student transition doesn’t just end after orientation. Our first year engagement program, Spartan Spark, is designed to foster community among the incoming first year student (frosh) class and equip them with the knowledge and resources they need to be successful. Spartan Spark is composed of student teams, each with its own unique nature but connected to the rich history and traditions of San Jose State. The other new students on your team are from your academic college (and some may be in your specific major). Team names will exemplify that connection by paying homage to a prominent SJSU Alumni in that academic area (i.e, Smith Team, Uchida Team, etc). Every new frosh student will be assigned to a team and Mentors who will aid in their transition into the university and Spartan life. 

Each team has a Mentor who is an upper class student ready to guide you this fall on issues like advising, registration dates, add/drop, tutoring and mentoring resources, exam tips, and more. Your Mentor will be sending you tips for success throughout the fall semester via your SJSU email and inviting you to attend on campus events with them as a team.

Vision

To ease the transition from high school to college and support first year students in finding what being a Spartan means to them.

Mission Statement

The mission of Spartan Spark is to support first year students in their transition from high school to San José State University in their first semester by assigning them upperclassmen mentors (OATie Mentors) based on their academic college who will provide guidance, both academically and personally, social support, and insight into what it means to be a Spartan.