October 2026

Ever wondered what it takes to run a top 10 research university? The UC Davis Leadership Job Shadow Program gives undergraduate and graduate students the chance to spend a day with a campus executive. You may observe meetings, attend events, meet staff and faculty, and see how the university works day to day.

What you'll gain:

A better understanding of the university's structure and functions
Connections with campus administrators, staff and faculty
Insight into how leaders have applied their degrees and backgrounds in their work
A closer look at a career in higher education, if that's something you're curious about

How it works:

Fall quarter applications are open now through Monday, October 5.
Participants commit to a full day of shadowing (four-hour or eight-hour blocks), complete an evaluation, and share what they learned with other students.
Students are paired with administrators randomly, and business or business-casual attire is expected.
The program is open to all currently enrolled UC Davis undergraduate and graduate students.

Learn More and Apply

Academic Advising

Annual Advising Requirement Now if Effect

All undergraduate business majors are now required to complete an annual advising requirement each year. The requirement has two parts: an appointment with your academic advisor and one recommended item tied to your year in school. Requirements and deadlines differ by class year, so review the Annual Advising Requirement page to see what applies to you.

Students who don't complete the requirement by their deadline will have a registration hold placed on their record, which will block registration through Schedule Builder in a future quarter. Questions? Email gsm-undergradadvising@ucdavis.edu.

Near-Peer Mentoring Circles for Business Students!

Do you have questions about careers in business and you’re not sure who to ask? Are you looking for a judgment-free space to talk about your hopes, fears and challenges as you make the transition to college student? Do you wish you had someone who understands what you’re going through to ask “dumb” questions?

Our brand-new mentoring experience for GSM students called Mentoring Circles might be right for you. Two MBA mentors will be matched with three to four undergraduate business majors for a small group mentoring experience.

Have a small group to talk over the big life transitions you’re facing
Get to know a couple of MBA students who are a little further along in their life journeys
Get to know more people in your cohort
Learn what makes a good mentoring experience for mentors and mentees
Start building a developmental network

The program is still in the design phase, but look out for a survey to gauge your interest and to help us make a program that all participants will find rewarding. Near the end of Fall quarter, you’ll receive an invitation to join the program.

We hope you’re as excited about this program as we are!

UC Davis Ideas Competition and SparkFest

2026 Ideas Competition

UC Davis undergraduate and graduate students can submit an early idea for a product, service or business that addresses a problem they care about. Students may enter individually or as a team, and up to eight winning entries will receive a $250 gift card. Submissions close October 23 at 1 p.m. Competition details and entry form

SparkFest 2026

Students can join us on October 20th to connect with fellow innovators, celebrate creative ideas, and learn more about opportunities through the Mike and Renée Child Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. 🍕 Free pizza and soda included! Event details and registration

No startup experience or polished business plan is needed to take the first step. We would appreciate your help sharing these links in newsletters, advising conversations, classes, and student group channels.