President’s Leadership Fellows Program

President’s Leadership Fellows Program

The President’s Leadership Fellows Program (PLFP) helps students strengthen career readiness skills such as communication, leadership, critical thinking and professionalism, based on NACE standards. The program connects classroom learning with real-world success.

  1. Program History and Purpose

    PLFP is Career and Leadership Development’s signature program, launched in 2014 with generous support from the Eustace-Kwan Family Foundation. What began as a pilot in the College of Business with 25 students has grown into a campus-wide initiative welcoming students from all colleges, including graduate programs. To date, more than 2,000 Gators have completed the program.

    Designed as a fast-paced introduction to leadership and career development, PLFP features interactive workshops focused on essential skills while building the confidence and professional abilities that employers seek. Fellows are encouraged to actively participate, engage in reflection and communication exercises, and learn to articulate their unique strengths and stories.

    Students who complete the program earn a Certificate of Completion and become part of SFSU’s expanding Leadership Development network.

  2. Requirements for Eligibility

    The program is open to currently enrolled full-time juniors, seniors, and graduate students. Attendance at all sessions is required to receive the Certificate of Completion. 

  3. Program Commitments

    • The PLFP cohort meets for seven sessions on select Wednesdays from 12:15 to 1:45 p.m. in Rosa Parks A-C, Student Center.  
    • Attendance and active participation are expected. Please only apply if it works with your class schedule.  

    Bring curiosity, energy, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. You’ll leave each session with new insights and connections to fuel your next steps.

  4. Selection Process

    Applicants selected into the program will be notified of their acceptance in the days following our application deadline. Students accepted into the program will be notified via SFSU e-mail, Handshake, and cell phone if a number is provided in the application.

  5. Upcoming Program Dates/Times

    PLFP fall 2026 Schedule to be announced.

  6. Frequently Asked Questions
    • Who can apply? 
      Full-time juniors, seniors, and graduate students from all majors and colleges are welcome.
    • I just transferred, can I apply? 
      Yes! Transfer students entering their junior year are eligible to participate.
    • Are there requirements to apply? 
      You must be available for every session (Wednesdays, 12:15 – 1:45 p.m.) for the duration of the program.
    • Is there a cost to join? 
      No. PLFP is free and open to all eligible students.
    • Do I need prior experience? 
      Not at all, PLFP is designed for students at all stages of career and leadership development.
    • Can I attend remotely? 
      No. PLFP is fully in-person to ensure the best experience in networking, collaboration, and mentorship.
    • Where are sessions held? 
      All sessions are in Rosa Parks A–C, Student Center. Attendance is mandatory to earn the certificate.
    • What should I bring? 
      Bring a notebook, pen, and open mindset. Some sessions may also use digital tools such as LinkedIn, Handshake, or Hiration — you’ll be notified in advance.

  7. How to Apply

    Applications will be sent to all currently enrolled junior, senior, and graduate level students via their SFSU campus email (ends with @sfsu.edu or @mail.sfsu.edu). 

    Applications open end of Fall 2025 semester. 

Benefits of Joining President's Leadership Fellows Program (PLFP)

Questions?

plfp@sfsu.edu

Kylie Schneider 
Student Engagement and Leadership Programs Coordinator