Helen Rucker Center for Black Excellence

Mandla Success Academy

The Helen Rucker Center for Black Excellence is proud to offer the Mandla Success Academy, an early arrival summer program, to help incoming freshmen and transfer students adjust to college life and prepare for success at CSUMB before their first semester. Mandla is a South African word meaning "strength" and "power". Mandla Scholars will move into their on-campus housing assignments early and participate in 4-5 days of activities and workshops to set them up for success as college students at Cal State Monterey Bay. Mandla Success Academy Scholars will:

• Learn about campus resources and become familiar with university procedures and expectations
• Build community with peers, student leaders and mentors that you can relate to 
• Explore campus and find your classes before the start of the semester
• Become acquainted with the local community and find your "must haves" in your new home away from home
• Develop the organization, time management and study skills needed for college success
• Develop toolkits for social and emotional wellbeing as a college student
• Engage in culturally empowering activities and events

The Helen Rucker Center for Black Excellence will cover all of the program cost for each participant as long as the participant completes all of the program requirements. 

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to HRCBE@csumb.edu