Future Student Affairs Professionals

Interested in a career in higher education? This is where you start.

The Future Student Affairs Professionals (FSAP) Program is designed for Montclair State University undergraduate students interested in careers in Student Affairs and Higher Education. Through hands-on learning, mentorship and professional development, you’ll gain real-world insight into the field while building meaningful connections across campus.

Through an application process, 15-20 Montclair students are selected each year to explore careers in Student Affairs and Higher Education through hands-on learning, mentorship and professional development opportunities. Participants shadow departments across campus, build connections with Student Affairs professionals, attend conferences and workshops and gain insight into career pathways within higher education.

Who Should Apply?

  • Montclair State University undergraduate students in their junior or senior year
  • Minimum GPA of 2.75
  • In good standing with the University
  • Interested in Student Affairs and Higher Education

Want to Join FSAP?

How It Works

Faculty and staff may nominate students, but nomination is not required! Students may apply on their own and complete a short application listing involvement, GPA, graduation date and interest in the program.

A committee of Student Affairs and Academic Affairs professionals reviews applications and determines eligibility.


FSAP Program Details

Participants commit to the full academic year, including both the fall and spring semesters. Throughout the program, students attend sessions every three weeks focused on key Student Affairs topics, participate in monthly one-on-one mentorship meetings with Student Affairs professionals and complete pre- and post-assessments to reflect on their growth and development.

The program helps students explore Student Affairs and Higher Education as a career path while building professional skills, confidence and meaningful connections across the University.

What You’ll Gain

  • On-campus shadowing experiences
  • Introduction to Student Affairs as a career path
  • Networking with graduate students and professional staff
  • One-on-one mentorship
  • Career counseling and graduate school preparation
  • Resume and interview support
  • A strong cohort-based community

Curriculum Highlights

  • CliftonStrengths assessment and facilitation
  • Starting Your Path workshop
  • Self-branding workshop
  • History of Higher Education
  • Graduate student and young professionals panel
  • Information on Higher Education graduate programs
  • Understanding DEI in Higher Education
  • Student Affairs campus partner roundtables
  • Networking and Q&A opportunities with university leadership

Additional Benefits

  • Recommendation letter from the Vice President of Student Development and Campus Life
  • Graduation cords
  • Fee waiver for Montclair’s Master of Arts in Higher Education program

Want More Information?

Please reach out to us with questions about the program!

Student Development and Campus Life (SDCL)

Student Development and Campus Life (SDCL) supports your experience beyond the classroom, helping you find community, take care of your well-being and make the most of your time at Montclair State University. From your first day through graduation, you’ll find resources, involvement opportunities and support systems designed to help you succeed, feel a sense of belonging and thrive as a Red Hawk.

Future Student Affairs Professionals