CSUSM-UCSD Smoke and Vape Free Scholars Initiative Program for Reducing Tobacco Disease in Diverse Communities (SVFSIP)

To apply to to the program: Application. Email Dr. Kim Pulvers with any questions: kpulvers@csusm.edu . Priority deadline for review of applications is April 15. Applications and letters of recommendation should be submitted by this date for priority review. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.

Welcome to the CSUSM-UCSD Smoke and Vape Free Scholars Initiative Program for Reducing Tobacco Disease in Diverse Communities (SVFSIP). The program is funded by the California Tobacco Related Disease Research Program (TRDRP) and is a partnership between CSUSM and UC San Diego.  

The SVFSIP is mobilizing a new generation of tobacco control researchers and advocates to enact change in their communities. Members of racial/ethnic minoritized, low-income, and LGBTQ+ groups are disproportionately targeted by tobacco companies and affected by tobacco-related disease; students from these tobacco priority population groups are the focus of this training opportunity.

Scholars will spend one year working with a research mentor on an individual prevention or treatment research project. Scholars will also work with a community-based tobacco control specialist on a local advocacy project for a year. Scholars will receive structured education through a research class and weekly seminars and workshops on tobacco control topics and professional development, and receive academic advising, networking, and career guidance.

Eligibility Requirements

1. Member of at least one of the following tobacco priority populations
• Racial/ethnic minoritized: American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian American/Asian, Black or African American, Hispanic or Latinx, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
• Economically disadvantaged (e.g., participated in the National School Lunch Program or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
• LGBTQ+
2. Interest in health research or advocacy
3. Two years remaining to complete an undergraduate or Master’s degree at CSUSM

Program Requirements

1. 15 hours per week devoted to training and education
• Research internship during Year 1 – 10 hours per week
• Advocacy internship during Year 2 – 10 hours per week
• Education in Years 1 and 2 – 5 hours per week including Fridays 12:30PM - 3:30PM
2. Participation in summer research training program at CSUSM in Year 1 and at external university in Year 2
3. Attend scientific meeting to present your research
4. Participate in all CTREE activities

Student Benefits

1. Annual stipend up to $14,760 for two years
2. Up to 50% tuition coverage for two years
3. Obtain "hands-on" research experience with experienced mentor at UCSD, SDSU, CSUSM, or Prevention Research Center, PIRE California
4. Obtain “hands-on” experience in community organization conducting advocacy work with tobacco priority population
5. Travel and conference expenses paid
6. Mentoring by program faculty and staff
7. Networking opportunities
8. Graduate school and career guidance
9. Academic advising and priority registration