Introduction to the SF BRIDGE Program

The SF BRIDGE program offers a unique opportunity for San Francisco State University (SFSU) students interested in becoming insider researchers to learn about health research, policy, and advocacy from UCSF and SFSU faculty. Insider researchers are individuals who have lived experience with priority populations and community cultural wealth. Participants engage in hands-on learning using San Francisco as a living lab and participate in real-life experiences.

Program Goals

The program's goal is to provide a clarion call for young scholars from priority populations to join the workforce and engage in tobacco control research. This domain, like other biomedical research areas, systemically excludes aspiring scholars due to ethnicity and race.

Program Components

The program consists of several components:

• Fall: Enrollment in the "SF as a Living Lab" class at SFSU, followed by an application at the end of the course.
• Spring: Interviews and educational enhancement activities take place.
• Summer (three months): Scholars enroll in an internship with educational material in clinical research, tobacco prevention, and health policy. They meet postdoctoral scholars and mentors at the Center for Tobacco Research and Education at the end of summer.
• Fall (four months): Scholars choose a lab and engage in research.
• Spring (four months): Scholars engage with community-based organizations as part of the Health Policy Advocacy Institute. They develop factsheets for the community-based organization to use as part of advocacy for their clientele.

Prerequisites

To qualify for the SF BRIDGE program, a student must be from San Francisco State University and have completed a course in ethnic studies called "SF as a Living Lab" by Rama Ali Kased, MS, EdD.

Program Stipend

All scholars admitted to the SF BRIDGE program receive a stipend package. Stipends vary per student.

Program Team

The program team includes:

• Post Doctoral Near Peer mentors:
  • Sabrina Islam, PhD, MS
  • Jelena Mustra Rakic, PhD
  • Deanna Halliday, PhD
  • Dan Kabella, PhD
  • Karla Llanes, PhD
• Faculty:
  • Rama Ali Kased, MS, EdD, Principal Investigator, SFSU
  • Kala Mehta, DSc, MPH, Principal Investigator, UCSF
  • Kelechi Uwaezuoke, Program Director, SFSU
  • Pam Ling, MD, MPH, Senior Advisor and Mentor, UCSF
  • Leticia Marquez-Magana, MS, PhD, Senior Advisor, SFSU
  • Kathleen Franklin, Postdoctoral Coordinator
  • Maya Vijayaragavan, MD, MAS, Assistant Professor, Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education
  • Dorie Apollonio, PhD, MPP, Professor, Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education

Program Funding

The SF BRIDGE program is funded by the UC Office of the President Tobacco and Vape Free Scholars Initiative.

University of California San Francisco

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Overview:

University of California San Francisco (UCSF) is a renowned public research university located in San Francisco, California. It is a leading institution in the fields of health sciences, biomedical research, and patient care. UCSF is known for its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and its dedication to improving human health.

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Services Offered:

UCSF offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Calendar:

Provides information on academic schedules and important dates.

Career Center:

Assists students with career exploration, job searching, and professional development.

Financial Aid:

Offers financial assistance to eligible students through scholarships, grants, and loans.

General Catalog:

Contains detailed information about academic programs, policies, and resources.

Library:

Provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and other research materials.

Registrar:

Handles student records, registration, and graduation.

Student Success Guide:

Offers resources and support services to help students succeed academically and personally.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-Class Faculty:

UCSF boasts a faculty of renowned researchers, clinicians, and educators who are leaders in their fields.

Cutting-Edge Research:

The university is at the forefront of biomedical research, with groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in various areas of health sciences.

Exceptional Patient Care:

UCSF is home to a world-class medical center that provides comprehensive and compassionate care to patients.

Vibrant Campus Community:

UCSF offers a diverse and supportive campus community with a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation.

Location in San Francisco:

The university's location in San Francisco provides students with access to a vibrant city with numerous cultural, entertainment, and career opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

UCSF offers a wide range of academic programs across its various schools, including:

School of Dentistry:

Offers programs in dentistry, oral health, and dental research.

School of Medicine:

Provides education and training in medicine, biomedical research, and public health.

School of Pharmacy:

Offers programs in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, and drug discovery.

School of Nursing:

Provides education and training in nursing, nursing research, and healthcare leadership.

Graduate Division:

Offers graduate programs in various disciplines, including biomedical sciences, public health, and bioengineering.

Global Health Sciences:

Focuses on global health issues and provides training and research opportunities in this field.

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Other: