MSA Program Coordinator, Gerardo Cuevas, speaks to CSUDH students during the “Habits of the Mind, Habits of Success” Seminar on September 1 in Carson, CA. Courtesy of the Male Success Alliance

By Val Contreras, Staff Writer

The Male Success Alliance (MSA) is now accepting applications for their Social Justice Scholars program, which gives $3,000 and job placement to a few lucky freshman and transfer students. The club announced this new initiative at their “Habits of the Mind, Habits of Success” seminar held at CSUDH Laser Recital Hall on Sept. 1. 

Some of the eligibility requirements for this program include applicants that must be freshman or transfer students in order to apply and maintain a 3.0 or above GPA. Applicants must also volunteer for their K-12 Summer Literacy Program, and participate in their Holistic Development 101 course.

Gerardo Cuevas, MSA Program Coordinator, has been diligently recruiting new students to become members of the club and take advantage of the scholars program. 

“It’s a two-year program…and we’re pulling from [operations] that make sense and work,” Cuevas said.

The on-campus job placement helps keep students aware of the resources and opportunities available to them, while also gaining a professional role in college, says Cuevas. It is that leadership quality that the Social Justice Scholars program aims to embrace.

One of the program’s goals is to create a new generation of leaders that are aware of the harsh realities in society. Participants are encouraged to make a meaningful impact within the community in an effort to offset systemic inequality. 

MSA wants to provide an atmosphere where students can connect, network, and build relationships whether educational or professional. MSA provides support, mentoring, and professional development and helps a variety of CSUDH students from freshman to graduates. 

Justin Ortiz, senior Kinesiology major, has been a member of MSA since 2017 and spoke on the club’s importance to Toros. 

“It’s essential…[to CSUDH] because incoming students have something that’s going to help them in different areas like academics, exposure [to opportunities], networking…and traveling,” says Ortiz. The Social Justice Scholars program application deadline is Friday, Sept. 24 and those interested can apply HERE.