DAVIS, Calif. - More than a thousand student-athletes from across the nation applied to attend this year's Career in Sports Forum, an annual educational forum hosted by the NCAA. Junior midfielder Mari Pastor will represent UC Davis at this four-day event, taking place in Indianapolis later this week, as one of 200 student-athletes who were selected to attend.

A committee comprised of administrators from member institutions, conference offices and affiliate member organizations handpicked this year's Forum participants. 

Pastor's announcement marks the second time in as many years that a student-athlete from the women's soccer program will visit the NCAA national office - site of this year's Forum, which will take place from June 4-7.

This unique event is designed to assist student-athletes in chartering their career paths, as well as provide an opportunity to learn from current athletics professionals. All undergraduates will learn and explore potential careers in sports, with a primary focus on intercollegiate athletics.

"I first heard about the Forum from Taylor Jern, who attended last year. I was excited to hear that (head women's soccer coach Twila Kaufman) nominated me," said Pastor.

Pastor was one of 10 UC Davis student-athletes who were nominated by their head coach, a staff member or administrator.

Like her father, Pastor hopes to compete professionally once her career at UC Davis concludes. However, the communication and psychology major is working just as hard to prepare for a career that incorporates her athletic and academic interests.

"I have always aspired to follow my dad's footsteps, and would like to coach once I am done playing soccer. I am also interested in helping out individuals who are struggling with mental illnesses and would like to help end the negative stigma behind this health condition," Pastor said. "This is why the field of sports psychology also interests me."

Pastor is heavily involved in Active Minds, an advocacy group that strives to raise awareness regarding mental health issues and mental illnesses. Like other chapters across the country, Active Minds strives to provide students with information about campus and community resources, and encourages students to seek help as soon as it is needed.

As is the case with the parent non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., the UC Davis chapter works tirelessly to help end the negative stigma behind talking about mental illnesses.

"I cannot wait to meet other student-athletes, speak with as many professionals and administrators in college athletics as possible," Pastor said. "I just need to finish an essay, study for, and take two midterms before I leave."

In addition to the Career in Sports Forum, the NCAA hosts a wide array of programming designed to enhance skills sets and prepare student-athletes and administrators for leadership opportunities. The NCAA Leadership Development group oversees the leadership and grant programs, along with the development of various types of membership resources. Visit  ncaa.org for addition information on NCAA Leadership Development programs.