We are Slugs

UC Santa Cruz is committed to maintaining a campus environment where all students can thrive—free from discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, and sexual violence. In accordance with federal and state law, as well as University of California policy, all new and returning students are required to complete annual education on these topics. As part of this effort, all incoming students must complete both:

• Slugs CARE during Welcome Week
• SHAPE as part of the We Are Slugs! program

These trainings provide critical information about consent, bystander intervention, student rights and responsibilities, campus policies, and available resources. Together, they support our shared goal of fostering a consent-focused culture and a safer, more respectful community.

Alternative Training Options for Survivors:  We recognize that the content of these trainings may be difficult for students with a personal history of sexual or relationship violence. While the training is mandatory, an alternate option is available. To request an alternate format, please email care@ucsc.edu with the subject line: “Alternate SHAPE Request”

Using a story-first approach to engage our student learners in meaningful alcohol prevention education, this course centers authentic student-driven narratives to explore key topics such as supporting peers in recovery, understanding the short and long term effects of alcohol and substance use, and the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of abstaining and/or reducing the use of these substances while in college. By blending narrative-driven instruction with interactive engagement, this course equips students with the tools to make positive choices and create a culture of awareness, intervention, and support.

Hazing is a dangerous ritual taking place at institutions and organizations across the country. While certain activities that groups and clubs use to initiate members may seem innocuous, oftentimes these behaviors can escalate, creating inappropriate and sometimes violent and deadly criminal acts. This course gives students a better understanding about hazing so that they can identify when it’s happening and possibly prevent incidents in the future.

In keeping with the UCSC Principles of Community, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Students online educational program is designed to introduce students to concepts that will assist them in further understanding how inclusive practices foster a healthy and welcoming campus climate for our diverse student body.

The We Are Slugs programs are accessed and completed through the summer Orientation Course. The online orientation course is accessed via Canvas. Learn how to use and navigate Canvas.

• Google Chrome is the best browser to use for the We Are Slugs! online programs.
• You must disable pop-up blockers in your internet browser. Get more information about disabling pop-up blockers in Chrome or you can search online for instructions for disabling the pop-up blocker for your specific internet browser (e.g., Safari, Firefox).
• Clear your cache as it can help if the programs are not loading properly. Get instructions on how to clear your cache in Chrome or you can search online for instructions for clearing your cache for your specific internet browser (e.g., Safari, Firefox).
• Make sure your browser is configured to accept cookies. Get information on cookies for Chrome or search online for instructions for your specific browser (e.g., Safari, Firefox).
• JavaScript must not be disabled.
• Security level settings: default settings supported; IE Maximum Security levels not supported.
• If you are still having technical difficulties, please review these helpful resources. 

If you are unable to complete any of the programs due to a disability-related access concern, please email weareslugs@ucsc.edu. We will work to either resolve the barrier or provide an alternative training.