What to Expect from Your First Year
Starting your first year at UC Santa Cruz is an exciting time filled with opportunities, new experiences, and big changes. Whether you’re living on campus or commuting, coming from across town or across the world, your first year is about learning how to navigate college—academically, socially, and emotionally. This page will help you prepare for what’s ahead and remind you that you’re not expected to have it all figured out on day one.
Academic life: learning how to learn in college
College academics may feel different from what you’re used to—fewer class meetings, more independent work, and higher expectations for time management and critical thinking. But you won’t do it alone.
- You’re not expected to know everything. Learning how to learn in college is part of the journey.
- Use your support network. College and major advisors, professors, TAs, tutoring services, and peer mentors are here to help.
- Take the Orientation Course seriously. This 1-credit online course helps you understand UCSC’s academic structure, tools, and resources, while also guiding you through enrollment, campus values, and where to turn when you need help.
Emotional and social transitions
Moving into a new environment, forming new relationships, and adapting to more independence can feel exciting and overwhelming—sometimes all at once.
- It’s okay to feel homesick, uncertain, or out of place. These feelings are common and temporary.
- Make time to connect. Whether it’s with your roommate, classmates, clubs, or campus events, building community takes time—and intention.
- Reach out early and often. Counseling services, resource centers, advisors, and Orientation Leaders are ready to support you.
Life skills and everyday adjustments
There’s more to college life than academics. You’ll be managing your time, money, meals, relationships, and daily routines—many for the first time.
- Practice balance. Sleep, movement, meals, downtime, and fun are all essential to your success.
- Learn to advocate for yourself. Whether you’re emailing a professor, asking for help, or seeking a resource, speaking up is a strength.
- Get to know your environment. Walk your class routes ahead of time, explore dining spots, and learn how to use transportation and Slug Success tools.
You’ll be supported every step of the way
Your first year includes many layers of support:
- Orientation Leaders – Your near-peer guides through the summer and fall transition
- Advising Team – College and major advisors who help you plan your path
- Slug Success – Your hub for appointments, tutoring, reminders, and academic tools
- Campus Life Staff – RAs, Housing Coordinators, and Student Life professionals
- Campus Services – Health, counseling, Slug Support, identity-based resource centers, and more
You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be curious, open to learning, and willing to ask for help when you need it. Your first year is a time of growth—not just as a student, but as a person. We are here to cheer you on as you learn the ropes, find your people, and make this place your own.