Winter Welcome 2025
{2025 updates pending}
View the interactive campus map and the campus walking map to help you get around campus. Remember to complete all Orientation To-Do items.
Your College Event Calendar will have more programming we expect you to participate in. If you need help, the Orientation Office staff is available during Zoom drop-in hours or by email at orientation@ucsc.edu.
Go to: Wed, Jan 3 Fri, Jan 5 Sun, Jan 7 Mon, Jan 8 Tues, Jan 9 Wed, Jan 10 Thurs, Jan 11 Fri, Jan 12 Sat, Jan13 Tues, Jan 16 Wed, Jan 17 Offices to Visit
Wednesday, January 3
Slugs CARE and Title IX Presentation (REQUIRED)
12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. (PT)
Via Zoom
This mandatory, interactive, three-part presentation promotes community standards and highlights resources available to support students’ well being and success. All incoming undergraduates must attend the Slugs CARE and Title IX webinar session and will receive an email to their UCSC email address with the subject: Slugs CARE and Title IX Presentation Confirmation. This email contains webinar information and contains a unique link to access the webinar. We encourage students to add the event to their Google Calendar so they will have easy access to it. The session is scheduled in Pacific Time.
Note that you must use your UCSC email address to register. Attendance is mandatory and will be recorded using your student email.
An alternate training is available, for both the online and in-person trainings, for those who may have difficulty with the content due to a current or past experience. For more information, confidential support, or to request an alternate training, please contact CARE (Campus Advocacy, Resources, and Education) at care@ucsc.edu or (831) 502-2273.
Friday, January 5
Appointments for UC Required Immunizations
**Call 831-459-2500 or schedule online through Health e-Messenger**
All incoming UC students are REQUIRED to receive certain vaccinations and tuberculosis (TB) screening. Students may receive required immunizations at the Student Health Center by scheduling an appointment through Health e-Messenger or calling (831) 459-2500. These are offered at no cost for students with UC SHIP.
ID Card Services - Pick up your student ID Card
Congratulations on becoming a Banana Slug! Your first student ID card is FREE! If you have submitted a photo through CloudCard, and your photo was approved, your card will be ready for you. If you did not submit a photo by December 1, you will pick up your card after January 5 once you submit your photo and after your photo gets approved. If you have yet to submit your photo, please go to the Photo Upload Instructions page then follow the photo submission guidelines.
- If you are living on campus and your photo was approved, your ID card will be waiting for you when you check-in on your move-in day.
- If you are living off campus and your photo was approved, your ID card will be at the ID Card Services Office located on the second floor of the Bay Tree Campus Store. Check the ID Card Services website for the hours they are open.
- If you are picking up your ID Card after January 12, your ID card will be at the ID Card Services Office located on the second floor of the Bay Tree Campus Store. Check the ID Card Services website for the hours they are open.
Please Note: You will need a government issued ID along with your UCSC Student ID number at the time of pick up.
Sunday, January 7
Baskin Engineering Frosh Advising Session (REQUIRED)
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (PT)
Jack Baskin Auditorium 101
This session is an important introduction to Baskin Engineering. Students will meet advisors, learn about policies, resources and how to be successful. There will be time for Q & A.
College Advising Session for Transfers (REQUIRED)
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (PT)
Classroom Unit 1
College Academic Advising— mandatory for all new transfer students: The College Academic Advising Orientation will provide an overview of important academic information all transfer students should be aware of, including degree requirements, academic planning, academic policies, enrichment opportunities, and tips for a successful transition to UC Santa Cruz.
College Advising Session for Frosh (REQUIRED)
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. (PT)
Classroom Unit 1
The College Academic Advising Orientation will provide an overview of important academic information all new frosh should be aware of, including degree requirements, academic planning, academic policies, enrichment opportunities, and tips for a successful transition to UC Santa Cruz.
Residential Student Welcome (for students living on campus)
2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (PT)
Your college will provide you with meeting time and location details for this in-person session.
Monday, January 8 - First day of classes
Orientation Office Zoom Drop-in Hours
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Zoom link: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/99175288327?pwd=N2lKVit1MUxJVnIwN2dLa1Y5TkVMZz09
Orientation staff is available to help you navigate the Winter Welcome schedule and to answer any questions you may have.
Intro to Undergraduate Research at UCSC
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (PT)
Via Zoom: https://ucsc.zoom.us/my/dons.
This workshop introduces incoming and continuing students to undergraduate research at UC Santa Cruz; what it is, why it should be part of your experience, and how to get started.
International Student Orientation
5:45 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (PT)
Location details will be sent by email
International Students in F-1 or J-1 status: Register for the in-person International Student Orientation hosted by Global Engagement. Attendance is mandatory.
Tuesday, January 9
New International Student Lunch & Campus Tour
12:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Meet in front of Cowell/Stevenson Dining Hall
Come have lunch with our Global Leaders at the Cowell/Stevenson Dining Hall. Meal plan/payment required. Afterwards, join us for a campus tour led by our Global Leaders. We’ll be stopping by some of the major areas of campus to help get you acquainted with the campus.
Transportation Options On and Off Campus
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. (PT)
Zoom link: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/98171891080?pwd=TTFsaGFMWDh6QXZkaEFyM1d4Yk1nUT09
Transportation & Parking Services (TAPS) is your ticket to how you'll travel around campus, around town, and back home. We'll go over all your great sustainable options and take the mystery out of Zipcar, Ebike Share, Safe Rides, city and campus buses, bicycle support programs, Cruz511, rideshare, holiday travel, campus parking, and more!
Orientation Office Zoom Drop-in Hours
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Zoom link: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/99175288327?pwd=N2lKVit1MUxJVnIwN2dLa1Y5TkVMZz09
Orientation staff is available to help you navigate the Winter Welcome schedule and to answer any questions you may have.
Winter Welcome and Resource Fair for All New Winter Students
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Multipurpose Room at College Nine/John R Lewis
General reception hosted by the provosts and college student life with resources available for new students.
Wednesday, January 10
Orientation Office Zoom Drop-in Hours
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Zoom link: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/99175288327?pwd=N2lKVit1MUxJVnIwN2dLa1Y5TkVMZz09
Orientation staff is available to help you navigate the Winter Welcome schedule and to answer any questions you may have.
EOP Winter Welcome
2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Zoom link: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/91287254947?pwd=SzJtQVpxL2RLeTZYbVhXZGxmTEoyQT09
EOP Winter Welcome will serve as an opportunity for students to connect with EOP Staff and Student Staff to learn more about the resources provided at EOP (Educational Opportunity Programs). Students will learn about the programs under the umbrella of EOP and the services provided by our office. We will review the process of setting up an appointment with an EOP Academic Counselor and Drop-in with our EOP Ambassadors.
Thursday, January 11
Orientation Office Zoom Drop-in Hours
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Zoom link: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/99175288327?pwd=N2lKVit1MUxJVnIwN2dLa1Y5TkVMZz09
Orientation staff is available to help you navigate the Winter Welcome schedule and to answer any questions you may have.
Intro to Undergraduate Research at UCSC
2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. (PT)
Charles E. Merrill Lounge
This workshop introduces incoming and continuing students to undergraduate research at UC Santa Cruz; what it is, why it should be part of your experience, and how to get started.
Friday, January 12
Orientation Office Zoom Drop-in Hours
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Zoom link: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/99175288327?pwd=N2lKVit1MUxJVnIwN2dLa1Y5TkVMZz09
Orientation staff is available to help you navigate the Winter Welcome schedule and to answer any questions you may have.
Are we on Campus or in a Forest? An Introduction to the Campus Natural Reserve Lands
11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. (PT)
In person: Norris Center Classroom (Natural Sciences 2 Room 233)
Via Zoom: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/98201234318?pwd=a1F4bGs3YjdXWW1hTi9xaklyUDBNQT09
The UCSC Campus is unique within the University of California in that almost 800 acres of the campus have been set aside as a Natural Reserve. These lands are home to 1000’s of plants and animals including bobcat, deer, and the California giant salamander. This event will discuss the animals and plants found on the Campus Natural Reserve and highlight ways you can get involved in research and educational activities at our Natural Reserves and the Ken Norris Center for Natural History. You will also learn about the appropriate use of the reserve and see specimens of some of the animals and plants that occur on campus. For more information, contact the Campus Reserve Manager at asjones@ucsc.edu.
Transfer Winter Welcome by STARS
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (PT)
In-person: STARS Lounge, Bay Tree Building Second Floor
The STARS Winter Welcome is an opportunity to learn more about people and the resources available to support your transition to UC Santa Cruz. You will make connections with staff and peers through fun activities and a casual networking dinner. You must RSVP to attend, and will receive an invitation directly from Services for Transfer and Re-entry Students (STARS).
Saturday, January 13
Save the Date: Global Leader Social (for international students)
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Namaste Lounge
Come meet other new and returning international students at this Global Leader-led game day social. You'll play boardgames, participate in icebreaker activities and community builders and have the chance to build your new community on campus.
Tuesday, January 16
Credit Card Crash Course!
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (PT)
Register for this workshop
Come to this workshop to learn about how to choose and use a credit card to build credit without going into massive debt. Topics will include:
- How credit cards work
- Credit card features, benefits, and drawbacks
- How to shop for a credit card
- Why people get into credit card debt - and how to avoid it
Wednesday, January 17
Intro to Undergraduate Research at UCSC
9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (PT)
Via Zoom: https://ucsc.zoom.us/my/dons.
This workshop introduces incoming and continuing students to undergraduate research at UC Santa Cruz; what it is, why it should be part of your experience, and how to get started.
Transportation Options On and Off Campus
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. (PT)
Zoom link: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/91889071151?pwd=ZmQ4M055NDRrNVZpNXJ4NFljWndyZz09
Transportation & Parking Services (TAPS) is your ticket to how you'll travel around campus, around town, and back home. We'll go over all your great sustainable options and take the mystery out of Zipcar, Ebike Share, Safe Rides, city and campus buses, bicycle support programs, Cruz511, rideshare, holiday travel, campus parking, and more!
EOP Open House
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Academic Resource Center Patio/Building
The EOP Office will be tabling outside of the Academic Resource Center and hosting tours of the building. Students will have the opportunity to interact with the EOP Staff and Student Staff. Students will also learn more about programs like our Textbook Access Program, our EOP Food Pantry, and Undocumented Student Services. We are hoping to provide lunch for students who are in attendance.
Wallet Wellness Workshop
6:00 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. (PT)
Register for this workshop
Want to learn how to live on a budget, manage your money, pay bills, and minimize student loan debt? Come to this workshop! We'll show you some budgeting best practices and tools that can help reduce your financial stress so you can feel better about your money situation. Hosted by SlugCents Financial Wellness.
| IMPORTANT OFFICES TO VISIT |
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Appointments for UC Required Immunizations
**Call (831) 459-2500 or schedule online through Health e-Messenger**
All incoming UC students are REQUIRED to receive certain vaccinations and tuberculosis (TB) screening. Students may receive required immunizations at the Student Health Center by scheduling an appointment through Health e-Messenger or calling (831) 459-2500. These are offered at no cost for students with UC SHIP.
1:1 Confidential Financial Coaching Appointments
Schedule an appointment
Whether you have questions about your UCSC bill, need some guidance with budgeting or taxes, or you are experiencing financial stress or hardships, the SlugCents team is here to help. Make a confidential, no-judgment appointment with a SlugCents Peer Financial Coach to get information and resources that can help you feel better about your money situation, or email us with questions at slugcents@ucsc.edu.
10:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m.. and 1:00 p.m.– 4:00 p.m. (PT)
150 Hahn Student Services
Available in-person at the front counter and by phone at 831-459-4008, or by email at admissions@ucsc.edu. Receive information regarding conditions of admission, transfer credit, sending official transcripts and test scores, and appeals
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Bay Tree Campus Store
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (PT)
Quarry Plaza
The Bay Tree Campus Store is your destination for a wide variety of Banana Slug apparel. The Campus Store also features Apple computers (at discounted education prices), Apple accessories, school supplies, art supplies, and gifts. From January 5th through the 19th, The Bay Tree Campus Store will be welcoming students, staff, and faculty back to campus with discounted bundles on Apple M3 Pros with Applecare+ as well as deep discounts on all M1 and M2 Macbook Pros and Airs.
Hours for January 5 and after
ID Card Services - Pick up your student ID Card
Congratulations on becoming a Banana Slug! Your first student ID card is FREE! If you have submitted a photo through CloudCard, and your photo was approved, your card will be ready for you. If you did not submit a photo by December 1, you will pick up your card after January 5 once you submit your photo and after your photo gets approved. If you have yet to submit your photo, please go to the Photo Upload Instructions page then follow the photo submission guidelines.
- If you are living on campus and your photo was approved, your ID card will be waiting for you when you check-in on your move-in day.
- If you are living off campus and your photo was approved, your ID card will be at the ID Card Services Office located on the second floor of the Bay Tree Campus Store. Check the ID Card Services website for the hours they are open.
- If you are picking up your ID Card after January 12, your ID card will be at the ID Card Services Office located on the second floor of the Bay Tree Campus Store. Check the ID Card Services website for the hours they are open.
Please Note: You will need a government issued ID along with your UCSC Student ID number at the time of pick up.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Office
See the Contact Information page for availability information
205 Hahn Student Services
Advisers are available on a drop-in basis to assist students and their families with any questions regarding their financial aid awards, loan requirements, and more.
Monday - Friday starting on January 2, 2024
Student Housing Services
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (PT)
104 Hahn Student Services
(831) 459-2394
The Campus Housing Office staff are available via email or phone or to assist you with any questions about housing and dining charges, payment plan options, meal plans, and more. Contact information is available at https://housing.ucsc.edu/contact/cho/index.html.
Orientation Office Zoom Drop-in Hours
See the Orientation Calendar for daily Zoom drop-in hours
Orientation staff is available to help you navigate the campus and to answer any questions you may have.
Hours for January 2-5 and 8-12
Office of the Registrar
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. (PT)
190 Hahn Student Services
Call at (831) 459-4412
(Friday phone hours: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
Open for general questions about registration, course enrollment, and enrollment verification.
Hours for January 3-5 and 8-11
Residency and Veterans Services at the Registrar’s Office
In-person advising hours: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. (PT)
Phone hours: Monday - Friday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (PT)
190 Hahn Student Services
(831) 459-3459 or (831) 459-2910 or (831) 459-2731
Zoom Advising Calendar for Residency and Veterans Services
Open for general questions about registration, veterans benefits, and residency for UC tuition.
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Hours for January 8-12 and 16-19
Residential Computing (ResNet)
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (PT)
Rachel Carson College Room 258
ResNet assists with residential networks (including ResWiFi and ResWiFi-devices) as well as with minor computer repair. Staff will be available via phone, email, and in-person support (no appointment needed). Call ResNet at (831) 459-4638, email resnet@ucsc.edu, or visit our website resnet.ucsc.edu for more information.
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SlugCents Financial Wellness Program
In-person and virtual meetings available M-F
203 Hahn Student Services (next to Financial Aid)
Email: slugcents@ucsc.edu
Phone: (831) 502-0781
The SlugCents Financial Wellness Program helps UCSC students build the knowledge and skills they need to feel more confident about their financial decisions. Visit https://linktr.ee/slugcents to register for our financial workshops, learn about financial topics, or make a 1:1 appointment to work on financial issues and goals with a peer financial coach.
Student Business Services (SBS): Financial Service Center
In-person hours: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (PT)
102 Hahn Student Services
Email: sbs@ucsc.edu
Phone: (831) 459-2107
Phone hours: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (PT)
SBS will be available to answer questions about billing, making payments, signing up for direct deposit refunds, and information on Tuition Payment Plans for current registration fees.
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UCSC.iGrad.com: Build Your Financial Knowledge (no advertising or data sharing)
Visit the UCSC.iGrad.com website
UCSC.iGrad.com is the official financial knowledge website for UCSC students, alumni, staff, faculty, and their family members. Sign up for a free account (use your UCSC.edu email address for added security) and you’ll have access to information on nearly every personal financial topic you can think of! From budgeting and financial aid to health insurance and living trusts, UCSC.iGrad.com has it all. There’s even a scholarship search tool with hundreds of scholarship opportunities that have been thoroughly researched for you. And because UCSC’s SlugCents Financial Wellness Program pays for the site, there is no advertising or data sharing to worry about (we promise).
