You Should Know

The Colleges at UC Santa Cruz are vibrant, creative learning communities that support student development and academic success. All undergraduate students, whether or not they live in university housing, are affiliated with a college. In addition to housing students in small-scale residential communities, each college provides curriculum and academic support, organizes student activities, sponsors events that enhance the intellectual and social life of the campus, and has an academic advising team to support the student's academic progress. 

The Colleges are here to support students through their university journey. We understand that transitioning to being a university student can be difficult for the student, and also for the parent, family member, or the entire family. Our goal is to support students as they take ownership of their education. 

"Learning, true learning, is about expanding comprehension and deepening wisdom. It's about joy, exhilaration. It's about enriched and fulfilling and productive lives. It's about discovering how little you know and trying to do something about it, not only for the excitement of discovery...but to be a responsible citizen of the planet." --David McCullough 

Reminders

• The university can only communicate with the student- Family Education and Privacy Act (FERPA)
  • All communication will be sent directly to the student (bills, grades, housing, etc.)
  • Most communication is sent to their UCSC email or via their student portal 
• Student should update their emergency contact information in their MyUCSC student portal
• Staff and faculty can only speak with students (special student permission is required for family members in some cases)