Adjusting to UCSC

Navigating the transition to college

Starting college is a big transition filled with new experiences—living away from home, balancing coursework, meeting new people, and adapting to a new environment. It’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty.

As you adjust, take a moment to reflect on your strengths and how you’ve navigated change in the past. You’re not alone—and there are many resources available to support you.

To make it easier, we’ve organized support options around the key dimensions of well-being. Looking for something specific? Use the DSAS Resource Directory to find what you need, when you need it.

Physical well-being

Caring for your body includes both movement and rest. UC Santa Cruz offers great ways to support both.

Check out everything the Recreation Center has to offer, from fitness classes to intramural sports and outdoor adventures.
Did you know you can also enroll in Physical Education classes? Each quarter, UCSC offers a variety of options, from strength training to ocean kayaking. Browse offerings through the UCSC class search under Physical Education.
Having trouble sleeping? SHOP has sleep tips and resources to help you get better rest and feel more refreshed.

Emotional well-being

Adjusting to UCSC can bring up new challenges and emotions—and that’s completely normal.

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers free mental health services to all UCSC students, regardless of UC SHIP. Call (831) 459-2628 to schedule an appointment.
Wellness Coaching through SHOP gives you the chance to meet one-on-one with a professional staff member to set goals, reflect, and make progress toward personal well-being.

Financial well-being

Money is a huge stressor in college! Reach out for help if you need support.

Slugcents

Slug Cents, UCSC’s financial wellness program, offers appointments with financial advisors or peer educators, plus a range of online resources. Visit them in Hahn Student Services, Room 203.

Slug support

Slug Support provides personalized assistance for students experiencing financial or basic needs insecurity.

Are you struggling to afford food? Basic Needs has listings for campus food pantries, CalFresh support, and local food resources.

Making new friends at college is sometimes harder than it looks in movies and television—and that’s completely normal.

If Cornucopia felt overwhelming or you didn’t find the right fit, don’t worry. SOMeCA has a full list of nearly 200 registered student organizations. There’s something for everyone!
Go to an event hosted by your residential college. Chances are, others are also looking to meet new people. Follow your college’s Instagram to stay updated on events and activities.
Want to connect with others who share your background or interests? The UC Santa Cruz Resource Centers offer events, job opportunities, and supportive community spaces that celebrate identity and belonging.

Intellectual well-being

It’s exciting to study subjects you’re interested in at college! It’s also ok if you arrive at UCSC not knowing what you want to study.

Think about subjects you loved when you were a kid and look through the course catalog to see if there’s a class that fulfills a GE requirement.
Add a minor, even if the subject isn’t related to your major. You can learn different skills from different classes and it can keep you engaged while balancing major classes.

Occupational well-being

Not everyone arrives at college knowing what career path they want—and that’s okay.

Connect with Career Success for personalized support with your future goals. They offer one-on-one career coaching, help with resumes and cover letters, job and internship listings, networking tips, and guidance for grad school planning. Whether you’re just starting to explore careers or preparing to apply, they’re here to help.
If you enjoy a course, talk to your professor about how they got started. An informational interview can offer insight into potential careers.
If you meet a staff member whose work interests you—whether in student affairs, research, or another area—ask if they’d be open to an informational interview. Learning about their career path can help you discover new possibilities and build valuable connections.

Environmental well-being

Where you live, work, and exist can affect your mental health.

Explore the outdoors through UCSC Natural Reserves programs and take advantage of the incredible natural beauty surrounding campus.
Decorate your dorm with things that remind you of home and bring you joy.

Spiritual well-being

Spiritual wellness can come from religion, reflection, purpose, or connection.

You can also explore ways to give back by volunteering—on campus or in the Santa Cruz community. Learn more through the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County.
SOMeCA has a list of student organizations focused on spiritual and religious life where you can find community and support.