Dear Slugs,
Spring quarter is here—bringing longer days, warmer weather, and a campus buzzing with energy as we move toward graduation season and summer, whether that means Summer Session or a well-deserved break from your academics.
With everything happening in the world, across the country, and in our local communities, it can feel overwhelming as you navigate your day-to-day lives as students. I encourage you to tap into the rhythm of spring on campus as you move through it. It is in the spaces we gather and in the people with whom we build community where we can find joy and the spirit to persist.
In this edition of Dear Slugs, you’ll find info about upcoming events, helpful resources, and a message from the University’s Chief Well-being Officer—a reminder that your health and well-being matter, and that we’re here to support you.
Lean into spring. Lean on each other. And good luck as you close out the academic year—you’ve got this.
In community,
Garrett Naiman
Associate Vice Chancellor & Dean of Students
Campus Connections: Celebrating the Arts
Experience the Magic of the Ramayana at the 23rd Annual Journey Through India
Join us for the 23rd Annual Journey Through India: The Tale of the Ramayana on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at the Mainstage Theater. Hosted by the Indian Student Association (ISA), this vibrant cultural production brings together storytelling, music, and dance to celebrate one of India’s most beloved epics. The evening will feature performances by ISA members along with special appearances from Raas, Apna Virsa, and Taza Taal. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of tradition, talent, and community.
Learn more about Journey through India
Bayanihan Presents PCC XXXIV: Honoring Heritage Through Dance, Music, and Spoken Word
Join Bayanihan for the 34th Annual Pilipino Cultural Celebration: Hanggang Sa Muli on April 25 and 26, 2025, from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at the Mainstage Theater. This powerful production showcases Filipino/Pilipinx culture and storytelling through a dynamic blend of theater, music, dance, and spoken word. The show features performances by Alay, Haluan, Isang Himig, Pagkakaisa Dance Troupe, and People Power, each bringing a unique artistic lens to the shared narrative. Don’t miss this moving celebration of identity, community, and cultural pride.
Learn more about Pilipino Cultural Celebration
Join the Celebration at the 43rd Annual Multicultural Festival: Free of Fear, We’re Still Here!
Join the Multicultural Festival Planning Committee for the 43rd Annual Multicultural Festival: Free of Fear, We’re Still Here! on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from noon to 6 p.m. at the Oakes Lower Lawn. Sponsored by 15 student organizations, this vibrant celebration honors the rich diversity of the UC Santa Cruz student community through live performances, cultural cuisine, and uplifting music. MCF is more than an event—it’s a powerful gathering rooted in joy, resilience, and togetherness. All are welcome to come celebrate, connect, and build community.
Celebrate Culture and Movement at Los Mejicas’ 53rd Annual Spring Show: Bailando al latido de Nuestras Raíces
Join Los Mejicas for their 53rd Anniversary Spring Show, Bailando al latido de Nuestras Raíces (Dancing to the Beat of Our Roots), on May 30–31, 2025, from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m. at the Mainstage Theater. This beloved tradition showcases the richness of Mexican heritage through vibrant regional dances performed by members of Los Mejicas, accompanied by live music from Mariachi Eterno. Don’t miss this powerful celebration of culture, rhythm, and community.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Shatter the Stigma: Join the Rally, March, and Healing in Honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month
The UCSC Women’s Center invites all students, staff, and faculty to take part in Shatter the Stigma: Rally, March, and Healing—a powerful series of events taking place on April 25, 2025, in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM).
Formerly known as Take Back the Night, this annual gathering creates space to support survivors, reclaim healing, engage in community, and raise awareness about sexual violence and prevention.
Stay tuned for details on how to participate by following the Women’s Center on Instagram at @ucsc.women and via LinkTree: @womenucsc.
Health hub: Resources to support your well-being
Student Health Services Welcomes New Medical Leadership, Reaffirms Commitment to Student Healthcare
Check out a message from John Bollard, Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Health and Wellness and Chief Well-being Officer, about the ongoing commitment to accessible, high-quality care at UCSC. The message also introduces two new members of the Student Health leadership team—Dr. Karen Wang, Medical Director, and Dr. Allyson Garcia, Associate Medical Director.
Whether you need support now or just want to know what’s available, Student Health Services is here for you. Prioritizing your well-being is one of the most important things you can do as a student—this is a great place to start.
Read the full message on the UCSC News Center, also featured in the March 18 edition of Tuesday Newsday.
411: Dates, Deadlines and Essential Info
Financial Aid: What You Need to Know
Despite recent headlines about proposed changes to the U.S. Department of Education, financial aid at UC remains available and reliable. At this time, there are no expected impacts to federal aid programs like the FAFSA, Pell Grants, Federal Work Study, or federal student loans.
In fact, UC students received over $3 billion in state and university aid last year—most of which is not tied to federal funding.
What you should do:
- Apply for financial aid by the April 2 priority deadline
- If your FAFSA contributor doesn’t have a Social Security Number, check this guidance for support.
UC continues to advocate for students and will share updates as they become available. Stay informed by visiting the UC Federal Updates website or the UCSC Financial Aid website.
Resource Directory
Didn't find what you were looking for?
Looking for support, community, or ways to get involved? The Division of Student Affairs and Success Resource Directory is your go-to place to explore programs, services, organizations, and campus resources. Whether you’re seeking academic help, well-being support, or connection, there’s something here for you.
Visit the resource directory
You Belong Here
The programs and services described here are open to all, consistent with state and federal law, as well as the University of California’s nondiscrimination policies. Every initiative—whether a student service, faculty program, or community event—is designed to be accessible, inclusive, and respectful of all identities.
To learn more, please visit UC Nondiscrimination Statements or Nondiscriminatio
