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Volunteers needed for fall move-in — sign up today!

Help welcome Banana Slugs during fall move-in by volunteering to greet students, assist families, and support campus.

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Hello,

Fall move-in is just around the corner, and we would greatly appreciate your help in welcoming our newest Banana Slugs to campus! Each fall, our campus comes alive with the energy and excitement of thousands of new and returning students arriving to begin (or continue) their UC Santa Cruz journey. Move-in is one of the most meaningful moments in that experience, not just for students, but also for their families. It’s often their first impression of UCSC, and your presence helps shape a warm, welcoming, and supportive start. 

Volunteering for move-in is more than a task, it’s an opportunity to embody the spirit of our Banana Slug community. Whether you’re greeting students, helping families find their way, or handing out welcome shirts, you’re playing a vital role in helping our students feel seen, valued, and at home. Thank you for showing up and making a difference during this pivotal moment.

Move-in for students will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on September 18, 19, 20, and 21. During that time, approximately 5,600 students will be arriving on campus. Below is a summary of volunteer tasks, responsibilities, and other important details.

Volunteer Tasks

  • Move-in Greeters – Welcome students and help them find their way to check-in. 
  • Student Shirt Distributors – Distribute shirts to all new residents during check-in.
  • Family Engagement Table – Welcome and connect with families and friends, share Family Weekend dates, provide additional move-in information, and answer any questions they may have.
  • Move-in Shuttle Drivers – Shuttle students to and from the colleges/communities as needed. Shuttle drivers must be UCSC employees and have a valid California Driver’s License.


To volunteer for one or more shifts, please use the sign-up form to select your preferred time slot(s) by 5 p.m. on Monday, September 15. The Move-In Team will be hosting an optional move-in volunteer training via Zoom at noon on Wednesday, September 17. If you’re looking for a group activity for your department or team, we encourage you to sign up together. This is also a great opportunity to connect or reconnect with staff, faculty, Alumni, and Silver Slugs Retirees. 

We ask all volunteers to wear move-in or commencement volunteer shirts. If you don’t own one, please feel free to wear a UCSC-branded shirt along with your name tag. 

I hope you join me in giving a warm welcome to our newest Banana Slugs! If you have any questions, please email us. 

In community,

Laura Arroyo, Ed.D.
Associate Vice Chancellor for Colleges, Housing and Educational Services

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Last modified: Sep 04, 2025