Campus News
Spring quarter student newsletter: Go Bananas! with The Peel
The Division of Student Affairs and Success welcomes students to spring quarter with the first installment of The Peel, a new newsletter for 2025-26.
Dear Slugs,
Welcome to spring quarter. There’s a renewed energy across campus this time of year, with more ways to get involved, connect, and make the most of what’s ahead. From events and celebrations to helpful resources and a few timely reminders, here’s what to know as the quarter gets underway.
Upcoming events
Movie night under the stars
Join the DSAS Office of Leadership and Involvement this Thursday, April 2 at 8 p.m. on Oakes Lower Lawn for an outdoor screening of Castle in the Sky, a Studio Ghibli classic.
Bring a blanket and settle in for the evening. Free ramen, candy, drinks, and activities will be available. Questions or accommodation requests? Email involved@ucsc.edu.
Off-campus housing resource fairs
Thinking about living off campus next year? These upcoming fairs are a great way to connect with local landlords, learn about the rental process, and get tips for submitting a strong application.
- Wednesday, April 15, noon – 3 p.m. on Social Sciences Lawn (College Nine)
- Wednesday, May 6, noon – 3 p.m. in Cowell Founders Glen
You can also explore additional tools and resources through Community Rentals, including the Renters Workshop and current rental listings.
Get ready to go bananas, Slugs!
Mark your calendar for something special! The first-ever Go Bananas! Carnival will take place Saturday, May 30 on East Field from 2 – 6 p.m. We’re celebrating the end of the year and 40 years of the Banana Slug as our mascot with an afternoon of fun, connection, and campus tradition.
The fun includes:
- Birthday cake, treats, and stickers celebrating 40 years of the banana slug
- Inflatables and a climbing wall
- Face painting, games, and music
- Photo ops with Sammy
Looking for something else fun to do?
Explore more upcoming events and opportunities on the UCSC Events Calendar.
Important reminders
Ride smart: essential bike and e-bike safety
With more Slugs biking this time of year, including increased use of e-bikes, a few small habits can make a big difference:
- Gear up: Helmets and lights are available through Slug Bike Life and TAPS
- Check your ride: Air, brakes, chain—every time
- Ride predictably: Use hand signals and follow traffic rules
- Ride responsibly: E-bikes move faster—slow down in high-traffic areas and stay aware of pedestrians
Protect your financial information: stay alert to phishing scams
Phishing emails are currently targeting UCSC students with messages about “dropped classes” or “grade changes.” These are scams intended to capture your login details.
- Verify: Always go directly to MyUCSC—avoid email login links
- Pause: Only approve Duo requests you initiated
- Report: Send suspicious emails to phishing@ucsc.edu
Complete the UC Undergraduate Experience Survey today!
The UC Undergraduate Experience Survey is a chance to share your thoughts about academic instruction, advising needs, basic needs, campus services and events, and extracurricular activities. Prize drawings are happening every week of instruction during the survey, and prizes are for many local downtown Santa Cruz restaurants and shops!
Have a great spring quarter!
Wishing you a strong start to the quarter. Spring brings new energy to campus, along with important milestones ahead, including commencement for many in our community. Whether you’re preparing to graduate or finishing your first year on campus, this is a time to stay focused, stay connected, and take advantage of the opportunities around you. Look out for one another and make the most of the weeks ahead.
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 Nondiscrimination Policy Statement for University of California Publications Regarding Student-Related Matters.
The Peel is a student newsletter curated by the Division of Student Affairs and Success (DSAS).