Campus News
Slug Start with The Peel: Your guide to beginning fall quarter!
Welcome to fall quarter! Explore Slug Start events, campus resources and opportunities to connect, get involved and make UC Santa Cruz home.
Dear Slugs,
Welcome to fall quarter and a new academic year! Whether you’re new to UC Santa Cruz or returning for another year, the start of fall brings plenty of ways to connect, get involved and find your place on campus. Slug Start is a big part of that, with events and activities happening across UC Santa Cruz to welcome you into the year.
The Peel comes to you from the Division of Student Affairs and Success, generally twice each quarter, with news, resources, events and opportunities to help you make the most of your UC Santa Cruz experience. Think of it as one place to catch up on what’s happening, find something new to explore and stay connected to the resources here to help you thrive.
So, let’s get this year started. Here’s what’s happening across campus.
Go Slugs!
– Division of Student Affairs and Success
Slug Start Signature Events
New Admit Class Photo
Monday, Sept. 21 | 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
A longtime UCSC tradition where incoming students receive their official class t-shirt and gather on the East Upper Field overlooking Monterey Bay for the annual class photograph.
Late Night at the Athletics and Recreation Center
Monday, Sept. 21 | 7 – 10 p.m.
Discover everything UCSC Athletics and Recreation has to offer at Late Night! Head to the East Field House to check in and explore our most popular student programs. Participate in mini sessions of Yoga, Zumba, Pilates, and Indoor Cycling, or dive into the pool for a swim. There is truly something for everyone, so come learn how to make the absolute most of your Slug Recreation membership.
Cornucopia
Tuesday, Sept. 22 | 3 – 6 p.m.
Cornucopia is UCSC’s signature fall festival and resource fair, bringing together hundreds of campus departments, student organizations, and resources for an afternoon of music, games, giveaways, and community connection on the East Upper Field. As the largest gathering of new Banana Slugs each year, it’s the ultimate chance to explore student life, discover ways to get involved, and start building your UCSC community.
Student Employment & Work-Study Fair
Wednesday, Sept. 23 | 1 – 3:30 p.m.
Looking for an on-campus and/or work-study role? Join us on the East Upper Field to network with on-campus departments actively searching for new student employees, including a key focus on employers offering work-study positions. Students from all class levels and disciplines are encouraged to attend. Register in Handshake.
Boardwalk Frolic
Friday, Sept. 25 | 6 – 10 p.m.
Kick off your UCSC experience with a night of fun at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk! The Boardwalk Frolic is a private event just for new UCSC students—featuring free rides, games, and the chance to connect with fellow Banana Slugs right on the beach. Enjoy the lights, the ocean breeze, and one of Santa Cruz’s most iconic spots as you make new memories and new friends.
Choose Your Own Slugventure
Saturday, Sept. 26 | 7 – 10 p.m.
Join us for Choose Your Own Slugventure and customize your night across two distinct campus zones! Grab popcorn and warm drinks to relax under the stars at Oakes College upper lawn for a cozy Movie Night, or head to the College Nine/John R. Lewis Multipurpose Room (MPR) for a Silent Disco! Flow between the two zones all night long and craft your own ultimate adventure!
Looking for something else fun to do?
Explore more upcoming events and opportunities on the UCSC Events Calendar.
Stay connected and informed
Follow DSAS on instagram
Want to know what’s happening across campus? Follow the Division of Student Affairs and Success on Instagram for upcoming events, timely updates, helpful resources and more ways to get connected throughout the year.
UCSC Dining: Know what’s open and when
Dining halls, cafes and markets are more than places to grab a meal or a quick snack. They’re also great places to meet up with friends, connect with others and spend time in community. Dining hours vary by location and throughout the quarter, so check the UCSC Dining website for current hours and locations to know what’s open and when.
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.