My name is Ian. I’m a 2nd year at UC Santa Cruz, and I’m a literature major. I chose to come to this school because of the beautiful campus, lots of opportunities, and the unique environment of Santa Cruz.

Hometown

Oakland, California

Clubs, organizations & involvement

N​/​A

Describe your college experience

My college experience in my freshman year was a little rough in trying to transition. I would isolate myself because I was scared of the new environment and feared that people wouldn’t like me. But as time gone on, I began to open myself up to my surroundings. The biggest thing I realized was from how friendly and supportive the people of Santa Cruz are. I ended my freshman year on a good note, feeling like I had grown as a person and had gained more confidence. Now into my sophomore year, I’m hoping to take the next step by being more productive and more open.

Tip for future students

The biggest advice I could give to future students is to step outside your comfort zone and socialize. Join clubs and talk to new people in your class. Because if you isolate yourself, you’re not going to have a fun time.

Favorite class

In terms of the subjects, it was a class I took on reading movies and another one World War II in Europe that were my favorites as those are topics I’m interested in. But in terms of the environment, a class I took on California History was my favorite, as it was the first class I developed a friend group in. The class itself was also very interesting.

Career goals

I’m hoping to become a writer​/​author.

Ideal way to spend a free night

If I’m with friends, I’m honestly down for anything, you can almost never go wrong with doing anything with the right group of people. But if I’m by myself, I like to explore the campus and the surrounding woods, going places I don’t regularly go to and look for hidden landmarks.

High school or secondary school

Skyline High School, Oakland, California

Previous college

N​/​A