Hi! I'm a transfer student at UCSB, currently working as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in ecology​/​environmental studies. I can speak firsthand to what the transfer experience is like here, from adjusting to campus to finding your community. As well as what it's actually like to get involved in research as an undergrad. Outside of academics, I play intramural sports and I'm part of the craft club, so I can also give you the full picture of campus life, and I have lived in both student housing and Isla Vista. Happy to answer anything about academics, transferring in, research opportunities, or just what day-to-day life at UCSB is like!

Hometown

San Diego, CA

Major(s)

Environmental Studies B.S. with an Ecology concentration

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Craft Club, Intramural Sports, Undergraduate Research

Describe your college experience

I've had a great experience as a transfer student at UCSB. There have been some bumps in the road, but I'm proud of myself for taking the chance. The lifestyle here is hard to beat. From fun nights out with friends, to live music put on by fellow students just a walk down the street, to beach time sandwiched between classes. People are welcoming and relaxed, and academics and personal life balance is encouraged here. That said, if you're more academically inclined and after the grind, there's more than enough space for you to do that too. After all, you only get one college experience.

Tip for future students

Do not be afraid to ask for what you want. You'd be surprised what a quick, polite, and genuine email can get you accepted by your Professors. Even if you aren't interested in research, the connections and web you build with your peers, graduate students, and Professors today matter. Adopt a say "yes" mindset, and try everything out your first year.

Favorite class

My favorite class was ENVS 40 Honors with Professor Jen Martin. As an B.S. environmental studies major, I don't get much humanities coursework, so I took it on a whim, even though I wasn't an honors student and it's designed more for first and second-years. I loved the small-group discussions, which allowed me to build a closer connection with an amazing professor, and I realized that many more people were in the same spot as I was than I thought. Professor Martin ended up pushing me to pursue a senior thesis project, which I'm working on now.

Career goals

I will be pursuing my Masters or PhD in entomology or freshwater sciences, or I am hoping to continue the internship I have now with the county as a Water Quality Intern.

Ideal way to spend a free night

While I love a night curled up with tea and a good book, podcast, or my favorite TV show of the week, I also love my friends. I've been blessed with incredible friends who make any night fun. From group watch parties, to trivia nights at Woodstock's, to beach sunset walks, band shows in IV, and dancing all night at bars, only to finish it off with a necessary visit to one of the many hot dog stands in Downtown Santa Barbara.

High school or secondary school

Santa Fe Christian Schools, South Lake Tahoe Highschool

Previous college

Gonzaga Univeristy

Favorite spot on campus

The Noble and Web Hall Court Yard. A quiet little place just infront of the campus greenhouse where I do research, and the favorite spot of 2 beloved campus cats.