I'm Lauren Garrett, a sophomore at UCSC, and am very focused on getting my bachelor of science degree while still fully appreciating all that my campus holds. I had a great first year at college and met so many amazing people and hope to get other incoming students just as excited for the future they could have at UCSC like my tour guide did for me a year ago. I love staying active, playing card games, and exploring hidden parts of campus with my friends. I can't wait for my next years at UCSC and hope I can continue enjoying it with others that love the campus as much as I do.

Hometown

Fresno, California

Major(s)

Global and Community Health

Minor(s)

NA

Clubs, organizations & involvement

NA

Describe your college experience

My transition into college definitely carried it's stress with taking such advanced stem classes and adapting to living in close quarters with new people, but also gave me connections I know I will always keep with me and was the best year of my life. College helps you learn how to do the hard things in life and problem solve on your own, I gained so many valuable life skills just in the first month alone. But each day brought me so much joy and fulfillment I wouldn't have it any other way.

Tip for future students

The best tip I could give any incoming students is keeping a good balance school and a social life. It is just as important to put your classes first as it is to remember to take breaks, eat well, and get. good nights rest. With a balance of the two it becomes easier to be successful and avoid burnout. I recommend taking the time to build connections during welcome week and keeping those throughout the year without putting too much pressure on yourself of having to find your best friend that first day. It takes time but it's important to keep an open mind to everyone you meet. Enjoy the fresh start college brings!

Favorite class

My favorite class I have taken so far in my college career was Female Physiology during my first Fall quarter. A good professor and a subject you care about makes all the difference in a students success and you could tell the professor cared about all of her students and the class was a passion of hers. I found each unit so interesting and applicable to my own life. Even now I find myself reflecting back the most to what I learned in that class. My professor set up a book club outside of class for people that were as passionate as her about the class to read and discuss a book about the evolution of the female body which helped me become more involved during class.

Career goals

After I graduate from UCSC I hope to study to get a doctorate in physical therapy. With this my goal is to focus on athletes and travel with a team. I think I would feel very fulfilled from my years of studying and hard work to get to a career I love.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal way to spend a free night is staying in with friends and hosting a game night with a movie. My favorite memories of my freshman year were nights like this in the dorm lounge. With lots of snacks and lots of company I think it's a perfect way to decompress after a stressful day of classes.

High school or secondary school

Bullard High School, Fresno, California

Previous college

Fresno City College. I was duel enrolled during high school, getting ahead with credits.