Hello! My name is Kendall Clemons and I am a current second year Environmental Studies and Legal Studies double major at UC Santa Cruz! I am affiliated with Rachel Carson College. I enjoy hiking, camping, gardening, and collecting vinyl in my free time! I am excited to share with you details about my positive experience at UCSC. I am open to answer questions about my application process, experience with classes, dorms, clubs, social life, and much more.

Hometown

Sonoma, CA

Major(s)

Environmental Studies, Legal Studies

Clubs, organizations & involvement

I have worked at Younger Lagoon Reserve as a native habitat restoration intern as well as UCSC Farm as a field​/​farm intern. I am involved in Agroecology club on campus and spend time volunteering at Rachel Carson College garden.

Describe your college experience

I have absolutely loved my experience at University of California, Santa Cruz. This university is perfect for someone who wants a collaborative academic environment as well as immense support. UCSC has a smaller population compared to other UC's, which makes building meaningful connections more accessible. In my first year of college I was able to complete two internships and earn a scholarship related to my major. The ten residential colleges on campus make the transition to college less frightening, as you have a major advisor as well as residential college advisor. These residential colleges also help you find like-minded individuals as they are sorted by academic interest. The community here is extremely welcoming, and I have never felt unsafe on campus. The wildlife and redwood trees create a calm atmosphere and there are many fun things to do in downtown Santa Cruz. For example, concerts at the Catalyst, Natural Bridges State Beach, the Boardwalk, and thrift shops have kept me well entertained.

Tip for future students

For your first quarter at UCSC I would recommend taking a lighter class load(between 12 and 15 units) so you are not overwhelmed with new material. This is because when transitioning into college it can be difficult for some students to find a sustainable balance between school and social life. Additionally, as a first year you are unable to bring a car on campus although there are many local churches that sell parking spots to college students. I would recommend researching this if you would like to go on weekend trips throughout the school year. My last tip is to find a designated study area outside of your dorm room so you don't get distracted by your roommates during zoom meetings, online tests, or homework assignments.

Favorite class

My favorite class at UCSC has been Introduction to Legal Studies taught by lecturer Nate Coben. This class is required for all Legal Studies majors and gives you a broad overview of the criminal justice system. Some interesting topics that were touched on include, the Guantanamo Bay military prison, immigration law, child support, civility laws, as well as mass incarceration.

Career goals

After I graduate college a year early in 2028, I plan to take a gap year to study for the LSAT and hopefully intern at a law firm. Then, I will attend law school to become an Environmental Lawyer. As of now, I hope to focus on agricultural waste and pesticides impact on water sources as well as the atmosphere.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal way to spend a night in Santa Cruz would start with grabbing dinner at Hula's Island Grill(my go to order is the jungle tofu bowl) and then seeing the sunset at a local beach. I would then end the night by watching the latest episode of Survivor with my friends.

High school or secondary school

Sonoma Valley High School

Previous college

In high school I dual enrolled in Santa Rosa Junior College to earn some units before applying to a 4-year college. In result of taking these classes alongside AP exams, I am able to graduate a year early!

Favorite spot on campus

My favorite spot on campus is the Arboretum. There is an abundance of unique trees, flowers, and plants that are interesting to look at. Additionally, there are a variety of seating options where you can complete school work, have a picnic, or relax.