About

Over 34% of our undergraduate student population are first-generation, neither parent(s)/guardian(s) received a four-year college degree. 

In spring 2017, following the pioneering leadership of faculty and staff at the University of California, Irvine, and with the endorsement of the UC Office of the President, UC Santa Cruz joined all ten UC campuses in a systemwide effort to recognize and support our first-generation community (faculty, staff, students, and alumni).

The UC Santa Cruz First Generation Initiative is an effort focused on welcoming and creating a supportive campus environment for all of our students.

Today, the First Generation initiative supports interns, hosts annual events and workshops, and co-sponsors various activities throughout the campus.