Events

January Slugs and Steins with Professor Marco Rolandi
2026-01-12 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
Slugs & Steins is a monthly series of informal discussions highlighting UC Santa Cruz’s amazing faculty members. Talks are held on the 2nd Monday of each month with topics ranging from organic artichokes to endangered zebras, self-driving cars to Shakespeare. This month, we welcome Professor Marco Rolandi.
Marco Rolandi is a professor of electrical and computer engineering at UC Santa Cruz, where he holds the Jack Baskin Endowed Chair in Engineering. He is also the co-founder and advisor of CruzFoam, which creates sustainable packaging solutions. His research focuses on bioelectronic systems and devices, biological control in regenerative medicine and synthetic biology, and their translational applications. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, the BBC, and others. He currently leads a team on a multicampus multimillion dollar program to accelerate wound regeneration using bioelectronics. Rolandi holds a Ph.D. in applied physics from Stanford.
REGISTER

Coffee with Provost Aims McGuinness
2026-01-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Merrill College Office, 641 Merrill Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064
FREE fresh hot coffee, tea, cocoa and snacks. Featuring Alta Organic Fair Trade coffee; locally & woman owned.

Coffee & More with Merrill Provost Aims McGuinness
2026-01-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Merrill College Office, 641 Merrill Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064
Grab a cup to go or stay and join the conversation. Provost Aims McGuinness is here to answer your questions, provide support . . . and hand out FREE coffee, cocoa, tea, and breakfast snacks.

Diabetes Prevention Program
2026-01-13 12:00 - 13:00
The UCSC Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is a 1-year lifestyle change program designed for non-diabetic individuals who are at risk for either prediabetes or Type 2 Diabetes from progressing fully to Type 2 Diabetes.
Over the course of a year, trained lifestyle coaches and group support are utilized to help you strive toward your health goals. The classes are held via Zoom and includes discussions on nutrition education, ways to increase physical activity, ideas to stay motivated, and stress management tools.
Fill out the DPP Informational Session registration for the Zoom link. The informational session will be recorded, and a link to recording will be sent out after the session. Note that the program requires live participation when it starts, and is not available for recording.
Visit the UCSC DPP website for more information.
For questions, reach out to Health and Well-being Specialist, Ashley Parker, at aseparke@ucsc.edu.

Info Session: Global Seminar Art in a Globalized World: UK
2026-01-13 12:00 - 13:00
Learn more at our upcoming Information Session: Tuesday, January 13 at 12:00-1:00 pm via Zoom.
Register Here.
Earn 6 units on a summer program on the Global Seminar: Art in a Globalized World: UK. The program is taught by Dee Hibbert-Jones, Professor of Art, Digital Art, and New Media.
Quick Facts:

Location: Falmer, Brighton and Hove, United Kingdom
Courses: ART 186 Art and Globalization (6 units)
Dates: June 29-July 17, 2026
Eligibility: Open to students who are an Art Major or Minor (or with special instructor approval), have completed at least 45 units by the time of departure, and have at least a 2.3 GPA.
Finances: Financial aid applies, and scholarships are available! The budget with program fees and expenses is posted on the website.
How to apply: Visit here. Applications open on December 1 and close on March 2.
Get in touch: Email your questions to globallearning@ucsc.edu

Program Description: In this studio art, students create site-responsive artworks across media created in response to our visits to museums, galleries, sites, and exhibitions in London and Brighton, UK. Studio work and research explore what it means to make art in a global art world (sculpture, drawing, zines, graphic works, animation, photography, installation and/or performance). We will work in the new media studios at the University of Sussex, and students will live on campus at the University. This class includes art making, lectures, docent tours, museum visits, discussions and critique by UK artists and a final gallery exhibition on campus. More information can be read here.

"Words That Impress: Creating a Great Résumé & Cover Letter"
2026-01-13 13:30 - 14:30 | Career Success Student Lounge (125 Hahn), 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, United States
Crafting a fantastic Resume and Cover Letter are the key to getting an interview and landing a job! Join us for this informative workshop that will cover best practices for resume and cover letter development. You’ll gain understanding about the perfect format, navigating AI filters, and how to write captivating resume bullet points and engaging cover letter paragraphs. The presentation will be 30 minutes, followed by 30 minutes of optional worktime here in our office with coaches to give you brief input.
We will provide captions for the presentation. If you have disability-related needs, please contact the Career Success office at csuccess@ucsc.edu or (831) 459-4420 as soon as possible.
YOU BELONG HERE
Programs and services are open to all, consistent with state and federal law, as well as the University of California’s nondiscrimination policies. Every initiative—whether a student service, faculty program, or community event—is designed to be accessible, inclusive, and respectful of all identities. To learn more, please visit UC Nondiscrimination Statement or Nondiscrimination Policy for UC Publications.

Labor Against ICE
2026-01-13 17:00 - 19:00 | Merrill Cultural Center, 200 McLaughlin Dr, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064
Trump’s second term has been marked by a dramatic increase in immigration enforcement operations, including the deployment of federal and national guard troops to major cities across the United States. Ramped-up ICE raids have resulted in injuries, deaths, and the disappearance of migrants and non migrants alike. As legal challenges demanding the cessation of indiscriminate workplace and neighborhood raids have largely failed, how are workers and communities fighting back? This event is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Refreshments provided. Immigrant and labor rights organizations will also be tabling.
Please join UC Santa Cruz’s Center for Labor and Community for a panel discussion with co-founder of LA Educators for Racial Justice (LAE4RJ), Denisha Jordan (United Teachers Los Angeles), founder of OEA Rapid Response Team and dual-language teacher, Jessie Papalia (Oakland Education Association), Emergency Medicine Resident, SatKartar Khalsa (SEIU 1021 Committee of Interns and Residents), Alex Quintero (@allthingslabor), and regional labor and community organizer Cesar Lara (California Federation of Labor) to learn how labor is organizing to defend migrants on the job.
RSVP HERE
Español_Labor_Against_ICE
English_Labor Against ICE

Medical Device Quality and Design Info Session
2026-01-13 18:00 - 19:00
Advance your career in medical device design and quality.
As healthcare technology evolves, professionals who understand global regulatory standards, risk management, and quality systems are in high demand. Learn how to design, document, and validate medical devices, digital health solutions, and AI/ML-based devices while ensuring compliance with FDA, ISO, and EU MDR requirements.
Speaker
Join Kiran Gulati, chair of the UCSC Silicon Valley Extension Medical Device Quality and Design program, for an inside look at how our courses provide hands-on training, practical case studies, and industry-relevant skills that prepare you for roles in quality engineering, regulatory compliance, and design assurance.
Sponsor
This winter info session is sponsored by the Medical Device Quality and Design certificate program.
Register today!

User Experience and Web Design info session
2026-01-13 18:00 - 19:00
Design digital experiences people love to use.
In today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape, organizations need professionals who can combine empathy, usability, and aesthetics to create interfaces that engage and delight users. Learn how UX and web design specialists use research‑driven methods, prototyping tools, and inclusive design principles to build seamless digital experiences across platforms.
Your Speaker
Join Nicole Sharratt, chair of the UCSC Silicon Valley Extension User Experience & Web Design program, for an inside look at how our courses equip you with the skills to lead user‑centered design projects—whether you’re shaping websites, apps or digital products.
Sponsor
This winter info session is sponsored by UCSC Silicon Valley Extension User Experience & Web Design program.
Register today!

Info Session: Global Seminar Food Study, Field Study in London
2026-01-14 10:00 - 11:00
Learn more at our upcoming Information Session: Wednesday, January 14 at 10:00-11:00 am via Zoom.
Register Here.
Earn 12 units on a summer program on the Global Seminar: Food Study Field Study in London this summer. This program is taught by Melissa L. Caldwell, Professor of Anthropology, and Anthropology Instructor Rikki Brown. It is a great opportunity to fulfill Anthropology requirements and/or units towards graduation!
Quick Facts:

Location: London, United Kingdom
Courses: ANTH 161 Anthropology of Food – 6 units (satisfies PE-H); and ANTH 151 Workshop in Ethnography – 6 units
Led by: Professor Melissa L. Caldwell and Instructor Rikki Brown
Eligibility: Open to students from any major who have completed 45 units by the time of departure and have a minimum of a 2.3 GPA
Dates: July 27-August 29, 2026
Finances: Financial aid applies, and scholarships are available! The budget will be posted on the website when it is available.
How to apply: Visit here for instructions. Applications open on December 1 and close on March 2.
Get in touch: Email your questions to globallearning@ucsc.edu.

Program Description: How do anthropologists learn about a place? Using contemporary ethnographic methods, they cultivate their senses to see, hear, touch, smell, and taste the stories and worlds around them. In this dual course summer program taught by a UCSC Anthropology Professor, London will become a living laboratory to learn how anthropologists study and practice ethnographic methods, with a focus on how and why food is an especially important gateway to understanding culture, power, exchange, memory, identity, histories of colonialism, and postcolonial futures. Immersive learning activities will provide exceptional opportunities to experience London’s multicultural food traditions firsthand. Discover more here.

Cardiff Open House
2026-01-14 12:00 | Cardiff House, 114 Carriage House Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064
Cardiff Open House is an opportunity for campus partners and the greater community to visit the American Indian Resource Center's new shared location with the Women's Center at the Cardiff House near the base of campus. Stay connected with our centers and the resources we offer by visiting with us & touring our space.

Research Lunch & Learn: Research Security
2026-01-14 12:00 - 13:00 | https://events.ucsc.edu/event/research-lunch-learn-research-security/
Join us on January 14, 2026, 12-1 p.m., for an overview of evolving research security expectations and how they affect proposal development, award management, and ongoing project compliance. Led by Jeffrey Weekley, Director of Research IT, Nutan Mellegers, OSP Associate Director, and Csilla Csaplár, AVC Research, this virtual session will discuss the Research Security Training requirement, when it applies, and why research security matters. Participants will learn how research, data, and cybersecurity terms in proposals and awards trigger review, how PIs can engage during that process, and the resources available to support compliance. We’ll also highlight key risks and how to stay ahead of them.
Join: Zoom link for this session.

American Indian Resource Center and the Women's Center Cardiff House Winter Welcome Open House
2026-01-14 12:00 - 14:00 | Cardiff House, 114 Carriage House Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064
Cardiff House Winter Welcome Open House is an opportunity for new and returning students, and campus partners, including staff, and faculty to visit the American Indian Resource Center and the Women’s Center at the Cardiff House near the base of campus. Stay connected with our centers and the resources we offer by visiting with us and touring our space.The purpose of the Cardiff Winter Welcome Open House is to create a space where guests feel welcomed and able to ask questions and learn more about what the American Indian Resource Center, Women’s Center, and People of Color Sustainability Collective do and offer to students at UC Santa Cruz as well as become more familiarized with the Cardiff House itself and the resources within it.

Career Success Drop-In Coaching at the Ethnic Resource Center - Winter 2026
2026-01-14 13:30 - 15:00 | Crown Provost House, 660 Crown Service Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064
Drop-in with Career Coach & Engagement Specialist Bridge Kennedy to discuss Career Exploration, Job Search Strategy, Interview Prep, Grad School Prep, or whatever’s on your mind related to your career success!
Time: 1:30pm – 3:00pm
Dates: Wednesdays, Weeks 2 & 5 of Winter Quarter 2026
1/14/2026 & 2/4/2026
Location: Crown Provost House / Ethnic Resource Centers Lounge
YOU BELONG HERE
Programs and services are open to all, consistent with state and federal law, as well as the University of California’s nondiscrimination policies. Every initiative—whether a student service, faculty program, or community event—is designed to be accessible, inclusive, and respectful of all identities. To learn more, please visit UC Nondiscrimination Statement or Nondiscrimination Policy for UC Publications.

Global Cafe (Winter 2026)
2026-01-14 14:00 - 16:00 | Classroom Unit, Classroom Unit, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, Select a Country:
International Student Services & Programming invites you to our monthly Global Cafe, a space for all international-minded community members to connect. Swing by for some refreshments and an opportunity to meet other international students and scholars, as well as Global Engagement staff. Feel free to drop in at any time and stay for as long as you’d like.
Our winter Global Cafe dates:

Wednesday, January 14
Wednesday, February 11
Wednesday, March 11

Campus Elections Orientation (Zoom)
2026-01-14 16:00 - 17:00 | https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/93207076397?pwd=[REDACTED]
2026 Campus Elections Orientation (Mandatory for Referenda Authors)
Date & Time:
Wednesday, January 14 | 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Location:
Zoom
Description:
Interested in proposing a referendum for the 2026 UCSC Campus Elections? At least one representative from each author group must attend a mandatory Campus Elections Orientation in order to initiate a referendum.
This session provides an overview of the Campus Elections process, timeline, and relevant policies, and includes guidance and examples from prior election cycles on how to author a referendum, opinion poll, or amendment.
Additional orientation sessions will also be held on Friday, January 16 (12:00–1:00 p.m.) and Tuesday, January 20 (10:00–11:00 a.m.). Sessions will be recorded and posted on the Campus Elections website.
All potential referenda authors must submit a completed 2026 Campus Elections Application. Proposals involving a new student fee or an amendment to an existing fee measure also require a Supplemental Fee Measure Referenda Form and draft language.
Application deadline: Monday, January 26, 2026, by 12:00 noon.
For questions or to request accommodations, contact Campus Elections Commissioner and Associate Dean of Students for Leadership and Engagement Travis S. Becker at trbecker@ucsc.edu.

ECE Associate Teacher Info Session
2026-01-14 18:00 - 19:00 | Silicon Valley Campus, 3175 Bowers Avenue, Santa Clara, CA, 95054, United States
Start a meaningful career shaping young minds.
With early learning programs in growing demand, educators who understand child development, curriculum design, and classroom dynamics are essential. The UCSC Silicon Valley Extension Early Childhood Education: Associate Teacher certificate builds foundational expertise in teaching infants through preschool‑age children, developing age‑appropriate curriculum, and collaborating with families and communities.
Speaker
Join Ninet Moradi, chair of the program, for an inside look at how our courses can help you qualify for associate‑teacher roles, meet California licensing requirements, and launch a rewarding career supporting children’s growth and learning.
Learn more.
Visit our program page to explore the courses and opportunities within the Early Childhood Education: Associate Teacher certificate program.
Register today.

Human Computer Interaction MS Virtual Info Session
2026-01-14 19:00 - 20:00
Join us January 14 from 7 – 8 PM for our Virtual Information Session. Learn more about our program, based at the UCSC Silicon Valley Campus, where you can earn your HCI MS in 15 months. We offer:

Application fee waivers for UCSC students and alumni
Full and partial scholarships
Dedicated careers services support
Internship and research opportunities
Industry mentorship
Industry sponsored capstone projects

Register for access to the Zoom link.

Stem Cell Internships in Laboratory-based Learning (SCILL) at San Jose State University
2026-01-15 12:00 - 13:00
The San Jose State University Stem Cell Internships in Laboratory-based Learning (SJSU SCILL)
is a two-year master’s program that leads to a Master’s degree in Stem Cell Biology. During the
second year, a full-time internship will be offered to students, providing hands-on lab
training.

Some of the program’s partners include Stanford University, UC Santa Cruz, Amgen, NeuCyte, Neurona, Exir Bio, and SRI International.

The program provides:
One-year internship opportunity during the 2nd year of the program
Deadline to apply: March 1st, 2026
Join our presentation for more information and LUNCH!

You can read more and find the application by visiting
https://www.sjsu.edu/scill/index.php

Info Session: Global Seminar Mediterranean France in Marseille
2026-01-15 13:00 - 14:00
Learn more at our upcoming Information Session: Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 1:00-2:00 pm via Zoom.
Register Here.
Earn 10 units on a summer program on the Global Seminar Mediterranean France in Marseille this summer. This program is taught by Muriam Davis, Associate Professor of History, and Thomas Serres, Associate Professor of Politics.
Quick Facts:

Locations: Marseille, France
Course:
His 170 C: France and its Empire in the 20th century (5 credits)
POLI 166: Politics of Migration (5 credits)
Led by: Muriam Davis and Thomas Serres
Eligibility: Good academic and disciplinary standing, Min Age: 18, Minimum GPA- 2.3 cumulative GPA or higher at the time of application and every quarter before departure, 45 units completed by the time of departure
Dates: Summer Session 1 (Exact dates to be announced)
Finances: Financial aid applies, and scholarships are available! The budget will be posted on the website when it is available.
How to apply: Visit here for instructions. Applications open on December 1 and close on March 2.
Get in touch: Email your questions to globallearning@ucsc.edu.

Program Description: Students will study French history and politics in Marseille, a port city that has a rich tradition of immigration, activism, and cultural production. By meeting with urbanists, musicians, activists, historians, and filmmakers, they will reflect on how the diverse communities have shaped French culture and politics. They will also study the lingering effects of French colonialism and immigration policy through visits to the many museums and archives located in and around Marseille. Read about Marseille here or watch this Anthony Bourdain clip here.

The art of interviewing: From good to great.
2026-01-15 18:00 - 19:00 | Silicon Valley Campus, 3175 Bowers Avenue, Santa Clara, CA, 95054, United States
Interviews are no longer just about resumes. In this section with PK Agarwal, dean of UCSC Silicon Valley Extension, we will dive into behavioral questions, storytelling techniques, virtual interview etiquette, and ways to stand out with authenticity and confidence.

Learn to craft memorable responses to behavioral interview questions using proven storytelling frameworks.
Understand what sets standout candidates apart in both in-person and virtual interviews—including etiquette, presence, and tone.
Gain tips for showcasing your unique strengths with clarity and confidence while staying true to yourself.

This is a casual discussion with Dean Agarwal. Be sure to bring your questions and share your experience.
This event is part of the Dean Conversations: Pathways to professional success series.
Claim your seat!

How to Find a Job On Campus
2026-01-16 14:00 - 14:45
Do you need a job? Learn how to find jobs on campus and how Career Success can help you through the process! All students are welcome. The presentation will last 30 minutes, followed by a 15-minute Q&A.
We will provide captions for the presentation. If you have disability-related needs, please contact the Career Success office at csuccess@ucsc.edu or (831) 459-4420 as soon as possible.
YOU BELONG HERE
Programs and services are open to all, consistent with state and federal law, as well as the University of California’s nondiscrimination policies. Every initiative—whether a student service, faculty program, or community event—is designed to be accessible, inclusive, and respectful of all identities. To learn more, please visit UC Nondiscrimination Statement or Nondiscrimination Policy for UC Publications.

Intro to Fruit Trees
2026-01-17 10:00 - 12:30 | Hay Barn, 94 Ranch View Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, United States
This workshop will focus on fruit tree care and management, especially for those who are looking to establish and/or care for their fruit trees using organic methods. Although we will be demonstrating on a home garden scale, the techniques and methods are applicable at multiple scales—the basics are the same.
This hands-on workshop will cover:

The run up to planting (site, sun, soil)
Assessing and improving your soil
Sourcing quality trees for your area
Planting bare root trees
Post plant care
A Q&A session

REGISTER
Photo by Jim Clark

Seymour Marine Discovery Center Day Trip
2026-01-17 10:00 - 16:00 | Seymour Marine Discovery Center, 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
Join us for a full-day trip to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center on January 17
This FREE event is open to all UCSC students and includes a day by the bay exploring marine science and exhibits. No RSVP or deadline required — just show up!
Meet at Quarry Plaza by 9:00 a.m. to catch the bus with other students, or arrive on your own by 10:00 a.m. at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center.
The event runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Catch Metro back to campus after the event!
We hope to see you there!

Day of Service at the UCSC Arboretum in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
2026-01-19 09:00 - 12:00 | Arboretum, 122 Arboretum Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064
In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, please join us for a National Day of Service that encourages all Americans to volunteer and connect to improve their communities.
The UCSC Arboretum is hosting a one-day volunteer opportunity in our beautiful California Conservation Garden. By volunteering, you become part of a community that directly supports the Arboretum’s mission to conserve native plants. We will be weeding areas around our native shrubs to give them more space to grow and thrive.
If interested in this service, please fill out the required registration form on our website under “Events”. Please note, at the event you will also need to complete a simple worker’s compensation form (may not apply if already an active Arboretum volunteer).

Volunteers must be 18 years or older.

Each volunteer must fill out this form separately.

Access to the CCG requires walking on a gravel road for approximately 1/3 mile.

Plan on bringing a water bottle, and wearing long pants and long sleeves to protect from sun and possible biting insects. Please also bring garden gloves and weeding tools if you have them, otherwise they will be provided. Thank you and we look forward to meeting and working together with you!
Register
Learn more

OLLI at UCSC Sunday Speaker Meeting
2026-01-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Colleges Nine and John R. Lewis College Multi-purpose Room, 615 College Nine Road, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064
OLLI at UCSC Hosts Chris Murphy, President of the Santa Cruz Warriors
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UCSC invites the public to an in-person presentation on Sunday, January 18th, at Colleges Nine/ John R. Lewis Multipurpose Room on the UCSC campus. Join us for a social hour and presentation titled, “A Local Success Story: Inside the Santa Cruz Warriors.” Chris Murphy, President of the Santa Cruz Warriors and an active participant in several local organizations, will talk about the inner workings of the basketball and business operations of our local team. This event is free and open to the public. Bring a friend. Coffee and nibbles will be served. OLLI at UCSC is a community of adults from diverse educational, occupational and geographic backgrounds who are devoted to the pursuit of learning. For directions and free parking information visit https://olli.ucsc.edu/monthly-gatherings/location-directions-and-parking/

How Long is Long Enough: Screening and Conversation
2026-01-19 17:30 - 19:30 | Santa Cruz Barrios Unidos, 1817 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 95062, United States
Join us for a screening of How Long is Long Enough: The Excessive Sentencing of Quntos & Layla, a short documentary created by Natalie Decena, Sarina Bozorgnia, Veler Brown, and Aiden Olivier from UC Santa Cruz with support from Michael Ademaro from Georgetown Law School as part of the Making an Exoneree initiative.
Quntos Wilson and Layla Roberts were sentenced to life without parole in 1995 at the ages of 18 and 19 for a robbery in which no one was physically harmed and a mere $301 was stolen. Now approaching 50, they have each become remarkable artists and mentors behind the prison bars of Louisiana State Penitentiary (Angola).
In addition to the documentary screening, the event will include a conversation with Quntos Wilson and Layla Roberts, letter-writing, and collaborative art making.

Info Session: Global Seminar Eco-Entrepreneurship in the Netherlands
2026-01-20 12:00 - 13:00
Learn more at our upcoming Information Session: Tuesday, January 20th, 2026 at 12:00-1:00 pm via Zoom.
Register Here
Earn 10 units on a summer program on the Global Seminar Eco-Entrepreneurship in the Netherlands in Amsterdam this summer. This program is taught by Nada Miljkovic, Entrepreneurship Instructor and Program Manager for UCSC’s Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurial Development.
Quick Facts:

Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Courses: Crown 92G: Social and Creative Entrepreneurship, GE: PE-H (5 units) and Crown 194: Eco Entrepreneurship, GE: PR-S (5 units)
Led by: Crown Lecturer, Nada Miljkovic
Eligibility: Open to students from any major who have completed 90 units by time of departure and have a minimum of a 2.3 GPA
Dates: Summer Session 2 (Exact dates to be announced)
Finances: Financial aid applies, and scholarships are available! Budget will be posted on the website when it is available.
How to apply: Visit here for instructions. Applications open on December 1 and close on March 2.
Get in touch: Email your questions to globallearning@ucsc.edu.

Program Description:
Discover how entrepreneurship can bridge the gap between the Netherlands’ thriving economy and its commitment to environmental sustainability! Based in Amsterdam, this immersive program includes exciting site visits to Rotterdam, Utrecht, and beyond. You will collaborate with local sustainability-focused entrepreneurs, exploring how innovative business models can tackle the challenges of conservation and development. Through hands-on experience and seminars in entrepreneurship and sustainability, you will gain valuable insights into creating businesses that prioritize environmental well-being. Join us to reimagine what it means to value and protect life in a modern, holistic way. Discover more here.

Campus to Career: Job Talk with Chief of Staff Mikaila Kruse
2026-01-20 13:00 - 14:00 | https://events.ucsc.edu/event/campus-to-career-job-talk-with-chief-of-staff-mikaila-kruse/
Are you curious about careers in government, leadership, or public service? Join us for a job talk with UCSC alumna Mikaila Kruse, the Chief of Staff for the Riverside city mayor. Mikaila will tell us her professional story and share how her education has informed her trajectory. You’ll learn about entering the field of politics, what government work looks like, and how to apply your skills for public service.
Attendees will enter raffles for a Humanities tumbler and tote!
Register here
Learn more about Mikaila:
Mikaila Kruse is Chief of Staff to Mayor Lock Dawson of Riverside. Having worked for elected officials at the federal, state, and local level, she has a range of experience in government relations that includes serving on political campaigns, delivering constituent services, and developing legislation in Sacramento. Previously, she worked on voter registration efforts and as a substitute teacher. She graduated from UC Santa Cruz in 2015 with a BA in History and Politics and received a Master of Public Policy degree from UC Riverside in 2020.
Find more Humanities Division career events and other resources at Humanities Career Engagement

Info Session: Global Seminar Agroecology Practicum in Guatemala
2026-01-20 14:00 - 15:00
Learn more at our upcoming Information Session: Tuesday, January 20, at 2:00-3:00 p.m. via Zoom.
Register Here
Earn 6 units on a summer program on the Global Seminar Agroecology Practicum in Guatemala this summer. This program is taught by Damian Parr, Education Programs Manager and Instructor for the Agroecology Center and Michael Bakal, post-doctoral researcher.
Quick Facts:

Location: Antigua, Guatemala; Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Course:
ENVS 133 B: Agroecology Practicum (6 units)
Led by: Damian Parr and Michael Bakal
Eligibility: Good academic and disciplinary standing, Min Age: 18, 45 units completed at time of departure, Minimum GPA 2.3 cumulative GPA or higher at the time of application and every quarter prior to departure, Eligible majors: Agroecology, ENVS, additional majors by permission of the instructor.
Dates: June 17-July 2, 2026
Finances: Financial aid applies, and scholarships are available! The budget will be posted on the website when it is available.
How to apply: Visit here for instructions. Applications open on December 1, 2025, and close on March 2, 2026.
Get in touch: Email your questions to globallearning@ucsc.edu.

Program Description:
This program will explore the historical and contemporary strengths and challenges to Guatemala’s food and agricultural system through the lens of Agroecology and indigenous-led agricultural development work. Examples of learning objective topics include developing students’ competencies in biological soil fertility and pest management, tillage and cultivation, crop care, and analysis of diversified farming systems. The course frames these more technical production competencies within learning objectives related to agriculture literacies, analyzing broader societal aspects of food sovereignty, and the development of equitable and ecologically sustainable food systems. By broadening student perspectives and understandings of our diverse global community, students will strengthen their ability to think critically about solutions. Studying and working in an unfamiliar place will support students gaining a clearer sense of who they are as learners, so that they leave the program empowered to tackle the challenges – both academic and non-academic – that inevitably lie ahead.
Check out this student-produced video from a previous program!
