Event Date
We hope you can join us for our virtual information session where we will share about our Student Transition and Retention (STaR) Program! The STaR Program is the College of Letters and Science's premiere support program for first year, first-generation college students who are pursuing a major in the College of Letters of Science. You'll get to hear what our program is all about from our team of instructors, peer mentors, and current STaR students. Find out how we can be your community (and home away from home) when you come to UC Davis!
This is perfect for those who couldn't make it to Aggie Day in-person last Saturday, or maybe you DID attend our session but wanted to learn more and continue asking questions to us. All are welcome!
Note: Although we would love if you could register beforehand, no worries if you can't! If you are joining right before the meeting, or when it has already begun -- all you need to do is complete the registration, and you will get access to the link right away.
About the STaR Program
The Student Transition and Retention (STaR) Program was created to bridge the gap from high school to college, provide the success tools and methodology (strategies) required for optimal success in college, and offer a community of support.
Historically, first-generation college students arrive at the university with non-traditional challenges and families who would love to support them but may not possess the knowledge and means with which to do so. In addition, a preparation gap exists between high school and college.
We encourage you to learn more about our program, meet our team, and read student testimonials about how STaR has affected them in their college journey, all available on our website below.
Visit the STaR Program Website
Student Testimonies
Check out articles from previous STaR students, sharing about the profound impact that the STaR Program had on them and their college journey.
Gaining Community & Confidence Through the STaR Program
"Stepping onto the UC Davis campus as a first-generation college student can be daunting to say the least. It is incredibly difficult to navigate the extreme academic and social changes happening all around you. As I explored Davis, feeling like a lost and anxious first-year student, my guide was the Student Transition and Retention (STaR) program."
- Sydney Yacullo, L&S Ambassador, previously enrolled in STaR
Leaning into the Confusion to Level Up and Build a Future in Physics
"STaR offers weekly seminars and mentorship, which Stallard said is important so students don’t feel lost on a university campus this size. There was one day when academic advisor and STaR instructor Mike Valenzuela mentioned that she looked stressed lately and asked if she was okay. It meant a lot to her that someone on campus knew her well enough to ask.
- Kelsey Stallard, Lead STaR Peer Mentor in 2025-2026, previously enrolled in STaR
More testimonials can be found on the STaR Program website.
We can't wait to welcome you to the STaR family!
