STaR Program students

Student Transition and Retention (STaR) Program

Overview

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. 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.

A cornerstone of the STaR Program is the Letters and Science (LTS) course series which runs the entire first year:

  • Fall: The First Year Experience
  • Fall LTS break down the mystique of college life and open doors to a rich, fulfilling UC Davis experience.
  • Winter: Career Exploration and Professional Development
  • Winter LTS explores the formal and informal processes of discovering your passion and choosing the path (major, advanced studies, etc.) in support of this discovery. Choosing a major vs. finding your passion is a larger focus.
  • Spring: The Group Dynamic
  • This course explores group dynamics through intentional teamwork exercises and opportunities through group and team building activities, exercises, and practicums. Students will explore multitude of approaches to success and problem solving in the professional and graduate school settings. 

    Topics include learning about the expectations of the professional community and skill development to meet them. Students will also practice assessment and problem-solving skills necessary for success in the professional world. Students will also participate in "Shine While You Dine" dinner etiquette training, where an actual formal dinner will be served.

STaR Firsts:

  • First 1st Generation First Year Aggie Connection (FYAC) in UC Davis history
  • First 1st Generation "for credit" (unit awarding class) First Year Aggie Connection in UC Davis history
  • First 1st Generation First Year Seminar (FRS) in UC Davis history

Next Steps

Next Steps

If you are interested in taking this 2-unit course in the Spring Quarter 2025, you can now sign up for one of the following offerings:

LTS 001 Sec. 001 CRN 44591

Wednesday, 12:10-2:00pm

Room: 217 Olson

LTS 001 Sec. 002 CRN 44592

Thursday, 12:10 - 2:00pm

Room: 251 Olson

LTS 001 Sec. 003 CRN 44593

Wednesday, 12:10-2:00pm

Room: SSH 273

STAR
STaR Student Pictures

   Student Testimonials

photo collage of students with a dark blue overlay and text quotes: "It was also through LTS where I was able to reflect on myself as a person through the weekly journal entries... I was able to... track my progress throughout the quarter... and see if the way I was studying, was working."

 

Collage of students with dark blue overlay and text quotes: "This seminar has been an amazing source of knowledge and has opened a door to many of my friends. LTS has some of the most charismatic people running it and I would recommend this course to anyone." "It was a space to ask for help." "The instructors always found a way to inspire the class to follow their passion."
two students sitting outside and looking at a laptop together

L&S Peer MAP: Mentorship for Achievement Program

This program matches both first-year students and transfer students with current upperclassmen within the College.

Learn more