Over Spring Break, March 30-31, eight students from the Guardian Scholars Program attended a 2 day overnight trip to visit UC Santa Cruz. In addition to discovering the amazing academic opportunities and becoming immersed on campus, the students were able to connect with current UCSC students from the Smith Renaissance Scholars Program. Students were able to learn the additional resources offered to them to succeed on campus. While many students expressed how large the campus is, current UCSC Smith Renaissance Scholar students reassured the students they have a safe community to support them when they transfer as well as support their dreams and aspirations once they have received their Bachelor’s degree. Students were also able to enjoy local attractions such as the infamous Santa Cruz Boardwalk, explore downtown Santa Cruz and eat at local restaurants.
Traveling to Santa Cruz and UCSC was a first time experience for many of our students and was well received! Some students began to envision themselves attending UCSC, while others discussed their interest in applying for other 4-year universities including UCs and CSUs. Many were shocked by the sheer size of the campus, but the amount of resources and support they can find at the 4-year universities. The Guardian Scholars program looks forward to future college visits in the future!
The Guardian Scholars is a program at Skyline College that provides resources and services to foster youth on campus.
For more information, please contact skygsp@smccd.edu or (650) 738-4185
Article by Tia Holiday | Photos by GSP staff
