Merrill College is dedicated to helping students engage responsibly with the world. As a community, we strive to embrace formative practices - to learn what we don’t know and how to know it, and to take action on what we have learned - in order to create a more just and inclusive world. Merrill strives to help students understand and develop their positions. We intentionally make space for a diversity of perspectives and encourage community members to own their impact on others. College Merrill WELCOME TO 2023-2024 THE MERRILL COLLEGE MISSION STATEMENT:
MERRILL PROGRAMS & LEADERSHIP OFFICE (MPLO)
About us:
The Merrill Programs and Leadership Office MPLO is a valuable resource center dedicated to enhancing your college experience by planning and implementing enriching student programs. With the assistance of our talented and committed Program Assistants, Merrill Student Government members, Orientation and Welcome Leaders, in partnership with our Residential Staff, the Programs Office works tirelessly to create a vibrant and inclusive community for all. We believe active involvement in student life is key to fostering a sense of belonging and personal growth.
Please take advantage of the exceptional resources and opportunities the Merrill Programs Office provides by attending our events, getting involved with Merrill Student Government, or *Pottery Co-Op (membership dues). Together, we can create a thriving community that enriches your college journey and fosters lifelong friendships.
My name is Veronica Shane-Vasquez (she/her/ella). I'm a queer geek, butch, Chicana, wifey, and mom. I run the MPLO and serve as the advisor for Merrill Student Government and the Pottery Co-operative.
I was born and raised in East San Jose, CA, and I am a first-gen college student who graduated from the University of San Francisco when I was 30.
I am passionate about Social Justice liberation, community organizing, and building mutually trusting relationships. I use this relationship-building to create long-lasting supportive relationships with students, staff, and faculty.
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
PROGRAMS ASSISTANTS (PA)
ELIZABETH (SHE/HER/ELLA) | LEAD PA
Hi! I'm Elizabeth and I use she/her/ella pronouns. I am from San Diego, right near the Mexican border. I am a third-year Education and Psychology double major and I am queer Mexican American. I like to read and crochet, so if you ever have any book recs or crochet ideas let me know! Oh yeah, I also have a bunny named Shrek! :)
DELIA (SHE/HER/ELLA) | PA
Hi everyone! My name is Delia (she/her/ella) and I’m a third-year Psychology major. I’m Mexican American and I’m from San Diego, California. I like to read, paint, and watch figure skating. A fun fact about me is that I’ve swam with dolphins in Cabo San Lucas.
WUMI (SHE/HER) | PA
Hello everyone! My full name is Oluwatunwumi but I go by Wumi. I was born and raised in Nigeria but I moved to California six years ago. I'm a third-year Legal Studies and Critical Race and Education Studies (CRES) major. I love pepperoni pizza (basic, I know) and could literally eat it every day, even though my stomach hates it. I'm really into afro beats, poetry, and fashion, and I'm always down to go to a protest or social justice movement!
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
ORIENTATION WELCOME LEADERS (OWL)
ALANA (SHE/HER) | OWL
Hi, my name is Alana and my pronouns are she/her. I am a Computer Science major and a Merrill affiliate. I am from Covina, Ca. I really like to craft and sew. I also enjoy exploring and trying new things. A fun fact about me is that I do a really good Jennifer Coolidge impression.
ANGELA (SHE/THEY) | OWL
Hello, my name is Angela. My pronouns are she/they and I am from the city of San Diego. I’m first generation Chicana, I’m majoring in theater arts and minoring in education. I enjoy singing and playing the guitar. A fun fact is that I have a lizard named Tony.
CHIAMAKA (SHE/HER) | OWL
Hi! My name is Chiamaka and my pronouns are she/her. I’m a Nigerian-American from Los Angeles, and I’m a psychology major. I really enjoy watching horror films by myself. A fun fact about me is that I’ve traveled out of the country at least 6 times in my life.
CLARKE (SHE/HER) | OWL
Hey! My name is Clarke (she/her) and I’m a Sociology major. I’m African-American and from the Bay Area. I really like playing volleyball and a fun fact about me is that I did a Harry Potter movie marathon with my friend.
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
ORIENTATION WELCOME LEADERS (OWL)
DEVIN
(HE/HIM) | OWL
Hi! My name is Devin, my pronouns are he/him, and I’m from Eugene Oregon! I’m half Indian and Danish and I’m majoring in computer science. I like to go climbing, slackline and volleyball! A fun fact about me is that I had a pet tree frog and spiny flower mantis.
DYLAN
(ANY/ALL) | OWL
Howdy all! My name is Dylan (any/all) and I’m a 3rd-year CS major! ^ ^ I’m Vietnamese-American, from Seattle, and in my free time, I like to produce music and make games. :3 Fun fact! In high school, I constructed my own language for a fantasy story.
GABRIELA (SHE/THEY) | OWL
Hiya! My name is Gabriela Rioja and my pronouns are she/they. I’m a Peruvian- American from the San Francisco area. I’m going on my second year majoring Sociology and Latino Studies. A fun fact about me is that I have a cool and extensive jewelry collection.
KAYLEE
(SHE/HER) | OWL
hi! my name is kaylee morales. my pronouns are she/her and i’m from la! im a latina in stem! go computer science and game design! i really enjoy doing nails and playing video games and a fun fact is that i collect funko pops.
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
ORIENTATION WELCOME LEADERS (OWL)
JESSIE (THEY/THEM) | OWL
Hey! My name is Jessie and my pronouns are they/them. I’m an applied mathematics major and I’m from the Bay Area specifically Brisbane. I like dancing, playing video games, and being with friends. A fun fact about me is that I love watching kids shows and I took the muppets class here at ucsc!
NATE (HE/HIM) | OWL
Nate Tochterman (He/him). I’m from Sacramento, California. I am Jewish American and majoring in history. I like to go on hikes, play basketball, and go on bike rides with my friends. Also, I enjoy cooking and trying new things. A fun fact is that I can play Superwoman by Stevie Wonder on piano.
Principles of Community Caring: We promote mutual respect, trust and support to foster bonds that strengthen the community.
Diverse: We embrace diversity in all its forms and we strive for an inclusive community that fosters an open, enlightened and productive environment.
Open: We believe free exchange of ideas requires mutual respect and consideration for our differences.
Purposeful: We are a participatory community united by shared commitments to: service to society; preservation and advancement of knowledge; and innovative teaching and learning.
Just: We are committed to due process, respect for individual dignity and equitable access to resources, recognition and rewards.
Disciplined: We seek to advance common goals through reasonable and realistic practices, procedures and expectations.
Celebrative: We celebrate the heritage, achievements and diversity of the community and the uniqueness and contributions of our members.
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
Welcome Week is an opportunity for our professional staff and student leaders to introduce new and continuing students living on and off campus to your affiliated college community and the greater UC Santa Cruz & Santa Cruz community. Please visit and add the Merrill Programs and Events calendar. The calendar will also be populated with year-round events. bit.ly/MerrillWelcomeWeek
Please visit the Campus-wide welcome week schedule Office of the Registrar for academic calendars and important deadlines.
orientation.ucsc.edu/fall/schedule-info.html registrar.ucsc.edu/calendar/index.html
ucsc.edu/tools/calendars.html calendar.com/google-calendar-guide/
For more information on managing your Google Calendar visit
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
* = required
FAMILY AND FRIEND LOUNGE | FRI 9/22 & SAT 9/23 8AM-4PM | BAOBAB LOUNGE
Rest, relax, and refresh at the Family and Friends Lounge at the Baobab Lounge. Enjoy snacks, games, and activities for young children as you meet Crown and Merrill provosts and student leaders!
FIRST NIGHT JITTERS | FRI 9/22 8PM9:30PM | CULTURAL CENTER
Leave your anxiety for the new school year behind and join us for a fun-filled night of games, laughter, and making new friends.
*MERRILL WELCOME | SAT 9/23 7PM8:30PM | CULTURAL CENTER
Learn how to navigate college life in a fun way! Follow the bagpipes to the Merrill Welcome. We guarantee you’ll learn lots and have fun. :)
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
* = required
MERRILL RECESS | SAT 9/23 AFTER MERRILL WELCOME | MERRILL PLAZA
Are you ready to strengthen the bonds of our Merrill community through laughter, teamwork, and games? Come join us on the Plaza after the Merrill Welcome to find out!
UCSC CAMPUS TOUR | SUN 9/24 10AM11:30AM | CULTURAL CENTER
Come by for an informational welcome around campus. Learn about the most important spots on campus for your college journey.
SLUG LIFE 101 | SUN 9/24 2PM-3:30PM | MERRILL PLAZA
Discover the secrets to thriving in college life with a tour of Merrill College, a guide to transportation, and a workshop on sustainability. Meet us at the grass in Merrill Plaza at 2 pm to start your journey!
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
* = required
MONSTER UNIVER MOVIE NIGHT | SUN 9/24 7:30PM-9:30PM | MERRILL PLAZA
Lights, Camera, Action! Join us for an unforgettable Movie Night under the stars! Watch Monster's University with us at the Merrill Plaza on Sunday 09/24 at 7:30 PM. Don't forget your roommates and your blanket!
NATURALIST HIKE | MON 9/25 9:15AM10:45AM | MERRILL PLAZA
Meet at the Merrill Lawn (by the Plaza). Please wear comfortable shoes, bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. The hike covers a mile with hilly terrain.
*MERRILL ADVISING | MON 9/25 11AM12:30PM | ZOOM
Academic advising orientation will provide an overview of important academic information, including degree requirements, academic planning, academic policies, enrichment opportunities, and tips for a successful transition to UC Santa Cruz. You will receive an email with the zoom information.
E WEEK EVENTS AM CALENDAR
* = required
SLUG BIKING 101 | MON 9/25 1PM-3PM | BAOBAB LOUNGE
Are you bike curious? Join us for an interactive presentation! With E-Bike share on campus now is the perfect time to explore adding bikes to your transportation options!
*MERRILL TRANSFER ADVISING | MON 9/25 1PM-2:30PM | ZOOM
Academic advising orientation will provide an overview of important academic information, including degree requirements, academic planning, academic policies, enrichment opportunities, and tips for a successful transition to UC Santa Cruz. You will receive an email with the zoom information.
CORNUCOPIA | TUE 9/26 3PM-5PM | EAST FIELD
All students, faculty, and staff are invited and welcome to attend the single largest student event of the year at UC Santa Cruz, Cornucopia! Kick off the academic year on the East Upper Field with over 250 booths hosted by registered student organizations, student service offices; live performances and music hosted by KZSC 88.1, the UC Santa Cruz student-run radio station; and dinner provided by Dining Services! Click here for more information including the event map, a list of confirmed booths, and the performance schedule.
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
* = required
BOARDWALK FROLIC | TUE 9/26 6PM10:30PM | SANTA CRUZ BOARDWALK
Welcome to beautiful Santa Cruz! Please Join us for this exclusive event just for UCSC students! Purchase your $15 ticket at beachboardwalk.com/ucsc/ to enjoy a ride wristband, free arcade play, mini golf, laser tag, fright walk, laser maze, and a $10 MyBoardwalk Card.
Q&A WITH LAWN GAMES | WED 9/27 1PM-3PM | MERRILL PLAZA
Get the answers to your questions or play games to interact with other incoming students!
DRONE PICTURE | WED 9/27 1: 30PM | EAST FIELD
Wear your new Welcome Week shirt to join a picture of the entire new class!
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
* = required
CAREER FAIR | WED 9/27 10AM12:30PM | QUARRY AMPHITHEATER
Come visit the staff and spaces designed to elevate students of color, transfer students, queer and trans students, students with disabilities, and first-generation students. Learn about the resources for students seeking financial support, tutoring, and career advice, or are navigating college as independent students.
*FIRST PLENARY | WED 9/27 7PM-9PM | CULTURAL CENTER
Meet your Provost and your peers in the first Merrill Plenary!
MERRILL STUDENT GOVERNMENT OPEN HOUSE | THUR 9/28 7PM-9PM | BAOBAB LOUNGE
Come out and hear about your leadership opportunities within Merrill Student Government (MSG). MSG members serve as a voice for students representing their interests and concerns to Merrill College administration and other campus constituencies.
WELCOME WEEK EVENTS PROGRAM CALENDAR
* = required
MERRILL BLOCK PARTY AND CROWN CRAFT FAIR | FRI 9/29 7PM-9PM | CULTURAL CENTER
Merrill Block Party is your one-stop destination to explore UCSC's resources, organizations, and opportunities. Join us at the Merrill Plaza on Friday 9/29 at 7 pm to learn about college life or have fun at the craft fair!
US MOVIE SCREENING | SAT 9/30 7PM | QUARRY AMPHITHEATER
This Welcome Week, join “US” for an outdoor movie at the Quarry Amphitheater on September 30th at 7pm
Admission is free! Movie snacks are free! The fun is free!
The Quarry Amphitheater is an outdoor venue so dress for the weather. Presented by the Division of Student Affairs and Success
@ucscmerrillcollege bit.ly/ADDLINK Follow us to stay updated with all events and opportunities at Merrill!!
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IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW
HOUSING POLICIES:
Many students living in the residential buildings make two important discoveries: first, they have more individual freedom than before; and second, the intense academic demands and shared living arrangements require more self-control and individual discipline than ever before. It is our goal to provide a safe, secure, and educational community for all residents. In that spirit, this list is compiled to highlight some of the policies, rules, and regulations (this is by no means a complete list). All of these are in conjunction with the university policies stipulated in the UC Santa Cruz Student Policies and Regulations Handbook and the Terms and Conditions of residence.
Please read more at housing.ucsc.edu/policies/deanofstudents. ucsc.edu/student-conduct/student-handbook/
STUDENT HANDBOOK AND UNIVERSITY POLICIES:
The Student Policies and Regulations Handbook ("Handbook") integrates the University of California Policies Applying to Campus Activities, Organizations, and Students ("Policies") available on the Web at http://policy.ucop.edu/doc/2710518/PACAOS-11 and Santa Cruz campus implementing regulations applying to campus activities, organizations, and students.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY:
Academic integrity is the cornerstone of a university education. Academic dishonesty diminishes the university as an institution and all members of the university community. It tarnishes the value of a UCSC degree.
Please read more at: registrar.ucsc.edu/ navigator/section1/academic-integrity. html
Cultural Humility Cultural Humility
WhyPracticeIt? WhyPracticeIt? whatisit? whatisit?
Cultural humility is a mindset of being open and embracing different cultures even if you don’t fully understand them
It is a practice of reflecting on how one's own biases, experiences and world view impact their interactions with others.
It is a lifelong process of being open to learn and understanding that we don’t know everything.
An environment of cultural humility makes everyone feel valued and included.
It helps to reduce biases, foster inclusivity, and build stronger relationships, which contributes to a more equitable community.
Learnmore Learnmore
Overall, it is about learning from and valuing others perspectives http://bit.ly/principles-of-community https://bit.ly/what-is-cultural-humility
