In This Section:

One Student’s Perspective:

" “Looking back I can’t even remember everything that happened in the first few weeks of school. I was overwhelmed with my newfound freedom and responsibilities, the sheer number of events and opportunities available to me, trying to make good first impressions, and making new friends. I remember hanging out with the people on my floor a lot; everyone was in the same situation so they were all friendly and open-minded. Soon enough I felt at home at UCSB. I didn’t think my first year would be hard but when winter quarter rolled around I found myself having trouble focusing on classes, keeping in touch with people from home, and feeling comfortable with myself. In retrospect, I should have allowed myself to be more open to change. Despite (or perhaps because of) all of the issues I faced, freshman year was liberating.” "

—Sophmore, Film Studies

Myth:

If I do not get along with my roommate, my college experience will be ruined for the year.

Fact:

Your roommate is one of the 20,000+ students here at UCSB and there are many other groups of people and environments which you can be become a part of. Students have a wide variety of resources that they can become involved in, giving the student freedom to choose what they like and feel comfortable with. Such resources include intramural sports, student clubs and organizations, and focus groups.