Jeanette Huang

Major(s) and Minor (if any)*

Environmental Studies 

If you are a first-generation and/or income-eligible student, what has your experience been like at UCSB? 

Being first-generation and income eligible, I have been lucky enough to feel support at UCSB through programs like EOP. I was in STEP, am a member of the Promise Scholars, and also a Peer Mentor in the ARC. Many departments and faculty at UCSB do their best to support students from all different backgrounds, which has made me feel very integrated into the community on campus. 

What would you like to share with students about your experience at UCSB?

The nice thing about UCSB is that so much of your time is completely determined by what you want to do. You choose the courses and professors you like, find the student organizations you feel welcomed in, and have opportunities around every corner. Being on campus, surrounded by motivated peers, truly helps make you feel like your not alone during your academic career here. 

Top tips for fellow students? (Study tips, self care hacks, fav resources on campus, etc)

My highest recommendation is to go to events, all of the different student, academic, and other organizations on campus are here to support students. We want you to take advantage of the resources we provide, whether that's just popping in for free food, staying for good company, or just mingling at the events. We love to see everyone show out, and you might find great friends and opportunities while your there. 

Best advice you've received that has helped you at UCSB.

The best advice I have received at UCSB is something along the lines of "just talk to them." Whether that is professors or sending out an application, you won't know till you try, and one of the most wonderful things about being at UCSB is that everyone is willing to help. There's no shame in trying, some of the best opportunities I have had are ones I didn't think would pan out. 

Why did you choose to be an EOP peer mentor?

I had the opportunity to be in two other programs that EOP also works with, STEP and Promise Scholars, and these have proven to be super helpful ways to be engaged on campus. I had heard about the ARC, but I figured the best way to really be involved was to be the one organizing the space. I sent the application and was fortunate enough to be able to work with an amazing and supportive team at EOP.