Stepping onto the UC Davis campus as a first-generation college student can be daunting to say the least. It is incredibly difficult to navigate the extreme academic and social changes happening all around you. As I explored Davis, feeling like a lost and anxious first-year student, my guide was the Student Transition and Retention (STaR) program.
What is STaR?
The STaR Program is a part of the First-Year Aggie Connections Program, which works to provide first year students with a sense of community and belonging. Offered in Fall, Winter, and Spring quarters, The STaR seminar is a well-rounded series that addresses the multifaceted nature of being a college student, and teaches a variety of practical skills that allow students to thrive at UC Davis and beyond.
Mike Valenzuela, STaR Program Coordinator and College of Letters and Science Academic Advisor, highlights that the program was built to address “the disparities and achievement gaps among 1st gens.” Moreover, it works to ease the transition from high school to college by understanding the holistic needs of first-generation students and providing the resources to succeed.
The Future of STaR is Bright
Just in Fall 2025 alone, the program has seen immense growth. According to Valenzuela, “We have 218 students enrolled in our fall classes…an explosion that is nearly double what we’ve done in the past.” Further, he expressed hope that the program can experience “intentional, managed, and successful growth,” promoting a positive first-generation experience at UC Davis for all.
The Personal Impact of STaR
As a student that enrolled in the STaR seminar during my entire first year, I couldn’t agree more with Valenzuela’s desire for the program’s expansion. During my time with STaR, I learned about a plethora of campus resources from the Career Center, to the Aggie Compass Basic Needs Center, and the Academic Assistance and Tutoring Centers (AATC). Furthermore, I gained practical skills — such as how to effectively use schedule builder — that I wouldn’t have survived my first year at Davis without!
The seminar also fosters an immensely supportive community. I was surrounded by students who similarly struggled with navigating college for the first time, and felt empowered knowing that I wasn’t alone. Being a STaR student, with my newfound community rooting me on, I was instilled with hope and confidence in myself and my abilities. I walked into Davis as a shy student who often kept to myself in class, however, as a result of STaR, I began to thrive socially. I felt more confident presenting in front of people, asking for help, and stepping outside of my comfort zone.
The lessons taught by the instructors, peer mentors, and guest speakers have largely contributed to my opportunities and triumphs on campus. As a result of the skillsets provided through STaR, I’ve joined student organizations, gotten multiple on-campus jobs, and performed well in my classes, for all of which I am eternally grateful.
The Program’s Heartwarming Purpose
While expressing the program’s significance, Valenzuela reflected, “I almost did not stay in college…I don’t want any of our students to have the same risk that I experienced. I want them to have a defined and solid path to success.” This mission is promoted every day by the incredible work of the instructors and peer mentors.
Breakdown of the Seminar
The STaR Program began about 10 years ago and is split into a three-part series. Fall quarter is a “Davis 101” experience that allows students to learn the skills and resources necessary to make their experience as an Aggie exceptional. During the winter quarter, the seminar focuses on career development, guiding students on creating effective LinkedIn and Handshake profiles, thriving in interviews, and choosing a career path. Finally, the spring quarter seminar — a fan favorite for many — focuses on teamwork and collaboration. The most anticipated experience of spring quarter is the “Shine While You Dine” dinner. Members of all STaR sections, instructors, and peer mentors gather in the ARC ballrooms for a night full of learning, laughter, and the recognition of each student’s success.
A Transformational First-Generation Experience
My experience in STaR transformed my first year of college for the better. Not only did I learn valuable skills, I found a support system that helped build my confidence so that I could face my imposter syndrome head-on, and affirm that I am worthy and capable of being a student at UC Davis.
To any first-generation student that is searching for encouragement, community, and guidance, the STaR program will passionately support your success and allow you to flourish at UC Davis.
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