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.

In her first physics internship at UC Davis, undergraduate student Kelsey Stallard always felt concern she didn’t know enough. Leaning into curiosity would help a year later in her internship at Stanford University where she got to work with lasers and won a prize for her research.

For Ron Austin of Fairfield, California, this year's commencement will be a moment — and degree — more than 47 years in the making. The 66-year-old is proud he has finally completed the requirements for a Bachelor of Arts in political science.

Emiliano Rosales picked up volleyball last spring year after his first two quarters at UC Davis were harder than he ever would have believed. After connecting with mentors, he discovered what he truly wanted his life to be. In his second year now, he mentors first-year students facing the same struggles he did.