New to Berkeley?

If you admitted to Berkeley :

Congratulations on becoming a Golden Bear!

Here's what to expect in the next coming weeks!

Bridge's Coalition Initiative : Transfer Weekend

What is Bridges?

The bridges Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) at UC Berkeley is a coalition of seven student-initiated, student-run Recruitment and Retention Centers (RRCs) dedicated to increasing the enrollment and success of underrepresented students of color in higher education. Their mission encompasses both recruitment—encouraging prospective students to apply to and attend college—and retention—providing resources and support to ensure these students thrive academically and personally during their studies.

Each center focuses on the unique needs of its community, offering tailored programs and services to support students throughout their educational journey. Collectively, bridges MRC provides a range of resources, including academic support, mentorship, cultural events, and wellness initiatives, all aimed at fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for students of color.

What is Transfer Weekend?

UC Berkeley's Transfer Weekend is an event designed to welcome and support newly admitted transfer students as they transition into the university community. Organized by various student groups and departments, including the bridges Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) and the Pilipinx Academic Student Services (PASS), the event typically takes place over a weekend some time after UC Berkeley admissions have been released.

During Transfer Weekend, participants engage in a variety of activities aimed at familiarizing them with campus resources, academic opportunities, and the vibrant student life at UC Berkeley. These activities often include campus tours, informational sessions, workshops, and social events, all designed to help transfer students integrate smoothly into the university environment.

It is not a guarantee you will be selected to attend Transfer Weekend. Keep a look out for the attendee application at @ucbpass on Instagram!

Golden Bear Advising

Golden Bear Advising (GBA) is an online academic advising program designed to help incoming first-year and transfer students at UC Berkeley plan their courses and prepare for their first semester. As part of the Golden Bear Experience, GBA provides students with personalized guidance on course selection, major requirements, and university policies. Through a series of online modules and advising interactions, students learn how to navigate CalCentral, use academic planning tools, and understand degree requirements.

Typically available during the summer, Golden Bear Advising is a required step before students can enroll in classes. It ensures that new students make informed academic decisions and connect with college advisors who can assist them with their transition. By completing this program, students gain a strong foundation in Berkeley’s academic expectations and are better prepared for their first semester.

Golden Bear Prep Online Course

Golden Bear Prep is an online course designed to help incoming first-year and transfer students transition smoothly to UC Berkeley. As a required part of the Golden Bear Orientation (GBO) program, the self-paced course introduces students to key academic resources, university policies, and campus life before they arrive. It covers essential topics such as academic expectations, student support services, and strategies for success. By completing this module, students gain a better understanding of Berkeley’s academic culture and prepare themselves for their first semester.

Typically available during the summer before the fall semester, Golden Bear Prep is mandatory for all incoming students and must be completed before attending in-person orientation events. The university provides students with access details and deadlines through their Berkeley email and CalCentral portal. The course also offers guidance on course enrollment, academic planning, and community expectations, ensuring that students start their Berkeley journey with confidence.

Golden Bear Orientation

Golden Bear Orientation (GBO) is UC Berkeley’s mandatory, multi-day program designed to welcome and integrate incoming first-year and transfer students into the campus community. Taking place just before the start of the fall semester, GBO provides students with essential information about academic life, campus resources, student organizations, and Berkeley’s culture. Through a mix of workshops, social events, and small group activities, students connect with peers, meet faculty and staff, and explore their new environment.

In addition to academic preparation, GBO emphasizes student well-being, diversity, and campus safety, ensuring that new students feel supported as they transition to college life. Each student is placed in a small group led by trained Orientation Leaders, who help guide them through the program and answer any questions. By the end of GBO, students gain a strong sense of community, confidence in navigating campus resources, and a better understanding of what it means to be a Golden Bear.