Return to Psychology & Cognitive Science
Our Peer Advisors are available for drop-in advising and over email to provide one-on-one advising for students. All Peer Advisors are trained to answer general questions regarding the Cognitive Science and Psychology undergraduate majors. You can find the Drop-In Advising schedule on the Undergraduate Advising webpage.
Peer advisors are trained to assist with: personal academic plans, graduation checks, general questions about the majors, major declaration questions, and much more! For questions, please email psypeer@ucsc.edu!
Hi! My name is Erin (she/her), and I am a fourth-year Psychology and Critical Race & Ethnic Studies double major, affiliated with Oakes College.
"How long have you been at UCSC? If you are a transfer student, which school(s) did you attend prior?"
I have been attending UCSC since Fall 2022.
"Why did you want to become a Peer Advisor?"
I had an amazing high school advisor who got me interested in academic counseling. Then as a first year, I was paired with a peer mentor through the Oakes College Mentoring program. Having someone who understood my experience was hugely influential in easing my transition to college. Ultimately, I wanted to pay forward the compassion I received from these wonderful mentors by supporting other UCSC students on their college journeys!
"Outside of your studies, what do you do for fun or to find balance?"
When I have free time, I love to read, listen to music, watch TV shows/movies, and spend time with friends! I also enjoy running (very slowly!) and hiking.
"Is there an opportunity you've taken advantage of while at UCSC you recommend? (i.e. study abroad, research lab work, clubs or organization involvement?)"
I have been singing with UCSC's Concert Choir for the past year, and I love it! UCSC offers several music classes which students can take for credit/to fill GEs. They're a great way to be creative, meet other students, and interact with community members. =D
Hello! My name is Katherine, I am a fourth year general psychology student!
"How long have you been at UCSC? If you are a transfer student, which school(s) did you attend prior?"
I have been at UCSC for two years now, as I transferred in from Fresno City College.
"Why did you want to become a Peer Advisor?"
While I was in community college, I loved helping my friends (and myself) figure out which classes they needed to take in order to finish their AA.
"Outside of your studies, what do you do for fun or to find balance?"
I love to watch various movies and TV shows, and I also love to read.
"Is there an opportunity you've taken advantage of while at UCSC you recommend? (i.e. study abroad, research lab work, clubs or organization involvement?)"
Definitely taking advantage of the psychology field study program is something that I would recommend for psychology students as it is such a great opportunity to gain experience in the field.
My name is Lilianah Barton (they/her), I am a fourth year RCC affiliate majoring in Psychology and Sociology.
"How long have you been at UCSC? If you are a transfer student, which school(s) did you attend prior?"
I have been here since my freshman year.
"Why did you want to become a Peer Advisor?"
I wanted to become a Peer Advisor because I think the program is an amazing way for students to ask questions and get help from their peers, rather than administration (which can be intimidating).
"Outside of your studies, what do you do for fun or to find balance?"
I put on local concerts around the Santa Cruz and Los Angeles area, make jewelry, and play my bass.
"Is there an opportunity you've taken advantage of while at UCSC you recommend? (i.e. study abroad, research lab work, clubs or organization involvement?)"
I started my own organization, Echosystem Events, which has been an amazing opportunity to delve into the music scene, meet new people, and explore a wide range of interests.
Hi! My name is Lulu and I use she/her pronouns. I am a third year Intensive Psychology major, and I am affiliated with Stevenson College!
"How long have you been at UCSC? If you are a transfer student, which school(s) did you attend prior?"
I have been at UCSC since 2022, which was my first year in college.
"Why did you want to become a Peer Advisor?"
Becoming a peer advisor was an important way for me to provide resources and create community with other students on campus. I think that everyone should feel supported by those around them!
"Outside of your studies, what do you do for fun or to find balance?"
I love to go to the beach and spend time outdoors in nature. When I am not studying, I am usually at the beach!
"Is there an opportunity you've taken advantage of while at UCSC you recommend? (i.e. study abroad, research lab work, clubs or organization involvement?)"
I am involved with UCSC's academic outreach programs, specifically the Educational Partnership Center. Educating children in underserved communities about California's University systems (CSU & UC) makes them more prepared to succeed in higher education environments.
Hiii! My name is Verenice (she/they/ella) and I am a 4th year Intensive Psychology and Sociology double major and I am affiliated with Oakes!
"How long have you been at UCSC? If you are a transfer student, which school(s) did you attend prior?"
I have been here at UCSC all 4 years since Fall 2022.
"Why did you want to become a Peer Advisor?"
I wanted to become a Peer Advisor as I love being able to help students on campus find all the resources they need in order them to feel like they belong on campus. I also have enjoyed being able to create academic planners and do check-ins. Using advising services has benefited me on my academic journey and I want to do the same!
"Outside of your studies, what do you do for fun or to find balance?"
I really enjoy cooking, going out to eat, watching Youtube videos or shows/movies, and going out to explore the city when I can! I really enjoy downtown and Capitola whenever I get the chance to have free time and especially for a good sweet treat after a long week.
"Is there an opportunity you've taken advantage of while at UCSC you recommend? (i.e. study abroad, research lab work, clubs or organization involvement?)"
Personally I have enjoyed being involved with Greek Life (I am an ELLA) and have heard many great things of different organizations on campus including Greek orgs. I would 100% recommend exploring all the potential options available on campus to find and build a sense of community as well as network with any organization. Becoming involved with campus organizations has many benefits and it can be very rewarding, especially as a first year!