Welcome to UCSB, and to Endless Academic Opportunities

by Alan J. Wyner
Dean of Undergraduate Studies

Welcome to UCSB and the start of fall quarter. You have joined us at an exciting time for the campus. UCSB is a world-class research university with a faculty that is conducting research at the cutting edge of knowledge. One of the most important measures of a university's strength, however, is the quality of its student body. Our students rate among the top in the nation, and the new freshman class is a good example. You are now an important part of this environment, and your academic opportunities are endless.

I hope your summer was filled with productive activities, fun, and a sense of growing anticipation. I remember the mix of excitement and apprehension that I felt as I set out for college each fall during my undergraduate years.

Any apprehension you feel could stem from a feeling of uncertainty about what lies ahead for you. For those of you who are undeclared, uncertainty about your choice of major may be troubling. It's true that being undeclared inevitably means uncertainty, but that's okay, because the flip side of uncertainty is opportunity.

The largest single group of incoming freshman students is the "undeclared" group. In fact, almost 40 percent of this fall's freshman class fall into this category. Another interesting fact is that most of the students who are entering UCSB with a declared major will change that major at some point. So the process of choosing a major is very similar among all UCSB students.

To some extent your academic success hinges on how and when you make the final choice of a major. Whether you have already declared or not, as you plan your schedule for the next few quarters, be sure to enroll in a wide array of general education courses so you can experience the intellectual styles and challenges of various disciplines. And as you take courses this year, make a conscious effort to ask yourself periodically if a given course is sparking a special interest in you - one that could evolve into your final chosen major. You will learn the most and do your best in courses that are of inherent interest to you. Choose a major based upon what interests you most, and career choices will follow.

But don't forget - you must choose. It won't just happen. Be an active learner - and accept responsibility for your intellectual growth. The university will assume you have done so. Get yourself fully engaged in your courses. Learn about academic requirements, explore possible majors, and plan a curriculum that leads to a degree in four years. A final thought I would like to share - please learn to be comfortable seeking advice. Your professors and teaching assistants, as well as the academic advisors on campus, are ready to help.

Have a great academic year!