Dear New Student,

Welcome to the University of California, Riverside (UCR). We are happy to have you join the UCR community and look forward to working with you throughout your college career. Your decision to attend UCR is an important one, and you are to be congratulated for choosing a university that will challenge you academically and promote personal discovery. In an effort to help you acclimate to your new environment, our Bear Facts Orientation Program is mandatory for all incoming first-year students. During this Orientation, you will have the opportunity to enroll in your fall classes, become familiar with the many departments that will assist you during your transition, and meet new students in your major and college. University staff, faculty, and continuing students will be available to answer any questions you may have. Orientation is designed to be a wonderful learning experience, as well as an enjoyable time. The Bear Facts Orientation program has proven to be extremely beneficial to our new students and research has shown that after attending orientation, students tend to achieve a higher grade point average during their first year. We look forward to meeting you and your family this summer.

Sincerely,
James W. Sandoval
Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs