Fall Student Welcome
La Bienvenida
For more than two decades, El Centro has hosted La Bienvenida—our signature fall welcome event designed to introduce and connect new and continuing students to El Centro, meet peers and a variety of Chicanx & Latiné student-led organizations, campus resources, and support services on campus. Whether you’re new to campus or looking to re-engage, La Bienvenida is an invitation to build the meaningful relationships that will support your academic journey, involvement, and social life.
This event is open too all. Free food, community building, music, and student performances are part of the evening’s fun!
What to expect at La Bienvenida
- Connect with student organizations
- Meet staff and campus resource teams
- Enjoy music, food, and a festive community atmosphere
- Learn how to get involved and thrive at UCSC
La Bienvenida 2025: Lucha, Fuerza, y Esperanza
This year, Bienvenida expands into a two-day welcome series designed to introduce and connect new and returning students with El Centro, Chicanx and Latine student organizations, and the broader UCSC community. Rooted in the theme “Lucha, Fuerza y Esperanza,” the celebration will feature
- Ritmo de Nuestras Culturas Baile on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 8:00 PM -11:00 PM at Porter Kresge Dining Hall
- Dominguero: Prosperando en Comunidad, a more intimate carne asada–style gathering on Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM at Oakes Lower Lawn.
Through music, food, storytelling, and intentional relationship-building, Bienvenida cultivates comunidad while honoring El Centro’s mission of affirming Chicanx and Latine communities. Open to all UCSC students, Bienvenida is organized by El Centro, and Porter and Kresge Colleges. RSVP for La Bienvenida 2025 events.
Student Voices: Reflections of La Bienvenida
A moment of empowerment and welcome
“Events like this have a big impact on my experience at UCSC because they affirm my identity as a Latina. It felt empowering to be surrounded by people who share my cultural background, and it was equally meaningful to see others appreciate and enjoy elements of my culture. La Bienvenida made me feel truly welcome on campus—it’s also a great way to meet new people and discover organizations that align with my interests.” – Student testimonial
Belonging to our comunidad
“Having an event like this really impacts my experience at UCSC because it makes me feel welcome and like I belong. On such a large campus with so many students, it can feel overwhelming not knowing which clubs or organizations are available. Attending events like this shows just how much people on campus care and truly want you to feel like you belong.” – Student testimonial
Discover the resources available to you
“Whenever I’m looking for a sense of community or want to connect with students who share similar experiences or get support, I know where to go and who to turn to.” – Student testimonial