Welcome!

Consider this a real invitation to check out the virtual world of Student Affairs at the University of California, Irvine.

More and more we have become accustomed to witnessing the world through the eyes of the Internet, not always aware that these images are but reflections, snapshots taken from a limited perspective. But what we see on our computer screens, the shadows of life, can inspire us to discover the real world behind the veil of technology. It is no different for those of us here at UCI.

We cannot hope to bring you all of the diversity and dynamic interactions of our University community - or to represent the life of our campus in all of its dimensions. But we hope to inspire you to take a closer look at UC Irvine - at the breadth and the depth of our academic programs, cultural events, extracurricular initiatives, amenities, and many other opportunities for a well-rounded college education.

Just as the Web has become a bridge to a future without boundaries and borders, so does UCI Student Affairs aspire to connect students to their own futures, by assisting them in making the transition from classroom to civic community. We believe that it is not just the academic stature of a campus that counts - it is the value of the entire collegiate experience, from matriculation to graduation, that matters. And the more enriched our students are when they graduate, the more opportunities they will have, and the greater their social contribution will be - not to mention their own sense of fulfillment. As you will see, browsing through the pages of our site, Student Affairs is involved in the educational process from outreach and admissions to commencement and alumni participation. In addition to the many services we provide on campus, including housing, financial aid, the bookstore, and the ever-important food service, we also offer comprehensive programs in leadership development, cultural exchange, entertainment, and civic engagement through volunteerism.

Throughout the first decade of the 21st century, UCI will grow tremendously, and we are excited about the opportunities this growth will bring. For those of you who are currently on campus as students, staff, or faculty, I hope you will continue to take full advantage of what our campus has to offer. For those of you who may be considering a UCI education, I encourage you to check into our website often, and then check out the real world of UC Irvine by visiting our campus - in all of its exciting dimensions.

Manuel N. Gómez, Ph.D.
Vice Chancellor
Student Affairs