In the 2024-25 academic year, we launched the INSPIRE program and welcomed our first cohort of first-year engineering majors.  After completing the two-quarter program, here is what some of the participating first-year students had to say about INSPIRE:

"The INSPIRE program pushed me to become a better and more confident version of myself. It opened my eyes to the many opportunities available around me, and taught me how to advocate for myself. I also learned the importance of networking and building meaningful connections."

- Anonymous

"The INSPIRE program has helped me learn how to stay on top of my work in college, form valuable connections, and use the resources available to me. From the guest speakers, I have learned what a career in engineering would look like and the variety of ways to get there. Ultimately, I have learned how to make the most of the college experience."

-Joseph S.

"The INSPIRE program was truly a life changing experience. I was able to connect with a lot of people who shared similar goals and interests."

- Daisy A.

"INSPIRE really helped me overcome so many struggles in my first year. It has given me such a powerful professional network, healthy academic habits, and amazing advice from guest speakers. After my experience in INSPIRE I am confident that I will be able to stay in Computer Science and complete my degree!"

-  Joaquin D.

"This program allowed me to explore so many opportunities at UCSB that I didn't know existed. Everyone in the program is there to support you and is personally invested in your success."

- Anonymous

"My INSPIRE peer mentors where great role models that gave me priceless advice to navigate freshman year."

- Diego L. S.

"This seminar taught me the fundamentals of grit, achievement, and success, applicable to any part of life, not just college."

- Leifeng C.

"INSPIRE has taught me skills to succeed in college."

- Aylin L.

"Signing up for this program, I didn't know what to expect. Opening up opportunities, unveiling campus resources, and introducing INSPIREing guest speakers, this program gave me the tools to make turns on my road, to take control of my time here at UCSB."

- Hao G.

"The guest speakers in the INSPIRE program were amazing. Quantum researchers, Amazon, Google, and experts of all kinds! Life changing experience! "

-Joaquin D.