Hi Bruins! My name is Camille, and I’m a second-year student pursuing Public Affairs and Communications at UCLA. I’m from Berkeley, CA, and am excited to share my college journey and to introduce you all to the social and diverse student life here on campus! At UCLA, there are countless opportunities for every individual to discover, including new passions and involvements. Within the past two years, my favorite experiences have come from trying new things, meeting new people, and stepping outside of my comfort zone. As exciting and overwhelming as the transition to college can be, these years will be some of the most transformative and eye-opening times of your life, and I recommend you take advantage of every moment of it!

At UCLA, I truly believe there is a community for each and every person. With over 1,000+ student clubs and organizations, there are many social, professional, philanthropic, and fun clubs to join. When I was first considering college, one of the biggest aspects that drew me to UCLA was the diverse student life and social environment. Here, I’ve been able to join extracurriculars and communities, which have both furthered my interests from high school, while also allowing me to take part in new activities I have never tried before!

One of the first communities I joined at UCLA that has made a meaningful impact on my college experience is the Pilipino Recruitment and Enrichment Program (PREP). Before even committing to UCLA, I was first introduced to the organization by attending Kindred and Purpose Weekend for Admits (KaPWA), which is a 3-day, 2-night stay-over event hosted by PREP during Bruin Admit Weekend. There, I was able to first experience the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere UCLA students foster, tour the campus, make some of my first college friends, and find belonging in a community that makes me feel at home. Today, it feels full circle to be coordinating KaPWA– the same overnight event that shaped my decision to attend UCLA. Through working alongside a dedicated team to plan KaPWA 2026, I hope to create that same experience for students as they make one of the biggest decisions in their lives.

Another student organization I am involved in is the Bruin Ambassador Program with UCLA Undergraduate Admission! Through Bruin Ambassadors, I represent UCLA alongside a team of fellow undergraduate students. We attend and present at college fairs, high schools, and recruitment events, sharing insights on the UC application process, higher education, and life at UCLA. As a Bruin Ambassador, I love sharing my college experiences, helping students gain an initial understanding of the importance of higher education, and motivating students to pursue their future goals.

Lastly, I am also involved in UCLA Athletics! Since I was young, I grew up watching and playing sports, and knew I wanted to be involved in a school atmosphere with an undeniable school spirit and a thriving sports culture. Little did I know my passion would transcend into becoming a Marketing Intern for UCLA Athletics, along with continuing my passion for playing volleyball and tennis through open gyms, intramural games, and participating in programs through UCLA recreation. As a UCLA Athletics Marketing Intern, I assist in the organization of halftime fan contests, designing promotional graphics, and work behind the scenes to drive engagement and create memorable experiences for UCLA fans of all ages!

While you may be wondering how to first get involved, I want to recognize that I discovered these opportunities by speaking with others and by saying yes. Apart from these involvements, during my first year, I dedicated time to attending many events hosted by UCLA and student organizations! From First Thursdays to Volunteer Day, student performances, networking events, athletic competitions, and activities on the Hill, there will always be something to explore!

And if there’s anything you take away from my blog, I want it to be some of the most valuable life lessons I’ve learned and implemented during my time here! These lessons have changed my perspective on life and have led me to a fulfilling time at UCLA.

• Say “hi!” As simple as this seems, saying “hi” and introducing yourself can go a long way. And maintaining that connection, whether it’s passing someone on the way to class, attending a new club, or sitting next to someone you’ve never met before– saying “hi” is the best way to build connections and learn from those around you. Most likely, you will see that person again, and establishing a connection early on may open you up to new opportunities. Just start by reaching out and saying “hi!” Who knows? They’re probably thinking the same thing as you.
• Say “yes!” Stepping outside of your comfort zone can lead to new places and meeting people you may have never connected with otherwise. College will provide you with some of the most memorable days of your life, and sometimes you may have to make sacrifices, including late nights studying, or compromises, like getting work done earlier in the day to spend time with friends later. Have fun doing things with friends, but also don’t be afraid to do some things alone– it’s the best way to grow!
• Everyone has their own path. In college, it may feel easy to compare yourself to others, especially amongst UCLA’s large student life with hundreds of clubs and opportunities. Remember, everyone has their own unique path, and everything happens for a reason! Rejection is redirection, and no matter what, trust that you will end up in a space you find belonging in. Be proactive, apply, apply, apply, and opportunities will land!

New Bruins, I am cheering you on for this next exciting chapter in your life! Although UCLA is a large place, there are many ways to make life on campus feel like home by involving yourself in communities you are excited about and surrounding yourself with people who encourage you to be your best self. Enjoy the ups and downs, take advantage of any and all opportunities, and most importantly stay true to your passions and be open-minded to experiencing new ones!

With Bruin pride and love,

Camille