Start Strong is a summer program designed to help incoming freshmen begin college with the confidence and resources to excel. This program will help you build the foundation for your academic career while connecting you to our Warrior community.
What to Expect
- An experienced Stanislaus State peer mentor to guide you through the college transition this summer
- Connection to fellow incoming Warriors
- Guest speakers from the University
- Tools to plan your academic pathway and graduation in four years
- Continued support as you start your first semester
Calendar
| Date | Event | Zoom |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, July 21 at 1 p.m. | Financial Aid and Retention Understand the relationship between grades and aid. |
Speaker Series Zoom |
| Thursday, July 22 | Meet with your small group | |
| Wednesday, July 28 at 1 p.m. | Enrollment Services Understand academic milestones and your pathway to graduating in four years. |
Speaker Series Zoom |
| Thursday, July 29 | Meet with your small group | |
| Wednesday, August 4 at 1 p.m. | Career and Professional Development Center | Speaker Series Zoom |
| Thursday, August 5 | Meet with your small group | |
| Wednesday, August 11 at 1 p.m. | Library/Tutoring Center Students will identify academic support services. |
Speaker Series Zoom |
| Thursday, August 12 | Meet with your small group | |
| Wednesday, August 18 at 1 p.m. | Counseling and Psychological Services, Basic Needs and Health and Education Recognize the importance of overall well-being. |
Speaker Series Zoom |
| Thursday, August 19 | Meet with your small group | |
| Wednesday, August 25 at 1 p.m. | Campus tour, clubs and organizations, Warrior Cross Cultural Center and first-generation resources Understand the importance of getting involved/sense of belonging |
Meet Your Peer Mentors
Victor Avalos
Hometown
Stockton
Major
Sociology with a focus in Social Justice and Pre-Law
- Why did you choose Stanislaus State?
I chose Stan State because diversity is very important to me and it's one of the few Hispanic Serving Institutes in the area. - What is a fun fact about you?
A fun fact about me is that I love animals. I currently have a 4-year-old Pomeranian/chihuahua mix named Navi and a 4-year-old red ear slider turtle named Lechuga (Lechuga is Spanish for Lettuce). - What piece of advice would you give an incoming freshman?
A piece of advice that I would give to incoming freshman and transfer students is to continue to push through virtual learning despite how difficult or disconnected it may feel at times and to try and make connections with your peers. I transferred into the university in the middle of the pandemic, and I have only visited the campus once and that was when I took a campus tour long before deciding to enroll. It was difficult at first but as time went on, I was able to make connections virtually and met some amazing people along the way. Remember, you are not alone!
Obed Meraz
Hometown
Turlock
Major
Biological Sciences
- Why did you choose Stanislaus State?
Stanislaus state was close to home. - What is a fun fact about you?
A fun fact about me is that I like to practice pixel art in my spare time. - What is your favorite restaurant/fast food in Turlock?
My favorite food place in Turlock is Samurai Sushi. I love their touchdown roll and fried rice. - What is your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite spot on campus is the Innovation Center. - What piece of advice would you give an incoming freshman?
I would tell them not to be afraid to explore any opportunities that they come across on campus.
Arianna Carlos
Hometown
Stockton
Major
Biological Sciences
- Why did you choose Stanislaus State?
I chose Stan State because it was close to home and I really loved that it is a smaller university. - What is a fun fact about you?
A fun fact about me is I love making jewelry! - What is your favorite restaurant/fast food in Turlock?
My favorite place to eat is the Taco Shop right by campus. They have the best tortas. - What is your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite spot on campus is the Student Center. - What piece of advice would you give an incoming freshman?
Your mental health is important too, so prioritize taking some breaks. Always celebrate your successes and hardwork!
Angie Maghinay
(She/her/hers) or (They/Them/Their)
Hometown
Modesto
Major
Philosophy Grad program: counseling education
- Why did you choose Stanislaus State?
I chose Stanislaus State because it was close to home and had a beautiful campus. - What is a fun fact about you?
I love to sing! - What is your favorite restaurant/fast food in Turlock?
Quickley’s! I love boba. - What is your favorite spot on campus?
I love to sit over by the music department by the water. - What piece of advice would you give an incoming freshman?
It’s okay to be scared, it’s okay to be nervous. You got this, take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. You won’t regret it.
Updated: July 20, 2021