Our program understands the need for academic counseling and recognizes the challenges and responsibilities that first-generation, low-income, underrepresented, and undocumented students experience at Cal.
Our staff practices a holistic, multicultural, and solution-focused approach to academic counseling that helps deliver individualized services for each student. We help students develop the unique gifts and talents they each bring to the university, while empowering them to achieve.
Our program helps students balance their personal responsibilities with the academic demands of UC Berkeley. Students receive support transitioning to the university, selecting courses, choosing a major, understanding requirements, exploring career options, and preparing for life after Cal. We also assist students in managing the various extenuating circumstances and unexpected crises that may impact their lives, while ensuring progress toward graduation. Undergraduates benefit from our various programs, services, and extensive campus referral network.
The Undocumented Student Program is also committed to empowering students with a sense of belonging and ownership of the university. This includes helping students engage in enrichment opportunities, develop a sense of shared learning and community, and pursue opportunities for personal growth.
USP Peer Academic Counselors (PACs) are current undergraduates who serve as student-to-student advisors. PACs can support students with questions about classes and class schedules, general financial aid, finding/connecting to resources, and building community on campus.
PACs are available for 30-minute appointments during the fall and spring semesters.
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Madeleine Villanueva (she/her)Assistant Directormadeleiv@berkeley.eduMeet with Madeleine |