Cal State Monterey Bay’s annual Open House welcomed 1,700 people to explore the campus and better understand what life is like as an Otter.
People started their day with Interim President Carlos Vargas, who gave opening remarks for all of the attendees and welcomed everyone and their supporters to campus.
Provost and Vice President Andrew Lawson highlighted upcoming capital improvements, like the Edward Taylor Science and Engineering Building and the Robert Darwin Black Box Cabaret. Lawson also shared that the new history, communications and public health degree programs will be active this following fall.
People were then able to tour different buildings such as the library, Chapman Science Academic Center, residential communities, as well as meet different campus organizations and clubs.
Who knows what Otter life is like better than current CSUMB students.
Third year Marine Science student and The Performing Otter’s Vice President Ashton Sylvester-Frost encouraged potential students to get involved with clubs. CSUMB is home to over 80 different clubs ranging from academic based clubs, to hobbies and faith based clubs.
“It’s really a great way to get out there and make friends,” said Sylvester-Frost. “It’s a great way to get yourself out of your room.”
“My advice for future Otters is to check out the affinity centers,” said fourth year ethnic and gender studies major Charisse Cailles. Cailles works with the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Center, one of six affinity centers on campus. These centers provide spaces to explore and celebrate the identity and culture of underrepresented communities.
Fourth year psychology and human development student Sonal Singh serves as the Associated Students Diversity and Inclusion senator. Singh’s advice for future otters is to apply for any AS scholarships.
“You never know when you could get one,” said Singh. Typical AS scholarships awarded include housing, parking permits and capstone research scholarships.
All current students mentioned the need for connection and to “put yourself out there,” said third year psychology student Jackie Martinez.
“There’s so many things to be a part of… I think it’s really worth it to make your time at CSUMB more fun,” said Martinez.