A Warm ICS Welcome

On Monday, September 23, 2024, UC Irvine’s Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences (ICS) welcomed almost 1,300 new students, including 925 first-year and transfer undergraduate students and 368 graduate students in ICS research and professional programs.

At the new undergraduates’ orientation, Dean Marios Papaefthymiou welcomed students and congratulated them on being selected out of the more than 20,000 applicants. He shared three pieces of advice:

• Be curious, humble and bold.
• Know that you’re not alone.
• Take care of yourself.

First, Dean Marios encouraged students to explore the many offerings in ICS and across the broader campus, including student organizations, experiential learning opportunities, and the upcoming ICS Industry Showcase event. He advised them to stay humble and to use the skills and knowledge gained in ICS to make the world a better place. And he advised students to be bold in their approach. “From day one, don’t under-appreciate what you can do!”

Second, he acknowledged that ICS would challenge students and at times could feel overwhelming. He reminded them that they are not alone. “Faculty is here to help, as well as staff in a variety of offices, including Undergraduate Advising, Graduate Advising, Outreach, Access and Inclusion, External Relations and Division of Career Pathways,” he said. “We’re not in this business if we don’t care for our students.”

In his third and final piece of advice, Dean Marios stressed the connection between physical and mental well-being. “Eat, sleep and exercise — I’m not kidding,” he said. “Make sure you take care of yourselves for the next four years.” (Students can also learn more about UCI’s student wellness and health promotion.)

Finally, Dean Marios announced that all incoming ICS students, in both undergraduate and graduate programs, will receive a free hoodie as a welcome gift from ICS. Students should check their UCI email for details.

Dean Marios concluded by again extending a warm welcome to all new ICS students. “It’s fantastic to have you here!”

UCI was recently ranked 9th among the nation’s public universities — its 10th consecutive year in the top 10. It was also ranked No. 9 overall for social mobility. “We are all very pleased that U.S. News & World Report has once again recognized the distinguished excellence of our teaching, research and public service,” said UC Irvine Chancellor Howard Gillman. “Being in the top 10 is especially gratifying in light of our commitment to inclusive excellence and educating our state’s best and most talented students regardless of their financial circumstances.”