Illustration by Julie Phan, Class of 2025
Today
The Charm of the Amalfi Coast
Wed 5/20
Italy •
Behold the splendors of the Amalfi Coast on this incredible seven-night journey. From ancient ruins to sun-swept coasts and enchanting towns, let this alluring slice of Italy seduce your senses. From your base in charming Vietri sul Mare, set off to explore Ravello, Amalfi and Positano, endearing villages perched majestically above the sea. Admire unspoiled vistas while cruising azure waters, and delve into fascinating legends at Herculaneum and Pompeii, frozen in time by the mudflows of Mount Vesuvius. Unravel history amid Paestum’s Greek temples and tuck into the region’s sensational cuisine, including olive oil and cheese tastings during a rural farm experience. Whether visiting the renowned National Archaeological Museum or discovering Old Naples, your Italian daydreams will come to life. This handcrafted, small-group journey features first-class accommodations and an extensive meal plan. Along the way, local experts share their knowledge of the region. Featuring Professor Emeritus Kathryn Norberg, Department of History
OPT Webinars for F-1 Visa Students (May 20th)
Wed 5/20 • 2:27AM - 3PM PDT
UCLA F-1 visa students, do you want to know more about off-campus employment authorization? Join us on one of our weekly OPT webinars hosted by the Dashew Center staff to learn more! Time: 2 - 3pm (Pacific Time) Zoom Meeting: https://ucla.zoom.us/j/98199114498
#Undergraduate #GraduateProfessional #Educational #PreProfessional
Python for Data Analysis and Visualization
Wed 5/20 • 9AM - 12PM PDT
Part of the UC Library Carpentry online workshop series, May 11–20. Build on the basics from Getting Started with Python and take the next step with Python for data work. This session focuses on using Pandas for data analysis and creating clear, effective visualizations for research and reporting. The session will include work with real datasets relevant to library and information contexts. Prerequisite: Attend Getting Started with Python or have equivalent experience with basic Python concepts, including variables, lists and running simple scripts. Instructor: Ryan Horne
RISE and Shine
Wed 5/20 • 11AM - 2PM PDT
RISE Center at Lu Valle Commons Basement Level
"Reset, recharge, and rise for finals. Stop by for therapy animals, lawn games, ice cream, art activities, and campus resources. Plus build your own study support kit to help you finish the quarter strong."
SPRING ENGLISH LANGUAGE CIRCLE: MAY 20
Wed 5/20 • 12PM - 1PM PDT
Are you looking for a safe and supportive space to practice your English conversation skills? Check out Dashew Center's English Language Circle (ELC)! Here you will have an opportunity to practice your English with other language learners. The circle is led by a native English speaker, who will help you become more confident in your speaking skills and who can answer your language and grammar questions. All of our ELC sessions will take place on Zoom this spring 2026. Space is limited to 20 participants per session. Participants are welcome to enjoy their lunch during these sessions. The Zoom link will be shared via email upon registering. Please email us at intlprograms@saonet.ucla.edu with any questions.
Assignments and Grading for TAs
Wed 5/20 • 2PM - 3PM PDT
How to Get Involved in Research Workshop for Transfers
Wed 5/20 • 4PM - 5PM PDT RSVP
CAC Peer Counselors present a virtual workshop about how transfers can get involved in research at UCLA. Open to both new & returning transfers.
Queer Creative Writing Space
Wed 5/20 • 4PM - 5:30PM PDT RSVP
The Queer Creative Writing Space meets bi-weekly during the academic year. This space is for writers of all backgrounds and experience levels who would like to stretch their creative writing muscles and meet other writers!
Ace and Aro Space
Wed 5/20 • 4PM - 6PM PDT
LGBTQ Campus Resource Center
The Ace and Aro Space is a weekly dialogue and affinity space wanting to build community or learn more about the asexual and/or aromantic spectrums.
2026 GLOBAL BRUINS YEAR-END CELEBRATION
Wed 5/20 • 5:30PM - 7PM PDT
De Neve Plaza Room
Global Bruins! We invite you to join this special event! Join us to celebrate all global bruins on a fun evening with light dinner, entertainment and giveaways! Whether you are an international student/scholar or have studied abroad, we would like to celebrate you and the class of 2026. Register for this event here: Registration Form (space is limited) When? Wednesday, May 20th at 5:30pm @ De Neve Plaza Room. We are excited to celebrate you in May!
Mixed Alumni Board Info Session
Wed 5/20 • 7PM PDT
Zoom
"Want to build your leadership skills, grow your network, and make a difference in the Mixed Bruin community? Join the UCLA Mixed Alumni Association Board! We will be hosting a board Info Session via Zoom on Wednesday, May 20 at 7:00 p.m. Come to learn more about our Association, our open positions, and the board elections process. Our current board will be available to answer your questions. We look forward to seeing you there!"
Tomorrow
Neurodiversity Empowerment Hour
Thu 5/21 • 10AM - 11AM PDT
RISE Center at Lu Valle Commons Basement Level
Neurodiversity Empowerment Hour is a weekly virtual drop-in space where students can join a brief 10–15 minute session to receive support, learn about helpful campus resources, and explore ways to build skills for wellbeing and success.
Reflect with RISE: Grounding Space
Thu 5/21 • 11AM - 12PM PDT
RISE Center at Lu Valle Commons Basement Level
Join us for a beginner friendly guided meditation with a calming sound bath. Take some time to breathe, meet community, and practice mindfulness, spirituality, and stillness.
Health & Wellbeing Drop-ins
Thu 5/21 • 11AM - 1PM PDT
RISE Center at Lu Valle Commons Basement Level
Feel free to drop by and chat with RISE Health and Wellbeing Coordinator! Whether you want to discuss campus mental health resources, get connected to CAPS, manage academic stress, or just need someone to talk to, we're here for you.
UCLA Diabetes Prevention Program - May 2026 Cohort
Thu 5/21 • 12PM - 1PM PDT RSVP
The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is offered for UCLA staff, faculty, students, and retirees. UCLA DPP follows the guidelines for National Diabetes Prevention Programs, using a CDC approved curriculum, trained lifestyle coaches, and group support over the course of a year. UCLA DPP provides education, encouragement, and the tools necessary to help individuals reach their health goals. The hour-long classes are held once a week for the first three months, biweekly for month four, and monthly for months five through twelve. Interested? Fill out the intake form for the May 2026 cohort: Thursdays 12-1p, starting 5/21/26.
#GraduateProfessional #FacultyStaff #Alumni #Health #Wellness
NIH Common Form Biosketch: Are You Ready?
Thu 5/21 • 1PM - 2PM PDT RSVP
Are you prepared for the new NIH Common Form Biosketch requirements? Join this practical session to learn what’s changing and how to avoid common pitfalls before your next submission. We’ll walk through the new biosketch structure, and key updates. You’ll also learn how to navigate tools like SciENcv, MyNCBI and ORCID—and what investigators and administrators need to do now to stay compliant with NIH requirements. Instructor: Robin Faria, Director, CTSI Grants Submission Unit This workshop will be offered via Zoom. If you're registered, you'll receive the Zoom invitation information the day before the workshop.
#Undergraduate #GraduateProfessional #FacultyStaff #Educational #Research
Preparing to Teach: Bring Your Own Syllabus Peer Review Session (In-person)
Thu 5/21 • 3PM - 5PM PDT RSVP
Powell Library, Room 190
This co-working peer review session will cover syllabus design best practices. Participants will look at example syllabi, consider best practices for student-centered, inclusive, and digitally accessible design, and peer review each other’s materials. Light refreshments will be served. This session is open to all instructors, including faculty, TAs, and postdocs. Please contact instructorsupport@teaching.ucla.edu if you have any questions.
20's Talk - Dear Future Me
Thu 5/21 • 5PM - 6PM PDT
RISE Center at Lu Valle Commons Basement Level
Join us at 20's Talk—a weekly space for meaningful conversations about your 20's. Gain expert insight from special guests, form community, and enjoy free snacks!
BUS Game Night Extravaganza
Thu 5/21 • 5PM - 7PM PDT RSVP
Bruin Resource Center
Take a break and unwind with Bruin Underground Scholars at a cozy night filled with games and great company. Come play games, or simply relax and connect with other scholars in a welcoming space. Snacks and games will be provided. Bring your best vibes and come hang out!
#Undergraduate #GraduateProfessional #FacultyStaff #Social #Community
Dissertation 101 - ONLINE (for graduate and professional students)
Thu 5/21 • 5:15PM - 6:15PM PDT RSVP
This workshop will give an overview of the dissertation requirement in terms of structure, process, and role in one's career trajectory. The workshop will address the dissertation from multiple angles to deepen attendees' understanding of decisions and choices around the planning and execution of the dissertation.
UCLA Affordability Workshop (Spanish Session)
Thu 5/21 • 6PM - 7PM PDT RSVP
(Sesión en Español!) Únase a Ayuda Financiera y Becas de UCLA para un taller interactivo diseñado para ayudar a los estudiantes recién admitidos y a sus familias a comprender mejor su oferta de ayuda financiera y el costo neto estimado de asistencia. Durante este taller práctico de una hora, un experto en ayuda financiera de UCLA le guiará a través de las partes clave de su Carta de Ayuda Financiera, explicará los diferentes tipos de asistencia financiera ofrecidos y le enseñará cómo calcular de forma más precisa cuánto podría costarle a su familia asistir a UCLA después de tomar en cuenta subvenciones, becas y otros apoyos.
Friday May 22
Preparing to Teach: Giving Feedback (Online)
Fri 5/22 • 10AM - 11AM PDT RSVP
Please join us for a foundational workshop on how to give effective feedback to students. Whether you’re leading a large lecture course or a small discussion section, this session will prepare you with equity-minded practices to support students in developing a growth-mindset and feedback literacy, as well as foster a classroom culture where feedback is valued. This Zoom session is open to all instructors, including faculty, TAs, and postdocs. Please contact instructorsupport@teaching.ucla.edu if you have any questions.
The Creative Reset
Fri 5/22 • 11AM - 12PM PDT
RISE Center at Lu Valle Commons Basement Level
Looking for a calm and creative way to end your week? Grab a cup of tea and join Creative Reset, a weekly hour of creative wellness, to slow down, enjoy arts and crafts, and recharge before the weekend. Each week may include a guided art or craft activity, open time to create, journal, draw, or color at your own pace, and occasional reflective writing prompts to spark creativity and support your wellness. No experience is needed, and all UCLA students are welcome!
Film Friday
Fri 5/22 • 12PM - 2PM PDT
LGBTQ Campus Resource Center
Join the UCLA LGBTQ CRC every Friday at noon to watch queer films and TV! Snacks and art supplies will be provided. No RSVP required!
#Undergraduate #GraduateProfessional #FacultyStaff #Arts #MovieFilm
Health & Wellbeing Drop-ins
Fri 5/22 • 1PM - 3PM PDT
RISE Center at Lu Valle Commons Basement Level
Feel free to drop by and chat with RISE Health and Wellbeing Coordinator! Whether you want to discuss campus mental health resources, get connected to CAPS, manage academic stress, or just need someone to talk to, we're here for you.
Mindful Writing Retreat - ONLINE (for graduate and professional students)
Fri 5/22 • 1:30PM - 4PM PDT RSVP
The mindful writing retreat will integrate simple techniques from mindfulness to support the writing process and cultivate an approach to writing that fosters balance, self-care, and well-being. Please bring a current writing project because much of the retreat time will be allocated for writing. All sessions will be remotely conducted via Zoom.
Queer Fandom Fanatics
Fri 5/22 • 2PM - 3PM PDT RSVP
LGBTQ Campus Resource Center
Come geek out with others about all things pop culture through a queer lens!
Undergraduate Research Week Awards Ceremony
Fri 5/22 • 2PM - 3:30PM PDT
Join us for the virtual Undergraduate Research Week Awards Ceremony, where we will celebrate the close of Undergraduate Research Week and honor winners of the Dean’s Prize and Faculty Mentor Award! Join Us on Zoom https://ucla.in/4rpBgS9
QTBIPOC Space
Fri 5/22 • 3:30PM - 4:30PM PDT RSVP
LGBTQ Campus Resource Center
The QTBIPOC Space is an intentional space for all folks of different and similar lived experiences to build community, decompress, and practice collective care.
The Neuro-Edge: A Strengths-Based Approach to ADHD and Autism
Fri 5/22 • 5:30PM - 7:30PM PDT RSVP
UAS (Family Housing), Sawtelle
We're excited to bring to you a workshop on strength-based parenting workshop for ADHD and Autism facilitated by Meraki. Dinner provided, RSVP required Meraki's mission is to restore dignity to individuals with diverse needs -including those navigating mental health challenges, social disadvantages, and special needs.
Chicago Network: UCLA Women's Softball Super Regional Game Watch
Fri 5/22 • 6PM PDT
Doghaus Biergarten • Chicago IL
Cheer on the UCLA Women's Softball team with local Bruins as they take on UCF! Doghaus will televise all UCLA games thru the weekend as we march to a championship.
Saturday May 23
Board Game Bar Social with UCLA Mixed Alumni Association
Sat 5/23 • 5PM PDT
Guildhall - Burbank • Burbank
Join us! The UCLA Mixed Alumni Association is organizing a social event at Guildhall in Burbank, where alums can meet and chat with other Mixed Alumni in the area.
Sunday May 24
San Fernando Valley: Wellness Walk
Sun 5/24 • 9AM PDT
Greenbriar Trailhead • Los Angeles CA
Please join our third wellness walk of the year! We will be walking the Greenbriar Trail in Topanga Canyon. It is a 3 mile out and back trail which means you can walk as much or as little as you want. Wear your Bruin gear and don't forget your water. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/greenbriar-trail 
Bruin Family Socials – Petaluma, CA
Sun 5/24 • 12PM PDT
Lombardi's | Gourmet Deli & BBQ • Petaluma CA
Bruin Family Socials are events that bring UCLA to neighborhoods around the world. Providing an opportunity for attendees to engage with one another on a regional level, Bruin Family Socials foster connections and relationships within the greater Bruin community. Historically, Bruin Family Socials have taken place over the course of one weekend each year. During spring 2023, these events transitioned to a year-round model that accommodates a variety of activities and locations, ultimately allowing for added flexibility and more opportunities to build community than ever before. We hope you will join us at an event near you!
Monday May 25
Azores: An Island Adventure with a Stay in Lisbon
Mon 5/25
Portugal •
Portugal awaits on this unforgettable 11-night adventure to Lisbon and the enigmatic Azores Islands! Stay for two nights in Lisbon and see the city highlights. Then, fly to the remote, pristine Azores archipelago to witness breathtaking vistas and natural wonders on four volcanic islands. Admire Terceira’s colonial architecture, visit traditional villages and explore a volcanic lava tube. On Faial, visit the Capelinhos volcano interpretation center and the Caldeira Velha nature reserve, and admire the majestic Pico Mountain. Ferry over to Pico one day to encounter vineyards growing in lava rock and visit the Whalers Museum. In São Miguel, thrill to a whale-watching excursion, visit Laga do Fogo’s magnificent crater, take a jeep to witness the crater lake-of-two-colors and Caldeira Velha’s warm iron waterfall. Also, enjoy a tea factory tour and tasting, stroll magical botanical gardens and delight in a folklore performance. Plus, savor stew cooked in hot lava rock and participate in an experiential farmhouse dinner. This active small-group program features experienced guides and lecturers, first-class hotels and a generous meal plan.
Office Closed in Observance of Memorial Day Holiday
Mon 5/25
A129 Murphy Hall
UCLA Financial Aid & Scholarships will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026, in Observance of the Memorial Day holiday. We will resume regular operating hours on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
Sicily, Malta & Amalfi Coast
Mon 5/25
Italy •
Revel in magnificent scenic beauty and enthralling history on this exclusively chartered, 7-night cruise featuring the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, legendary sites in Sicily, and the baroque grandeur of Valletta, Malta’s capital. During your deluxe voyage, appreciate the remarkable archaeological ruins of Pompeii and Syracuse and enjoy a choice of tours in Palermo that showcase glittering Byzantine mosaics. Coastal splendor awaits as you stroll through picturesque Positano and Capri on the Amalfi Coast and take in sweeping views from Taormina’s famous Greek theater. You’ll also marvel at the stunning interior of Valletta’s 16th-century cathedral and meander through charming Ortigia, Syracuse’s island old town. Along the way, relish enticing cuisine, sample Sicilian wines in a palazzo and dig into Palermo’s tastiest street foods! As you travel, expert guides and speakers will share meaningful insights about the many cultures interwoven within this fascinating region, while a professional Travel Director will manage the logistics. To enhance your experience, add the Naples Pre-Tour extension.
Orange County Network: Where Supply Meets Demand: A UCLA Finance & Economics Mixer
Mon 5/25 • 5:30PM PDT
Hangar 24 • Irvine CA
Join OC Bruins for a finance and economics networking mixer designed for UCLA alumni whose work touches markets, capital, strategy, analysis or financial decision-making. Whether you work in banking, investment, corporate finance, financial planning, fintech, real estate finance, accounting, economics or a related field, this gathering is an opportunity to meet fellow Bruins with shared professional interests and relevant career experience. The evening will be relaxed and conversational, with no formal program, no pitch deck and no need to forecast interest rates at the door. Just good conversation, new connections and a chance to expand your professional network in a room where supply meets demand. Consider it a small investment in the relationship side of your balance sheet. Bring your perspective, your curiosity and maybe a good market observation or two. The risk is low: a relaxed evening with fellow Bruins. The potential reward: fresh insights, stronger ties and a few contacts worth adding to your long-term portfolio.
Tuesday May 26
Health & Wellbeing Drop-ins
Tue 5/26 • 11AM - 1PM PDT
RISE Center at Lu Valle Commons Basement Level
Feel free to drop by and chat with RISE Health and Wellbeing Coordinator! Whether you want to discuss campus mental health resources, get connected to CAPS, manage academic stress, or just need someone to talk to, we're here for you.
UCLA Affordability Workshop
Tue 5/26 • 12PM - 1PM PDT RSVP
Join UCLA Financial Aid & Scholarships for a one-hour interactive workshop designed to help newly admitted students and their families better understand their financial aid offer and estimated net cost of attendance. During this hands-on session, a UCLA financial aid expert will walk you through the key parts of your Bruin Financial Aid Letter, explain the different types of aid offered, and demonstrate how to calculate what attending UCLA may actually cost after grants, scholarships, and other support. Please complete the RSVP form below to join us!
Movement and Meditation
Tue 5/26 • 1:15PM - 2PM PDT
RISE Center at Lu Valle Commons Basement Level
Beginner-friendly stretching and meditation with UCLA Rec Instructor Binny. All equipment provided (yoga mats, blocks).
How to Update Your Homepage After Course Import
Tue 5/26 • 2PM - 2:30PM PDT
The Classroom – Millennial Leadership: Communication
Tue 5/26 • 5:30PM - 7PM PDT
Zoom
The Millennial Leadership course provides practical skills and builds confidence in key leadership areas, including effective delegation, managing former peers, conflict resolution, mitigating impostor syndrome, and navigating ambiguity.
TEDxUCLA 2026: Renaissance & Revival
Tue 5/26 • 6PM - 9PM PDT
UCLA Northwest Auditorium
TEDx proudly returns to UCLA, celebrating UCLA students, alumni, staff, faculty, community, and impact. Please stay tuned for further details on the event! #Educational
TEDxUCLA 2026: Renaissance & Revival
Tue 5/26 • 6PM - 9PM PDT
UCLA Northwest Auditorium
TEDx proudly returns to UCLA, celebrating UCLA students, alumni, staff, faculty, community, and impact. Please stay tuned for further details on the event!
Wednesday May 27
CPT Webinars for F-1 Visa Students
Wed 5/27 • 10AM - 11AM PDT
UCLA F-1 visa students, do you want to know more about off-campus employment authorization? Join us on one of our weekly CPT webinars hosted by the Dashew Center staff to learn more!
#Undergraduate #GraduateProfessional #Educational #PreProfessional
Website Makers Meetup
Wed 5/27 • 11AM - 12PM PDT
These meetups are for people who make websites. Join us every other week, on Wednesday at 11am, to ask any questions you may have about making websites at UCLA.
SPRING ENGLISH LANGUAGE CIRCLE: MAY 27
Wed 5/27 • 12PM - 1PM PDT
Are you looking for a safe and supportive space to practice your English conversation skills? Check out Dashew Center's English Language Circle (ELC)! Here you will have an opportunity to practice your English with other language learners. The circle is led by a native English speaker, who will help you become more confident in your speaking skills and who can answer your language and grammar questions. All of our ELC sessions will take place on Zoom this spring 2026. Space is limited to 20 participants per session. Participants are welcome to enjoy their lunch during these sessions. The Zoom link will be shared via email upon registering. Please email us at intlprograms@saonet.ucla.edu with any questions.
Data Justice Research Series: Using Sociolinguistics to Address AI Fairness by Zion Mengesha
Wed 5/27 • 12PM - 2PM PDT RSVP
3312 Murphy Hall, DataX Impact Forum
Join us for a Data Justice Research Series talk presented by Dr. Mengesha. Lunch will be provided! Description: Over the past 60 years, sociolinguists have documented variation in African Americans’ speech. This work has resulted in a large body of literature detailing the complex relations among language, gender, sexuality, race, power, and class. The development language technologies, such as automated speech recognition (ASR) and large language models, has raised new questions about dialect fairness and accessibility, which sociolinguistics is apt to address. In this talk, Zion Mengesha present three case studies for the application of sociolinguistics to artificial intelligence. Using the dialect density measure, the first study shows that all five major speech recognizers misunderstood African American speakers up to two times more than white speakers, revealing how speech technologies reproduce standard language ideologies. The second study examines the psychological and behavioral consequences of dialect discrimination using video data collected over a 2-week diary study of African Americans’ interactions with voice technology. The final study shows linguistic consequences of ASR misrecognition, examining how African Americans modify their prosody and morphosyntax in order to be better understood. She concludes with a discussion on how to apply sociolinguistic insights about African American English (AAE) to artificial intelligence to advance technological justice for speakers of African American English and other minoritized language varieties.
#Undergraduate #GraduateProfessional #FacultyStaff #Educational #Research
Health & Wellbeing Drop-ins
Wed 5/27 • 1PM - 3PM PDT
RISE Center at Lu Valle Commons Basement Level
Feel free to drop by and chat with RISE Health and Wellbeing Coordinator! Whether you want to discuss campus mental health resources, get connected to CAPS, manage academic stress, or just need someone to talk to, we're here for you.
Practice and Play with EdTech: Active Learning in Modernized Classrooms
Wed 5/27 • 3:30PM - 5PM PDT RSVP
Powell 186
In this session, participants will explore how modernized classroom spaces can engage students and support meaningful active learning. Through guided practice and reflection, attendees will examine how flexible classroom layouts and integrated technologies support pedagogical goals. Participants will engage in hands-on experiences designed to foster collaboration, deepen content processing, increase student engagement, and promote inclusive participation. Attendees will leave with practical ideas for creating dynamic, student-centered learning environments in their own courses. This session is designed for graduate students, TAs, and postdocs. All instructors are welcome to attend. What is Practice and Play with EdTech The Practice and Play with EdTech series offers instructors a hands-on opportunity to explore teaching tools and strategies with TLC staff. Each session begins with a brief overview of a tool followed by a guided exercise and time to explore and apply the tool to participants’ own course
Queer Creative Writing Space
Wed 5/27 • 4PM - 5:30PM PDT RSVP
The Queer Creative Writing Space meets bi-weekly during the academic year. This space is for writers of all backgrounds and experience levels who would like to stretch their creative writing muscles and meet other writers!
Transfer Senior Celebration
Wed 5/27 • 4PM - 5:30PM PDT
James West Alumni Center
Join us to celebrate our graduating UCLA Transfers! Stop by anytime at the event to pick up and decorate your free transfer cords, customize your grad cap, and enjoy tacos & agua frescas! The dress code is semi-formal, but if you are coming from class feel free to come as you are.
Ace and Aro Space
Wed 5/27 • 4PM - 6PM PDT
LGBTQ Campus Resource Center
The Ace and Aro Space is a weekly dialogue and affinity space wanting to build community or learn more about the asexual and/or aromantic spectrums.
Your Next Degree: Graduate School
Wed 5/27 • 5PM PDT
Zoom
Careers and academic interests often evolve over time, and many people choose to pursue graduate education after gaining experience in the workforce or further exploring their fields. Whether you are considering a master’s or PhD, in an academic or professional program, graduate school can be a powerful step toward advancing your goals, shifting career paths, or deepening your expertise. This UCLA Alumni webinar will explore what it takes to apply to graduate school across a range of disciplines. The application process can differ significantly from other advanced degrees and depends on your individual goals and motivations. You will gain an overview of the process and timeline, hear from a representative from the UCLA Division of Graduate Education, and learn how to evaluate programs such as those offered through the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. A UCLA Career Center representative will also share insights on how graduate education can help unlock future career opportunities. Whether you are actively preparing an application or just beginning to consider graduate school, this session will help clarify the process and available pathways. ### **The panel of speakers includes:** * * *  ****Johanna Arias, M.Ed.**** _**Student Affairs Officer for the Executive Master of Public Health (EMPH) Program,** **Executive Programs, Department of Health Policy & Management,** **UCLA Fielding School of Public Health**_ A higher education professional, Johanna Arias is passionate about empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders. Johanna holds a Master of Education in Educational Counseling from the USC Rossier School of Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy from the University of California, Riverside. Working closely with EMPH Program Director Dr. Isomi Miake-Lye, Johanna offers guidance to EMPH applicants and is the first point of contact for anyone with inquiries about the program or the admissions process. She works closely with EMPH faculty and students and is currently taking 1:1 meetings with prospective applicants to discuss their academic and career goals. UCLA's Executive Master of Public Health is a two-year graduate program in Health Policy and Management designed to equip working professionals with the essential knowledge, skills, and resources to navigate the complexities of the modern healthcare environment. This in-person, cohort-based program features a full-time curriculum that meets on the UCLA campus every other weekend, allowing students to balance rigorous academic training with their professional careers. With one start per year in the Fall, the program emphasizes leadership in health policy and management and provides students the opportunity to develop a practical business plan through their coursework. For the capstone project, all students conduct an applied consulting project beginning in the summer following their first academic year; working in two-person teams, students address policy development issues, management consultations, or mentored problem resolutions in coordination with sponsoring organizations or other health-related entities. Upon graduation, students earn an MPH degree and gain access to a robust and active alumni network, ensuring continued professional support and collaborative opportunities. For more information, please visit:https://www.exechpm.ucla.edu/ * * *  ****Maria José (MJ) Hidalgo Flores, M.S. (she/her/ella)**** _**Assistant Director, Undergraduate Career Education and Development**_ Maria José (MJ) is a two-time alumna of Mount Saint Mary’s University, Los Angeles, where she earned her M.S. in Counseling Psychology and B.A. in Psychology. As a first-generation Latina, her experiences shaped her passion for guiding others in finding their path. She is currently the Assistant Director of Undergraduate Career Education and Development at the UCLA Career Center, where she supports Humanities and Social Science students and collaborates with the First To Go and Transfer Student Center offices. MJ is dedicated to helping students build confidence and navigate their careers, grounded in her belief that self-awareness is key to fulfillment. * * *  ****Jenna Mendoza, MA**** _**Student Affairs Officer for the Online Master of Healthcare Administration Program,** **Executive Programs, Department of Health Policy & Management,** **UCLA Fielding School of Public Health**_ Jenna Mendoza holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Loyola Marymount University. Jenna began working in student affairs at UCLA in 2020, where she utilized the counseling skills she developed during her graduate studies and the experiences she gained while working with first-year students at LMU. Jenna has been working with the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health online MHA program since 2021 and is committed to assisting MHA students from around the globe in achieving their academic and professional goals. UCLA's online MHA program is designed to equip working professionals with the leadership skills to implement effective, value-based care strategies guided by both data and compassion. The program offers a fully online curriculum with asynchronous learning accessible from anywhere, supplemented by two intensive on-campus immersions. To accommodate diverse professional schedules, the program provides four start dates per year—Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer—with both full-time and part-time tracks available. With a core emphasis on healthcare management, the degree requirements include a comprehensive capstone project that allows students to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. Graduates earn an MHA degree and gain entry into a robust and active alumni network, ensuring long-term professional connectivity and support. For more information, please visit:https://www.exechpm.ucla.edu/ * * *  ****Tiara Wair**** _**Assistant Dean, Recruitment, Outreach & Admissions, UCLA Division of Graduate Education**_ With more than 18 years of experience in higher education, Tiara is committed to expanding educational access and advancing student success. She holds a B.A. in Communication and an M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from Saint Louis University. In her current role as Assistant Dean for Recruitment, Outreach, and Admissions at the University of California, Los Angeles, she leads campus-wide strategies to recruit, admit, and enroll exceptional graduate students across more than 130 master’s and doctoral programs. A proud first-generation college graduate, Tiara has guided countless students and families through the complexities of the college search and admissions process. * * *
Getting Started on the Dissertation (Humanities, Social Sciences, and Related Fields)
Wed 5/27 • 5:15PM - 6:15PM PDT RSVP
This workshop gives an overview of organization, time management, writing process issues and writing strategies. Recommended for people in the early stages of the dissertation, but useful for all stages.
Mahjong Night with Asian Pacific Alumni of UCLA (APA) x Asian Business League of Southern California (ABL SoCal)
Wed 5/27 • 5:30PM PDT
Matriarch LA (formerly APT 503) • Los Angeles CA
Join us as we close out AAPI Heritage Month with an evening celebrating community, culture, and one of the hottest trends taking over Southern California. Asian Pacific Alumni of UCLA is excited to partner with the Asian Business League of Southern California for a special night featuring Mahjong Megachurch by Jared Eng and Eileen Foliente! We’re looking forward to bringing together Bruins, professionals, and friends for an energetic evening of mahjong, meaningful networking, food, and celebration.
What's Next - End of Year Celebration with the UCLA Latino Alumni Association (ULAA) and the Latinx Success Center
Wed 5/27 • 6PM PDT
Latinx Success Center • Los Angeles CA
As the academic year closes, we're hosting a panel discussion to support students navigating life's next chapter - whether that's entering the workforce, pursuing grad school, or returning home to serve their communities. This event celebrates their journey while providing practical guidance for the transitions ahead. Join us as we close out the year!
Orange County: OC UCLA Book Club
Wed 5/27 • 6:30PM PDT
Come to discuss this month's free read, a book you choose to read and share with us to formulate our next booklist.