Our Story
Berkeley Connect began in 2010 as a pilot in the English Department, funded by alum Peter Chernin to help undergraduates experience the support of a small college within a major research university. The program quickly grew, becoming a campuswide initiative in 2014. Today, Berkeley Connect partners with over a dozen departments and serves more than 1,000 students each semester.
Since its launch, over 20,000 undergraduates and 350 graduate students have participated in Berkeley Connect.
What We Do
Berkeley Connect helps students find community, confidence, and direction at UC Berkeley. Each undergraduate is paired with a graduate student mentor who offers:
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Personalized guidance on academics, research, and future goals
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Small group discussion that build connection and belonging around academic interest
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Access to campus resources through field trips and curated events
Students meet regularly with their mentor and peers, forming relationships that extend beyond the classroom making this large university small
Why It Matters
UC Berkeley is a large campus, and navigating it can feel overwhelming. Berkeley Connect creates a welcoming space where students can:
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Build meaningful relationships
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Explore their academic interests
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Gain confidence in their ability to succeed
As one student shared:
“Before Berkeley Connect, I felt like a number. The program helped me find my voice and feel like I belonged.”
Graduate students also benefit. Fellows receive training, mentorship from faculty, and experience leading small‑group discussions—skills that support their teaching, research, and career development.
Our Community
Berkeley Connect serves a broad cross‑section of undergraduates, including many who have been historically underserved in higher education. Each year:
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Nearly 50% of participants are transfer students
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About 30% identify as underrepresented minorities
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Many are first‑generation college students
Looking Ahead
For more than a decade, Berkeley Connect has helped students discover their academic passions, build community, and envision new possibilities. Over 90% of participants report increased confidence and belonging.
Donor support allows Berkeley Connect to create small communities for our undergraduates at scale.