Founded 1968
Merrill College
Cultural Identities and Global Consciousness
Merrill College’s theme, Cultural Identities and Global Consciousness, helps students to understand the nature of cultural identity by examining the relationships between societies of the world and their struggles to preserve their cultures.Academic Requirements
The Merrill core course, Cultural Identities and Global Consciousness, helps students begin their academic careers at UC Santa Cruz through studying peoples’ struggles to preserve their cultural identities, as well as social change within and beyond the borders of the United States. Students study nationalism, imperialism, migration, globalization, cultural clashes, religious conflicts, and social inequalities. The selected readings are engaging and diverse, including vivid memoirs, personal journeys, and powerful histories, culminating with a visit and discussion from one of the year’s authors. This engaging academic experience is a student’s first step to becoming the culturally conscious global citizen we strive to graduate.Educational Enrichment and Extracurricular Opportunities
- Classroom Connection links community experience to university education by placing students in internships for credit in area schools.
- Merrill Student Government and Merrill Activities Council provide students an opportunity to develop leadership skills, create programs and events, and be an active part of UC Santa Cruz student legislature.
- Merrill plays host to KZSC radio station, the UCSC Peace Corps Office, Merrill Pottery Coop, the Lionel Cantu GLBTI resource center, and the Merrill Moat mural project.
- Merrill Activities Office provides programs and events, including banquets, workshops, performers, speakers, exhibits, and dances.
Housing and Dining
- Students are accommodated in two large and two smaller residence halls.
- Apartments are available to continuing students.
- A restaurant is located at the college.
- Housing Themes and Options at Merrill College
- A dining hall is nearby.