Mission Statement
The UCR CNAS Transfer Connections Program is dedicated to empowering transfer students to achieve academic, professional, and personal success as CNAS students and future professionals. Through personalized mentorship, hands-on research opportunities, and a supportive community, we provide the tools and resources needed to help students navigate their journey—from transferring to UC Riverside to thriving as leaders on campus. Rooted in UCR’s commitment to community and upward mobility, the CNAS Transfer Connections Program celebrates students from all backgrounds and experiences. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to expanding research opportunities, strengthening faculty partnerships, and empowering the next generation of STEM leaders.
Join us as we continue to help students transfer, transition, and thrive at UC Riverside.
Empowering Transfer Students in STEM: Our Story and Programs
The UCR CNAS Transfer Connections Program has a rich history of empowering transfer students to achieve success in STEM fields. Founded in 2008 as part of the STEM Pathway Project, the program began with a bold vision: to increase representation and success for underserved and underrepresented students in STEM. Supported by a $3.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education, the program partnered with community colleges to create pathways for transfer students to thrive at UC Riverside. Over the years, the program evolved into STEM Connections, institutionalizing its commitment to mentorship, research, and outreach.
CNAS Transfer Connections
In 2023, the program entered its next chapter as CNAS Transfer Connections, refining its mission to provide support and resources tailored to the unique needs of CNAS transfer students. The program continues to build upon its legacy by offering resources, research opportunities, and peer mentorship. Through initiatives like Summer Bridge to Research (SBTR), Transfer Transition Seminar Course, CNAS Talks, and faculty-student mixers, we ensure that every transfer student has the tools, resources and support they need to thrive at UCR and beyond.
Summer Bridge to Research
The SBTR program connects incoming and continuing CNAS transfer students with faculty mentors for a paid, hands-on research experience during the summer. In an immersive 10-week research experience, students are provided STEM professional development, scholar mentorship, and the opportunity to present at our annual summer RISE symposium. SBTR scholars also have the unique opportunity to attend the Transfer Transition Summer Bootcamp—three crash courses designed to help transfers hit the ground running at UCR. These efforts not only helped students acclimate to UCR but also positioned them for long-term success in STEM fields.
Peer Mentorship
At the heart of CNAS Transfer Connections is our Peer Mentorship Program, where high-achieving CNAS students—many of whom are transfer students themselves—guide incoming transfers through their journey at UCR. These mentors understand the unique challenges of transitioning to a four-year university and serve as invaluable resources for navigating campus life. From connecting students to STEM career advising and scholarship opportunities to facilitating faculty networking and research experiences, Peer Mentors provide personalized support to help students thrive. As an incoming transfer student, we highly encourage you to join the Peer Mentorship Program and be matched with a Peer Mentor who will help you build connections, access resources, and unlock opportunities for success and growth.
Transfer Transitions Seminar Course
The Transfer Transition Seminar Course (NASC 092-TTS), a cornerstone of the program, is designed to help first-year transfer students acclimate to UC Riverside and excel in their academic and personal journeys. This one-unit course introduces students to the university’s resources, academic expectations, and career opportunities in STEM fields. Through interactive discussions, workshops, and guest speakers, students develop essential skills such as time management, critical thinking, and study strategies, while building a strong peer support network. NASC 092-TTS also emphasizes career development, research engagement, and personal growth, ensuring students are well-prepared to navigate UCR and achieve their goals.
Community and Clubs
But it’s not all about academics—we also know how important it is to build connections and have fun along the way. That’s why we host quarterly events such as Finals Week De-stress Socials, STEM CAFE, and Conchas and Coffee, where students can relax, engage, and interact with fellow transfers, Peer Mentors, advisors, faculty, and staff. These events create a sense of belonging and remind students that they’re part of a community that cares about their success. Students also have the opportunity to join the STEM Connections Club, an Associated Students of UCR organization, and take on leadership roles within the club. CNAS Transfer Peer Mentors and active UCR student members organize service and community events, while collaborating with other UCR organizations, clubs, and students to build stronger STEM connections across colleges like CNAS, BCOE, and CHASS.