Message in the sand: Gael students hit the beach just in time for the sunset near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. / Photo courtesy Veronica Fisina ’29
First-Years Hit the California Coast and Enjoy Santa Cruz Boardwalk
Roller coasters, beach sunsets, and new friendships for Class of 2029
Nothing says college kickoff like screaming on a roller coaster with people you just met. That’s exactly how Saint Mary’s first-year students spent their Saturday, September 27—trading books and syllabi for cotton candy and ocean waves at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
From Strangers to Beach Squad
The buses departed from campus early in the morning, carrying more than 100 first-year students to Santa Cruz. The trip was organized by Campus Recreation as part of the First-Year Experience programming to help new students build community outside the classroom. Upon arrival to the Boardwalk, students quickly formed small groups—some sticking with roommates, others joining classmates or meeting peers for the first time. Throughout the day, students could be seen introducing themselves in ride lines, sharing snacks at picnic tables, and exchanging contact information to stay connected after the trip.
From Andrew Vernan ’29, the company and the activities alike got high marks. “I was able to get closer with a lot more people and had a lot of fun,” he said.
“I was able to get closer with a lot more people and had a lot of fun.”
— Andrew Vernan ’29
Rides, Food, and Fun—All Included
This trip was fully funded through the Student Life Enhancement Fee, giving first-years the chance to enjoy the Boardwalk without worrying about admission costs. Each student received an unlimited ride wristband, unlimited barbecue, a private photo booth, and a drawing from a caricature artist, allowing them to experience the best of the seaside park at no additional cost.
“I loved that we got a chance to get a free drawing and photo booth,” said Celest Maya ’29. “Such a fun souvenir to cherish.”
Students lined up for the Giant Dipper, one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the country. Others opted for the historic Looff Carousel, known for its hand-carved horses, competing to snag brass rings as the ride spun. The sky glider cable cars offered breathtaking views of the beach, while arcade games, bumper cars, and funhouses rounded out the afternoon.
“I loved that we got a chance to get a free drawing and photo booth. Such a fun souvenir to cherish.”
— Celest Maya ’29
Building Community Beyond the Rides
While the roller coasters and games were the main draw, the real highlight of the trip was the chance for first-years to get to know each other outside the classroom. Students used the downtime between rides to swap stories about their first weeks at Saint Mary’s, talk about clubs and organizations they wanted to join, and make plans to meet up again on campus. For many, the trip served as an icebreaker, creating friendships that would carry into residence halls, study groups, and campus events throughout the semester.
