2023 FIG Leaders | First Year Programs

Theo AbadillaHe/Him

FIG: I8

Major: Mathematics and Education, Communities & Organizations

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love how holistic the school is. The university provides a surplus of opportunities and resources that are designed to develop you as a student as well as a person. There are a wide range of majors and classes that truly allow you to explore your interests and passions at a very high level. Everything on campus, including student led organizations, courses, study centers, and counselors, are geared to serving your goals and objectives.

Bryce AndersonHe/Him

FIG: B4

Major: Pre-Social Sciences

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love the campus, the weather, the food, the classes, the walkability, the diversity, the access to transport, and the events.

Dion Archer-RollHe/Him

FIG: J3

Major: Physics

What advice do you have for new students?

Go to events, meet new people, try new things, and feel free to explore! There are so many things to do around campus that you're guaranteed to find some activity that you never knew existed before if you do a little searching!

Jhoanna BadilloShe/Her

FIG: I4

Major: Intended: Nursing

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

I enjoy the second floor of Allen library that oversees Mary Gates Hall. The area is always quiet and, if it’s sunny, you can see the sunset. It’s lovely to see the sunset as you’re studying!

Itzel Bejarano-AriasShe/Her

FIG: H7

Major: Intended: Business Administration

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love the stunning campus and the large size. I love having new faces in my classes every quarter and the fact that there is something for everyone on campus.

Alec BensonHe/Him

FIG: F5

Major: Intended: History

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Try and go to as many on-campus events as possible! They are a great way to meet people and build community while at UW.

Neha BhargavaShe/Her

FIG: L

Major: Intended: Biology

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Dawg Daze! It's a great way to make new friends and have fun while doing so. It's super low stress and you get to try a million new things.

Briana BiroShe/Her

FIG: J4

Major: Architecture

What advice do you have for new students?

Be bold, be brave, and say yes to challenges. The best things happen when you put yourself out there, even though it might feel intimidating at first. So yes, join that RSO; yes, go to that event; yes, take that class; and yes, say hi to that person.

Amy BoschShe/Her

FIG: G1

Major: Biology: Physiology

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

Fritz Hedges Waterway Park for a view of the water and sunset

Nia BriceShe/Her

FIG: M1

Major: Medical Anthropology and Global Health

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus is the Instructional Center. The Instructional Center is a great place to study and has amazing tutors who are always there to help. It is also the perfect place to meet people who are tackling similar challenges with their courses.

Juliana BroganShe/Her

FIG: G6

Major: Intended: Biology

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I really enjoy the wide variety of classes I can take, and the learning resources on campus.

Jill BryanShe/Her

FIG: C3

Major: Real Estate

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Sunset view of the quad, ideally with a picnic on a sunny day

Lola BurtonShe/Her

FIG: C3

Major: Intended: Law, Societies & Justice

What advice do you have for new students?

My advice for new students is to step outside your comfort zone whether that be attending a Dawg Days event or joining a new RSO. You will find community wherever you want to find it.

Jillian CampbellShe/Her

FIG: E5

Major: Marine Biology

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

I love studying in the Life Sciences building because of all the windows and natural light, as well as the quiet, but not to quiet vibe which makes me want to be productive. Good place to get stuff done.

Katelyn ChaeShe/Her

FIG: J

Major: Computational Finance and Risk Management

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My personal favorite spot on campus is the population health building because it's very clean, there's a Starbucks, and lots of natural sunlight because of the architecture.

Kevin ChenHe/Him

FIG: K9

Major: Intended: Public Health

What advice do you have for new students?

Don't be afraid to expand outside your comfort zone and meet new people! College is a great place to explore and learn who you are as a person.

Sherlie ChenShe/Her

FIG: B5

Major: Education, Communities and Organizations

What do you love about the University of Washington?

The inclusiveness that everyone could express themselves.

Kaitlyn ChinShe/Her

FIG: F3

Major: Design

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love all of the faculty and how many different ways there are to get involved with whatever YOU love!

Jackie ChoiShe/Her

FIG: C8

Major: Business Administration

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

A must-experience in my opinion is the RSO fair! You get to learn so much more about the communities at UW and you'd be surprised at the variety of interests the RSOs cater to. I still remember the sunny day in fall when my friends and I walked through and signed up for some of the most interesting experiences I've had so far.

Julia CholewinskaShe/Her

FIG: E9

Major: Intended: Business Administration

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Find time once a week to wash your dishes - it is surprisingly relaxing and keeps your space clean.

Jinie ChonShe/Her

FIG: B2

Major: Intended: Law, Societies & Justice

What do you love about the University of Washington?

The people! UW would not be the same without its diverse and welcoming community :)

Amber ChouShe/Her

FIG: F7

Major: Early Child & Family Studies (ECFS) and Intended: Psychology

What advice do you have for new students?

Be courageous! Don't hesitate to step out of your comfort zone. It is essential to grab every opportunity to try and explore new things in this diversified and abundant environment. Moreover, don't hesitate to ask and seek help whenever you have questions or encounter problems; UW is a friendly and helpful environment where faculty and students are all willing to offer their hands.

Ella ChuangShe/They

FIG: C2

Major: Human Resources & Marketing

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

I love sports so I’d suggest some kind of sporting event! I’ve gone to almost every home football game since my sophomore year and it’s usually the highlight of my week in the fall!

Matthew ChungHe/Him

FIG: M5

Major: Intended: Informatics

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus is the East Asian library in Gowen.

Julia CopeShe/Her

FIG: B

Major: Mathematics

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Visit office hours at least once for every professor.

Delano CordovaHe/Him

FIG: J1

Major: Intended: Education, Communities and Organizations

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

The HUB because that's where I get my Strawberry Milk in the morning and then Pizza for lunch.

Kathy CuiShe/Her

FIG: F1

Major: Neuroscience

What advice do you have for new students?

Classes at UW are difficult - there's no question about it. I think my best advice for new students is to not let bad test scores and grades beat them down and to always remember to make time for themselves.

Maddie DavisShe/Her

FIG: C9

Major: Anthropology & Art 3D4M (3-Dimensional Forum)

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Check out the quarterly maker's fair in the HUB and support your artistic peers!

Trish DeviShe/Her

FIG: D5

Major: Philosophy

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus is Suzzallo! Its such a beautiful place and I love to study in the quiet room or even the Starbucks downstairs

Brooke DietmeierShe/Her

FIG: M4

Major: Intended: Informatics

What do you love about the University of Washington?

The diversity and gender inclusion of the school. The mass amount of amenities that are offered to students to help with hard classes. The location and access to activities in both the city and mountains/outdoors

Iris DimpseyShe/Her

FIG: F9

Major: Environmental Science & Resource Management

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love that it is a big school, but it has so may different activities and opportunities its easy to make the school feel small and find your group of people.

Francisco DojeniaHe/Him

FIG: J5

Major: Education, Communities and Organizations

What advice do you have for new students?

Be open, don't be shy to say "hello" and make friends, it can be lonely if you don't.

Leana DoughtyShe/Her

FIG: B3

Major: Psychology

What advice do you have for new students?

Try new things (such as classes, RSOs, hobbies) and explore the campus!

Simon DuHe/Him

FIG: B7

Major: Biochemistry

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Undergraduate research. A lot of research at the University of Washington are looking for undergrads and getting involved in undergrad research is a great way to learn more about a subject and get some more insight in a specific field you might be interested in.

Autumn DunganShe/Her

FIG: C4

Major: Pre-Sciences

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Besides FIGS, I'd recommend going to the events the HFS plans because it's a great way to meet people and relax.

Mia ElsberryShe/Her

FIG: E1

Major: Intended: Nursing

What advice do you have for new students?

I encourage new students to explore their passions at UW by joining clubs, choosing classes that spike their interest, trying out different resources, and more. There are so many opportunities to grow in your sense of self at UW, and it's great to explore what you really want to do!,

Seble EnyewShe/Her

FIG: M3

Major: Informatics

What do you love about the University of Washington?

The unlimited resources you can find on campus

Ellie FalleShe/They

FIG: G5

Major: Art

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Football games, the energy is unmatched.

Alec GabbertHe/Him

FIG: I1

Major: Marketing

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

Suzzallo 4th floor. I love the quiet atmosphere and the big windows overlooking the cool campus architecture. Sometimes the view is so great I forget to study!

Tarnvir GadhriShe/Her

FIG: A1

Major: Public Health

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love that there there are always people willing to help each other out.

Anna GallagherShe/Her

FIG: J6

Major: Architecture

What do you love about the University of Washington?

My favorite thing about the University of Washington is the community here on campus. I especially love seeing everyone gather together to support the school on game days and the atmosphere inside Husky Stadium!

Medha GanjamShe/They

FIG: I6

Major: Political Science

What advice do you have for new students?

Advocate for yourself and ask for help- reach out to your TA's, professor's, and advisors. Try new things, join RSO's your curious about, study in new places, make time to explore, apply for as many opportunities as you can, and make time to self-reflect! But most importantly don't be afraid to fail!

Jony GarfiaHe/Him

FIG: K6

Major: Accounting

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Any RSO you can find and become involved in will definitely be a backbone to your college experience. The RSOs I am part of now are where I found my closest friends and sense of community as well as belonging.

Kate GiesenShe/Her

FIG: D2

Major: Environmental Science and Resource Management

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

I love the greenhouse! It is a great, relaxing place to stop by in between classes and be surrounded by plants.

Ty GilstrapHe/Him

FIG: D1

Major: Political Science

What advice do you have for new students?

Make the most of the opportunities that are presented to you! College is the perfect environment to try things you may have been apprehensive about in the past, and you never know where your next passion may lie.

Henry GrandyHe/Him

FIG: L4

Major: Construction Management

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love all of the opportunities and resources that are provided for the students. Everyone can find a community or activity that is the perfect fit for them!

Jack GrendaHe/Him

FIG: G2

Major: Global and Regional Studies

What advice do you have for new students?

Always use all of the resources the UW has available. CLUE and office hours are both great resources that are here for you to succeed academically!

Seerut GrewalShe/Her

FIG: K8

Major: Public Health

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Joining an RSO that you relate to is a must because it provides a close knit community.

Simran GuptaShe/Her

FIG: D8

Major: Intended: Public Health & Informatics

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

Odegaard Undergraduate Library is my favorite spot because I love to study there! It is a quiet space to work alone but also is a great place to study with friends!

Owen HarwoodHe/Him

FIG: E7

Major: Intended: Psychology

What do you love about the University of Washington?

All the communities and opportunities that they provide! (and also the fact that you're less than a 5-min walk away from any Starbucks on campus)

Emilie HellerShe/Her

FIG: C5

Major: Chemistry

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Attend all classes and be friendly in them! Form connections and study groups within them.

Esther HimmelfarbShe/Her

FIG: J7

Major: Global & Regional Studies and Political Science

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

The Husky Grind for a good study environment and some snacks!

Isabelle HoShe/Her

FIG: F8

Major: Public Health

What advice do you have for new students?

Be open to all the experiences and opportunities! Don't be afraid to reach out, try new things, and get involved around campus.

Nan HuangShe/Her

FIG: B5

Major: Economics & Philosophy

What advice do you have for new students?

Explore the opportunity to engage in UW, be open to talk to people with different backgrounds.

Kyle HuckoHe/Him

FIG: D7

Major: Chemistry

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

I have spent hours upon hours in the Chem Study Center and over time, it has grown on me. Although there are countless places that are better looking or quieter, the Chem Study Center has a feeling of connected trauma for everyone who steps inside.

Chandler JensenAny

FIG: D

Major: Intended: Health Sciences

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Taking classes just for fun! People often say that the course they remember the most was one that had nothing to do with their degree; so take that photography class so you know how to use the equipment, or that psychology course so you can discover something about yourself, or even that course about dinosaurs just because you loved them growing up. Especially keep an eye out for 'Special Topic' courses in MyPlan, there's some real hidden gems there!

Caroline JiangShe/Her

FIG: A3

Major: Intended: Communication

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I like the atmosphere of the school, the human environment of the school.

Eric JooHe/Him

FIG: L3

Major: Business Administration

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Going to the IMA

Rashad KabirHe/Him

FIG: F2

Major: Mathematics

What do you love about the University of Washington?

The architecture and natural beauty of Seattle!

Remi KahnShe/Her

FIG: C1

Major: Informatics

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

I love Red Square because a lot of the RSOs like to come out and table. They usually sell food, promote their events, and play music so it's always super lively.

Koren KanoShe/Her

FIG: D6

Major: Intended: Psychology

What advice do you have for new students?

Try out new passions and hobbies, but also stay true to yourself and revisit some old ones too! This is a great way to find your people and community here at the UW!

Khushveen KaurShe/Her

FIG: A4

Major: Education, Communities, and Organizations

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

I love the pop health Starbucks they always make my drink perfect

Bailey KennedyShe/Her

FIG: L2

Major: Intended: Business

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

The top floor of Founder's Hall because there is a beautiful view and I love watching sunsets from there!

Ethan KilbreathHe/Him

FIG: A2

Major: Communication

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

Husky Stadium because I cover the football games from the press box and it’s awesome.

Braden KochHe/They

FIG: C3

Major: Intended: Political Science

What advice do you have for new students?

My advice for incoming university students is that besides study hard for your first test, make an effort to reach out with classmates, the Seattle Freeze is real!

Kavitha KrishnanShe/Her

FIG: A8

Major: Design and Anthropology

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Take one totally random, irrelevant class that seems fun--at least once!

Tina LaiShe/Her

FIG: K1

Major: Computer Science

What do you love about the University of Washington?

There's so many things to do around UW!! Seattle has so many fun places to visit, and lots of good food if you ignore how expensive everything is :,) The campus itself has very lovely buildings and architecture to look at.

Vinh LamHe/Him

FIG: K

Major: Intended: Nursing

What do you love about the University of Washington?

The amount of resources that there are for students to use

Ciara LaneyShe/Her

FIG: A2

Major: Architectural Design and Real Estate

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Fall Fling on the HUB Lawn is a must! It's a great way to kick off the school year and meet new friends

Chris LaraHe/Him

FIG: I

Major: Political Science & History

What advice do you have for new students?

A piece of advice I have for new students would take time to explore what you like! Whether it is RSO's, greek life, internships, undergraduate research, or professional development, make your time at the University of Washington worth it and explore what you want out of your college experience!

Addy LennemannShe/Her

FIG: A9

Major: Business Administration

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love UWs campus! I think it is gorgeous and the architecture is amazing.

Ali LewisShe/Her

FIG: H2

Major: Intended: Finance

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Attend as many Dawg Daze events as possible! It is such a great way to meet new people and there are so many different activities!

Arden LichterShe/Her

FIG: H

Major: Oceanography

What advice do you have for new students?

Talk to everyone and say yes as much as possible

Heidi LongwellShe/Her

FIG: H9

Major: History & Communication

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

Denny Field on North Campus, specifically when it’s sunny. Sitting under the sun on Denny is the warmest place on campus!

Karla MacielShe/Her

FIG: H5

Major: Anthropology

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love the architecture, studying on campus is a vibe.

Abhishri MahadevanShe/Her

FIG: G3

Major: Intended: Medical Anthropology

What advice do you have for new students?

Don't be afraid to reach out, self advocacy is so important especially at a large institution. Your version of UW is what you make of the experience and time here.

Guruswamy MaheshwaranHe/Him

FIG: A6

Major: Operations & Supply Chain Management

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Trying an IMA intramural.

Andrea MalagonShe/Her

FIG: E

Major: American Ethnic Studies

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

Suzzallo is my favorite spot because that is where I get all of my important work done!

Nico MasputraHe/Him

FIG: K5

Major: Intended: Neuroscience

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

I would say any of the Dawg Daze events are a must-experience for new students. It's a week full of organized events by the UW where First-year students go to where they can make new friends and explore different parts of campus.

Jannah McDanielShe/Her

FIG: M

Major: Speech and Hearing Sciences

What advice do you have for new students?

My advice to new students is to show up. This goes for showing up to class, events, and in social interactions. Being present is extremely important in college and it's going to be a great way to learn and make new connections.

Amar MerhiHe/Him

FIG: O3

Major: Pre-Sciences

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I really like the beautiful landscapes, amazing historical architectural design, and great diversity in the University of Washington. As well, it is a great place full of opportunities.

Roshan MettupalliHe/Him

FIG: L7

Major: Computer Science

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

I truly believe joining a FIG is a must-experience for all incoming freshmen at the UW, as it facilitates a seamless transition from high school to college. I personally was able to connect really well with one of my peers from my FIG, who is now a good friend of mine.

Akira MorishitaHe/Him

FIG: F6

Major: Intended: Biology

What advice do you have for new students?

Even though it may feel scary at first, don't be afraid to approach new people or try new things! Everyone is always very welcoming, and reaching out to people can help you find new interests!

Jayden MurphyHe/Him

FIG: C7

Major: History & Psychology

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

By the fisheries building looking towards the water. It is very peaceful to watch boats sail by.

Frannie MyersShe/Her

FIG: H6

Major: Intended: Community, Environment & Planning

What do you love about the University of Washington?

Limitless opportunities and clubs and groups to get involved with.

Kallie NguyenShe/Her

FIG: K2

Major: Microbiology

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Joining an RSO!

Vy NguyenShe/Her

FIG: I2

Major: Public Health

What do you love about the University of Washington?

The diversity and the experiences that are all so unique.

Maia OganekuShe/Her

FIG: K3

Major: Biochemistry

What advice do you have for new students?

My biggest piece of advice for new students is to immerse yourself in the culture here at UW and to get involved whether that be on-campus through RSO's and game days or off-campus and exploring Seattle.

Kyla OlitoquitShe/Her

FIG: A7

Major: Informatics

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

The Fritz Hedges Waterway Park (the small park near the Fishery hall). I like it because it's a nice spot to unwind and breathe some fresh air. It's also nice to watch the sunset there.

Sadie OsbornShe/Her

FIG: A4

Major: Communication

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love that UW provides a variety of interests and opportunities to students! People from all over the world go here to learn about a wide array of topics.

Jesse Palafox-ArceoHe/Him

FIG: I3

Major: Intended: Nursing

What do you love about the University of Washington?

Seattle, the academics/professors, and the community.

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Try and go to as many on-campus events as possible! They are a great way to meet people and build community while at UW.

Sejin ParkShe/Her

FIG: I9

Major: Intended: Economics

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus is the Allen Library! I espcially like to go and do my work in one of the wooden desks around the window since the natural lights come in. It's really fun to study with your friends and grab coffee together after the study session! I definitely recommend everyone checking out the Allen Library (with a cup of coffee from City Grind Espresso!)

Lauren ParkerShe/Her

FIG: H4

Major: Intended: Business

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus is the fountain because it is so beautiful when the mountain is out and the fountain is on. It is one of my favorite places to walk to on campus with my friends.

Makayla PerrillShe/Her

FIG: L5

Major: Sociology and Law, Societies & Justice

What advice do you have for new students?

You are entering a new stage of your life and it’s okay to change drastically within these next few years!! This is the time to step out of your comfort zone and figure out what works for you and what doesn’t. Be kind to yourself and ensure that you are surrounded by people that only bring positivity into your life. Have fun and don’t overwork/stress yourself!!

Enrique PiñeroHe/Him

FIG: L6

Major: Intended: Education, Communities, and Organizations

What advice do you have for new students?

Take chances, make mistakes, get messy, and most of all, keep moving forward.

MJ PowersShe/Her

FIG: I5

Major: Education, Communities and Organizations

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love how welcoming campus feels and weirdly enough, I love how vast campus is and that there are so many places that I am unfamiliar with. I love to explore around campus because there is constantly something happening somewhere around UW.

Hannah QianShe/Her

FIG: H8

Major: Law, Societies & Justice

What advice do you have for new students?

Reach out to others, express your interests, do what your heart tells you to

Erin RappShe/Her

FIG: M1

Major: Psychology

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus is the Life Sciences Building because they have a beautiful lounge area that faces a wooded area that really reminds me of why the PNW is so beautiful.

Kyle RaychelHe/Him

FIG: M2

Major: Informatics

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love my small network of friends. It has made me realize that over the years this network has supported me and developed in amazing ways both individually amongst us and all together. We have learned so much from each other from our experiences, hearing about experiences provides an opportunity to learn more about what you don't know.

Sebastian RaymondHe/Him

FIG: O5

Major: Sociology

What advice do you have for new students?

To be patient with oneself, including building and maintaining a social circle.

Peyton RobbinsShe/Her

FIG: F4

Major: Community, Environment & Planning

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Dawg Daze! It is such a great way to get familiar with campus and make friends before the school year starts.

Cayen RongShe/Her

FIG: O, O1, O2

Major: Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

Suzzallo library because it is quiet and I am generally more productive when I'm there.

Rachel RosenbergShe/Her

FIG: L1

Major: Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health

What do you love about the University of Washington?

My favorite thing about the University of Washington is the many diverse opportunities they have available for students. Whether it is an RSO, class, research, or other experiences, there is something for every interest!

Bromley RossShe/Her

FIG: H3

Major: Intended: Business

What do you love about the University of Washington?

The Harry Potter architecture and the academic environment

Shama SaleemShe/Her

FIG: G7

Major: Biology (Physiology)

What advice do you have for new students?

Don’t take everything too seriously and make sure to make time for fun.

Olivia SappShe/Her

FIG: A7

Major: Informatics

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I think the campus is so beautiful especially in the spring and fall. I also love how close we are to downtown Seattle. It's just a short train ride away!

Jonah SchurHe/Him

FIG: O4

Major: Sociology

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Definitely attend mindfulness workshops.

Thomas Sefair-LopezHe/Him

FIG: D9

Major: Information Systems and Human Resources Management

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Take a random class that is not aligned with your major that interests you! During my second quarter at UW, I took my first education class. I ended up loving it and decided to continue taking education class and pursue an Education, Learning, & Societies minor. That said, if you are taking multiple of the same classes that are not aligned with your major, check and see if are able to obtain a minor out of it!

Talia SegalShe/Her

FIG: K4

Major: Intended: Neuroscience

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus is the reading room is Suzzallo. It is beautiful and peaceful and a good to place to to feel connected to other students, as well as motivated to study.

Sarina SharmaShe/Her

FIG: C6

Major: Intended: Law, Societies & Justice

What advice do you have for new students?

Don't be afraid to get involved! Even if it's out of your comfort zone, putting yourself out there is the best way to gain new experiences and meet different people.

Adah SiegelShe/Her

FIG: E4

Major: Psychology

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My go-to spot on campus is the East Asia Library in Gowen Hall. It's super quiet and a great place to study.

Kim SmithShe/Her

FIG: F

Major: Political Science, Sociology, and Law, Societies & Justice

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

As someone who came to UW for the school spirit and football, I would say a must-experience is the student section for a football game! The energy there is unmatched and, even if you don't like football, the spirit in contagious and entertaining to be around.

Brandon SpoonerHe/Him

FIG: G

Major: History and Political Science

What advice do you have for new students?

Don't be too hard on yourself! Transitioning to college is a huge feat in and of itself, and it is very likely that it will not be completely smooth! That is why it's so important to give yourself some grace and to adjust at your own pace!

Sara SpragueShe/Her

FIG: B9

Major: Law, Societies & Justice and Political Science

What advice do you have for new students?

Even if you are just vaguely interested in something, give it a go! You never know where you are going to find your place.

Sophie St. DenisShe/Her

FIG: D3

Major: Marine Biology

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

Its basic but I love the silent room on the second floor of Suzzallo library. This room is also known as the Harry Potter look alike room but its so pretty and when the sun shines in into the room its even prettier. UW is surrounded by such amazing views of nature. I love classrooms on the outer edge of campus because they have pretty views of the mountains and Lake Washington.

Zara TegerShe/Her

FIG: B6

Major: Social Welfare

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Community service learning classes through CELE Center

Emanuel TesfayeHe/Him

FIG: A5

Major: Sociology and Education, Communities & Organizations

What do you love about the University of Washington?

The communities I've been able to connect with and the spaces that I've been able to make for myself

Maddy ThomasShe/Her

FIG: G4

Major: Earth and Space Sciences

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love the diversity of perspective! People come from all over and are challenged to work harder and think deeper and I really think that creates the environment here that promotes such growth.

Eve ThompsonShe/Her

FIG: J9

Major: Intended: Education, Communities & Organizations

What advice do you have for new students?

Take full advantage of the opportunities that present themselves

Radha ThothathriShe/Her

FIG: J2

Major: Pre-Sciences

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

Denny Field! I spend a lot of time there hanging out with friends, especially after getting ice cream from Frostbite.

Aaditya ThukralHe/Him

FIG: C

Major: Intended: Computer Science

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

I would say that volunteering is a must-experience for new students, I made many of my closest friends through volunteering at Frost-Bite at Madrona.

Kylie TopperShe/Her

FIG: K7

Major: Business Administration

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

The fall fling concert literally rocked my world. The fact that UW was able to provide such a fun and free concert for its students with such recognizable artists was shocking to me. It was a great introduction to college and I even made some new friends in the crowd. Also the dawg days carnival was so fun and engaging.

Sofia TorresShe/They

FIG: E3

Major: Political Science

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus is the Q Center because its a calm, quiet, and safe environment to do my work or just hang out with friends.

Estella TurlaShe/Her

FIG: C8

Major: Intended: Business Administration

What advice do you have for new students?

Put yourself out there and make those connections... college is what you make of it!

Manan VasdevHe/Him

FIG: I7

Major: Business Administration

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

The Quad when it's sunny! It's so nice to admire the architecture around the Quad and we don't get sunny days on campus, so enjoy the outdoors as much as you can!

Ariel WangShe/Her

FIG: E2

Major: Intended: Business Administration

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Dawg Daze in the beginning of the school year is one of the best chances to meet and make friends!

Stephanie WengShe/Her

FIG: B

Major: Intended: Communication

What advice do you have for new students?

Make sure to attend office hours! Attending office hours is always the most direct way for the professor/TA to know more about us, and especially if you are too shy to ask questions in a big class, office hours is the best opportunity to solve your curiosity.

Sydney WilliamsShe/Her

FIG: D4

Major: Sociology & Psychology

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

I think going to a football game is a must-experience for all new students. Getting to be in that high energy environment with all your friends is such a fun experience. It is a great way to get spirited and excited about being at UW.

Mateo WittHe/Him

FIG: G8

Major: Intended: Bioengineering

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

I love the Pop Health Building, especially for the amazing view of Seattle on the 8th floor.

Romee WuShe/Her

FIG: B1

Major: Biochemistry & Neuroscience

What advice do you have for new students?

Learn to accept the idea that transition to college is not going to be an easy process, celebrate your accomplishments along the way

Janey YeeShe/They

FIG: F3

Major: Interaction Design

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

I really like the Quad. Sometimes I just sit in the grass when it's sunny out and fall asleep. It really helps me with stress.

Jennifer YenShe/Her

FIG: E6

Major: Business Administration

What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?

Take a class not related to your major that you want to take for the sake of learning what the course has to offer, you have nothing to lose.

Audrey Yien WangShe/Her

FIG: E2

Major: Accounting

What do you love about the University of Washington?

What I love the most about UW is its diverse community. The student population comprises individuals from various parts of the globe, and I relish the opportunity to cultivate friendships with people of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Additionally, interacting with a diverse group of people at UW has broadened my perspective on the world and enriched my educational experience. It has also helped me to develop a greater sense of empathy and appreciation for different ways of thinking and living.

Kathy YinShe/her

FIG: E8

Major: Economics and Finance

What do you love about the University of Washington?

I love the friends that I have made throughout my time here; I love that I was able to get my actual real job at UW, and love that UW is minutes away from lots of fun spots in Seattle!

Thea ZabalaShe/Her

FIG: J8

Major: Biochemistry

What advice do you have for new students?

Try new things! Even if you feel anxious or like all eyes are on you, do it scared and you'll be shocked with what you learn.