Spirits remained high despite heavy rain as about 2,000 new students participated in UC Merced’s annual Scholars Bridge Crossing on Tuesday morning. The event, which marks the university’s traditional welcome for first-year and transfer students, coincided with the campus celebrating 20 years since its first undergraduate class.
Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz addressed the crowd as storm clouds gathered overhead. “We’re all excited to have you here, and we’re going to get this thing moving,” Muñoz said. “You are the realization of a future launched 20 years ago. You will find countless ways to discover who you are and who you want to become.”
The ceremony proceeded quickly as rain intensified. Muñoz, joined by his wife Professor Zenaida Aguirre-Muñoz and the university’s three school deans, led students across Scholars Lane and over the bridge. Faculty and staff cheered them on while holding up welcome signs against the downpour.
In previous years, students would pause at the Beginnings sculpture for greetings from campus leaders. However, due to the weather, this year’s crossing was swift, with participants seeking shelter under nearby buildings after completing the walk.
Despite changes to the schedule and many activities moving indoors, students maintained a celebratory atmosphere during lunch and other events. Several shared their reasons for choosing UC Merced.
Romeo Yang from Sacramento, a bioengineering major, said he liked that the campus is walkable and has enjoyed meeting new people during welcoming events. Winnie Mabula of San Jose noted she received significant financial aid and appreciated the friendly environment: “what stood out to me is that everybody is nice and friendly. The atmosphere is very welcoming.” Jonathan Brown from Placencia chose UC Merced for its campus life and opportunities in science and robotics.
Academic advisers and professors met with students during indoor sessions introduced this year. Kassandra Suentel of Tracy said Professor Yang Lor helped her begin planning her academic path: “I asked him a couple questions and he was very informative,” Suentel said. “He helped me start to figure out my future here.”
Fourth-year chemical engineering student Luis Onofre demonstrated a metal wire returning to its original shape when heated—a display that engaged many newcomers.
Public Information Officer Patty Guerra contributed to this report.
