The Freshman Summer Start Program (FSSP) is a six-week long Summer program designed to allow UCSB freshmen the opportunity to get an early start on their academic careers in an intellectually stimulating and socially supportive environment. The program aims to help students make a successful academic transition from high school to the University and seeks to improve first-year retention rates and decrease student time to degree.

Program Objectives

• Provide an academic experience during Summer Session B that gives freshman students early access to a rich selection of courses across the curriculum as well as specially organized core courses limited to FSSP students.
• Introduce students to the concept of the research university and undergraduate research opportunities.
• Develop opportunities for increased faculty student interaction both in and out of the classroom.
• Introduce students to the campus and its outstanding library, classroom, and research facilities.
• Provide academic support services and workshops to help students succeed academically.
• In conjunction with Residential Life staff and Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Counselors and Student Peers, provide an academically and socially supportive environment that will enhance student transition into the greater University community.
• Foster strong student identification with other FSSP students, the Program, and UCSB.