SMC Start Up Event Kicks Off the New Academic Year
Santa Monica College’s Start Up event brought students together on September 12th to explore campus resources, enjoy free food, and kick off the new academic year.
Santa Monica College (SMC) kicked off the academic year with its annual Start Up event on Sept. 12 at the main campus quad. Sponsored by the SMC Foundation, the event aimed at helping both new and returning students connect with an array of resources available at the college. An estimated 2,000 students participated in the event, with over 1500 meals and 800 Bodega bags handed out.
The main highlight of the event was the Resource Fair, where students could explore the numerous services and opportunities that SMC has to offer. Counselors were readily available, providing academic guidance and support on the spot. For those looking to get involved on campus, student clubs and organizations set up engaging booths to recruit new members and share their activities and missions.
The fair also showcased the diverse academic programs and majors available at SMC. Representatives from different academic departments were present to answer questions and provide insights into the various pathways students could pursue.
“I think events like this show how much SMC cares about our students and the community,” said Kiersten Elliott, one of the event’s organizers. “We really want them to know that this is the hug that it was intended to be. We just want them to be successful.”
In addition to the Resource Fair, the Start Up event featured a lively atmosphere with a Power 106 DJ booth providing music and entertainment. To the delight of all attendees, free food and drinks were offered as well. For students looking to unwind and socialize, ping pong and cornhole stations provided opportunities for students to connect with their peers.
“It helps students who maybe are shy to connect with one another, or at least start to become more familiar with the campus so they could start calling it their home,” said Elliott.
SMC Start Up was a vibrant start to the academic year, helping students acquaint themselves with campus resources, connect with peers, and explore the many opportunities available within the SMC community.
