Student creativity is woven into everyday life at University of the Pacific. Many music ensembles are open to anyone, music major or not. Pacific’s gallery and stages host student work, and cultural festivals connect campus to the wider world.  

Here’s a look at how you’re immersed in arts in culture on campus. You may even find a way to show off your own work.  

Campus stages and galleries 

Whether you’re viewing a student exhibit at the Reynolds Gallery or watching a performance at Faye Spanos Concert Hall, Pacific has spaces where creativity thrives. All across campus, there is no shortage of ways to engage with art.  

Weekly films and speakers

Film lovers have lots of choices with weekly screenings of independent, classic and international films throughout the academic year, plus special guest lectures and premiere nights for student-made work.

Student musicals

Student musicals at Pacific’s Faye Spanos Theatre bring together performers, musicians, designers and crew from across campus to create vibrant productions that showcase both talent and collaboration. Recent productions include “Brigadoon,” “Camelot” and “Into the Woods.”

Student and faculty art exhibitions

The Reynolds Gallery is more than a place to view art—it’s a space where students expand their perspectives and sharpen their visual literacy. Changing exhibitions throughout the year immerse visitors in diverse media and ideas, while selections from Pacific’s permanent collection enrich everyday campus life. Always free and open to the public, the gallery connects students to art in ways that deepen their education and sense of place in the cultural landscape.

Culture around every corner 

Art lives in surprising corners of Pacific’s campus, from murals brightening walkways to impromptu performances that spark connection.

Campus murals

Student-created murals bring color and creativity to some of Pacific’s most recognizable spaces. On the Jeannette Powell Art Center, large-scale works turn blank walls into vibrant canvases that showcase the talent of Pacific artists. The DeRosa University Center, the heart of student life, also features a striking mural that welcomes visitors with bold design and student perspective. Each piece was envisioned, designed, and painted by students, making the murals not only artistic landmarks but also lasting contributions to the cultural identity of the campus.

Powell Art Collection

Robert and Jeannette Powell, Pacific’s largest donors, gifted over 20 works of art that can be found in spaces on all three of Pacific’s campuses in Stockton, Sacramento and San Francisco. The collection is the centerpiece of Pacific’s permanent collection and features works from Ruth Rippon, Jasper Johns, Richard Diebenkorn, Frank Lobdel and more American artists.

Campus culture

Your turn on stage 

Not a music major? No problem. Pacific offers ensembles, choirs and jam sessions that welcome students from every background, proving you can make music no matter what your major is. 

Pacific Pep Band

Pacific Pep band is for anyone, even non music majors, no audition required! You can even get payed to play at campus events all year-round.  

Mariachi band

Your front-row seat to Pacific’s campus arts and culture

Mariachi is offered as both a class and ensemble through the conservatory, open to students of any major with prior experience on violin, trumpet, guitar vihuela or guitarrón.

Originating from the western Mexican state of Jalisco in the mid-1800s, mariachi blends indigenous and European sounds and stands as a vibrant symbol of Mexican culture.

Festivals and traditions 

Listen to drums shake the air at the Diwali festival, watch lanterns glow for Lunar New Year and see the campus come alive at the block party. From first gatherings to traditional festivals, these moments blend joy, culture and community.  

Diwali festival

Diwali, also known as The Festival of Lights, is a very important Indian religious holiday that symbolizes the spiritual victory of Dharma over Adharma, light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. 

Latinx Heritage Month

Your front-row seat to Pacific’s campus arts and culture

Pacific’s Latinx Heritage Month celebrates the rich histories, cultures and contributions of Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. 

The festivities feature events from students, faculty, staff and alumni groups that showcase Latinx history and culture.

Black History Month

Black History Month at Pacific offers students high-profile speakers and a diverse lineup of events. Through events, performances, and conversations, students see how the creativity, leadership, and achievements of Black changemakers continue to shape our communities and the world. In 2025 the university welcomed actor, Giancarlo Esposito who spoke about embracing the various aspects of his bi-racial and acting identities and discussed how loving what you do for a living can help launch a successful career.

Lavender Graduation

Lavender Graduation is a supplemental graduation ceremony intended to recognize the accomplishments of students who identify as LGBTQ+ and/or have been involved in the LGBTQ+ community during their time at Pacific.

Live events

Spotify playlist: Artists who have performed at Pacific

Check out all the artists who’ve performed on campus. 

Ready to jump in? 

You don’t just see art at Pacific, you live it. Whatever you love to do or see, there’s a place for it on campus. Check out Pacific’s events calendar to see the ways you can get involved.  

On Aug. 16, University of the Pacific will welcome a brand-new class of Tigers to campus as first-year students move in and kick off their college journey. To help make your Move-In Day easy and stress-free, we’ve put together everything you need to know, from arrival logistics to making your dorm feel like home.  

Before you get here, take a few minutes to review the campus map and check out the Orientation agenda so you know what to expect. Once you’re here, keep an eye out for Ask Me Tents stationed around campus for help with any last-minute questions.  

While you’re preparing, don’t forget to check out our dorm packing list for tips on what to bring (and what to leave behind).  

Where to park 

When you arrive, look for a parking spot near your assigned residence hall. You’ll be thankful for the short walk when you’re hauling your stuff later! You have an assigned move-in time, so don’t start unloading once you’ve parked. ! You’ll get a timetable when you check in.  

Staff from Pacific’s Department of Public Safety will direct traffic and can help you find a spot if these lots fill up. Pacific doesn’t enforce parking fees during Orientation.  

There is no after-hours or Sunday move-in, so it’s important to arrive during your assigned time. If you miss your scheduled move-in, you’ll need to check in with Pacific’s Residential Life and Housing office during the week to get next steps.  

The Quad Communities 

If you’re assigned to a Quad Community, there are parking lots directly to the north and south. Both are marked with red pins on the map below.  

To access either lot, enter campus from the west via North Pershing Avenue. Turn onto Larry Heller Drive at the traffic light and continue until you reach a four-way intersection.  

• To park south of the Quads, turn right at the intersection. 

• To park north of the Quads, continue straight onto Rudkin Way. The lot will be on your right at the end of the road.  

Grace Covell Hall or Greek Housing 

If you’re moving into Grace Covell Hall or a Greek house, head to the parking lot directly behind Greek housing. It’s marked with a red pin on the map below.  

While this area is tucked away, it’s easy to find. Start by heading to Pacific Avenue, which runs along the east side of campus. At the traffic light, turn onto campus and head right toward Burns Tower.  

From there, follow Chapel Lane as it curves into Atchley Way. When you reach the Greek housing area, turn left. The parking lot will be just ahead on your right.  

How to check in 

Once you’ve parked, head to the DeRosa University Center (DUC) Ballroom to check in. There, you’ll receive everything you need for New Student Orientation, such as your Pacific ID card, Orientation badge, room key and personalized schedule.  

• Pro tip: Keep your badge on at all times. You’ll need it to access Orientation sessions, meals and other activities.  

You should have received your assigned move-in time via email, and you’ll get a reminder when you check in. Depending on your residence hall, you may also receive specific unloading instructions at that time. 

Have some time before your move-in slot?  

• Stop by the Orientation Fair on the second floor of the DUC to connect with Pacific departments and campus resources.  

• Starting at 9 a.m., you can register or update your voter registration on the DUC lawn.  

Move into your room

Once you’ve checked in and it’s your scheduled move-in time, it’s time to settle in!  

For large items like furniture or TVs, take advantage of the limited 20-minute unloading zones near your residence hall. These are short-term only, so be ready with the items you want to unload before you park there.  

Need help? Pacific staff, resident assistants and area coordinators will be nearby to assist with finding unloading zones, answering questions or resolving access issues.  

Don’t haul the small stuff 

You can ship some smaller items to Pacific’s mail room, which will be open on Move-In Day. Mail your packages early so they arrive by Aug. 14 at the latest! Staff need a few days to log and sort everything before you move in.  

Use this mailing address to ship packages; replace the words in brackets with your personal information:  

3601 Pacific Ave. 

Stockton, CA 95211 

Don’t forget to bring your student ID! You’ll need it to retrieve your package from the mail room. Pacific Mail Services is north of the Calaveras River, marked with a pin on the map below. Cross the pedestrian bridge north of the Quads to get there. Please note, Pacific Mail Services will be closed on Sunday, Aug. 17. 

• Pro tip: Pacific has two Amazon lockers on campus that you can use as well, named Cacophony and Argenta. 

We’re so excited to welcome you to the Pacific community! See you Aug. 16! 

College students live pretty busy lives. When you’re not running to class or tackling assignments, you’ll want your room to be a comfortable place to recharge. To help you plan, here’s a guide on what’s already provided in your on-campus housing, what you should bring with you and what you should not bring.  

You can make your move easier by buying some of these items locally. Pacific’s Stockton Campus is just a few minutes’ drive away from Target and the Weberstown Mall.

Have more questions? Be sure to check Pacific’s Housing FAQ for details about campus living.  

What your dorm includes 

Rooms in Pacific’s residence halls, apartments and Greek housing come fully furnished. While room size vary, you can always count on these essentials:

• A twin XL mattress and bed frame
• Dressers
• A desk
• A desk chair
• A closet or armoire

Keep in mind: University-provided furniture cannot be removed or placed in storage, so plan your packing accordingly if you’re thinking about bringing additional furniture. 

What you should bring 

While your room comes with the basics, It’s up to you to make it feel like home. 

Along with the essentials listed below, you’re welcome to bring personal items like devices, chargers, books, small decorations and other entertainment, but try to keep it minimal. You’re sharing the space, so a little goes a long way.  

 Here are the must-haves for living in Pacific housing: 

• Twin XL bedding
  • Bed sheets
  • Pillows and pillowcases
  • Blanket(s)
  • Comforter
  • Mattress topper
• Bath towels
• Shower caddy and shower slippers
• Toiletries
  • Toothbruth and toothpaste
  • Floss
  • Brush/comb
  • Prescription and over-the-counter medications
  • Your bathroom essentials
• Laundry bag or basket
• Laundry detergent
• Under-the-bed storage bags or bins
• Hangers
• Desk lamp
• Cleaning supplies
• Extension cord or power strip
• Clothing

You can also bring larger appliances, depending on where you’re living. If you’re in a residence hall, you’re allowed to bring a TV, microwave (900 watts or less) and a mini fridge (up to 3.2 cubic feet). Don’t feel like hauling your own? You can also rent a microwave or minifridge instead.  

If you’re living in an apartment, bring kitchen essentials like pots and pans, utensils, plates and other cooking supplies. Here’s a complete list of recommendations.  

Pro tip: Reach out to your roommate before Move-In Day. You can find their email in the housing portal when viewing your housing assignment. For bigger or more expensive items, coordinate with them so you don’t bring doubles.  

Not sure how to reach out to your roommate for the first time? Here are some tips and an email template you can follow.  

What you should not bring 

Some things just don’t belong in a dorm room, especially if they’re hazardous, disruptive or against housing policies. Some items that are strictly prohibited:  

• Illegal or controlled substances
• Large holiday or string lights
• Water-filled furniture
• Exterior antennas
• Outdoor clotheslines
• Dead plants or trees
• Fireworks
• Any form of weapon, including air or bb guns

Pets aren’t allowed in campus housing, unless they are approved emotional support or service animals. The only exception is fish, as long as their tank is 5 gallons or smaller.  

Any appliance with an open heating element is a fire hazard and not allowed in residence halls. This includes:  

• Hot plates
• Sun lamps, lava lamps and halogen lamps
• Incense
• Candles and candle warmers
• Space heaters

Toasters and coffee pots are only permitted in apartment kitchen areas. If you’re unsure about a particular item, please contact Residential Life and Housing at IAmHome@Pacific.edu or209.946.2331.  

It’s common to feel unsure where to connect when you first step onto a college campus. At University of the Pacific, your residence hall is more than just a place to sleep, it’s a place for connection, involvement and personal growth. Pacific’s Living Learning Communities (LLC) program is designed to nurture your academic and self-improvement.  

“The intention behind a living learning community is to give all incoming first-year and transfer students a coordinated connection to the university, independent of their major,” says Associate Director for Housing Administration Charlotte Stackpole. “Being able to join an LLC gives students a way to find their passions and find other like-minded individuals outside the classroom.” 

In these communities you’ll live and collaborate with fellow students, get involved with student organizations and campus partners and discover activities that enrich your college journey. Each community reflects a Pacific core value  that shapes its culture, events and learning focus. Here’s a look at what makes each community unique. 

Joining a community

 Sign up for an LLC by selecting your top three LLCs when filling out your housing application. First-year housing is divided between Grace Covell Hall and some of the Quad communities. Some buildings are assigned specifically, for example John Ballantyne, which is home to the First-Year Honors program, a subset of the Scholars LLC, while other buildings are utilized based on the number of students interested in a particular LLC. Students within a Living Learning Community live together on the same floor or wing, so there are plenty of opportunities to get to know your fellow community members. If you have questions, reach out to Residential Life and Housing (iamhome@pacific.edu) for more information. 

Scholars community 

Core value: Academic excellence 

This academically driven community at John Ballantyne Hall supports students focused on research, special projects and other opportunities that showcase their dedication to learning. While anyone may apply, this community is best for you if you’re in an accelerated pre-health program or if you’ve been accepted into the First-Year Honors or Powell Scholars program. If you’re a pre-pharmacy major, you can also expect to feel at home in the LLC because it will provide social and study support during the rigorous program. 

Unity community 

Core value: Community engagement 

The goal of this LLC is to guide you to become an active member of your larger community by encouraging volunteerism and other real-world opportunities. Members of this group often participate in Pacific’s volunteer center, where they can join initiatives in Stockton and San Joaquin County. If you’re enrolled in the College Corps program or if you’re interested in sustainability initiatives and volunteer opportunities, this is a community where you’ll likely feel comfortable. 

MOSAIC community 

Core value: Diversity and inclusion 

Pacific embraces the diversity of its student body. The MOSAIC (Multicultural, Outreach, Support, Advocacy, Inclusion and Community) LLC offers a welcoming space to connect, learn and grow alongside students from all backgrounds. Open to all students, this community is suited for those passionate about multicultural engagement. It is supported in collaboration with Pacific’s Center for Identity and Inclusion. 

“It’s three floors, the first one is gender inclusive, the second is men’s and the third is women’s,” says Asteroid Toles, a MOSAIC resident assistant (RA). “I think even for people outside the LGBTQ community, knowing that they were in a community with diverse backgrounds, made them a lot more understanding and accepting of their floor mates.” 

Growth community 

Core value: Integrity and accountability 

The Growth LLC helps you reflect on your values and discover lifelong learning opportunities that support your success. This community focuses on wellness, sportsmanship and building a strong personal foundation at Pacific. This community is open to anyone but is especially meaningful if you’re focused on a path toward self-improvement and accountability. 

Leadership community 

Core value: Respect and civility 

Looking to become a leader? The Leadership LLC supports your journey toward becoming a thoughtful and engaged leader within your community. There are opportunities to build confidence, collaborate with others and practice real-world leadership. Any student can apply, but this community is designed especially for those interested in collaborative leadership experiences, whether in esports, campus recreation, student government or other student-led organizations. 

Transitions community 

Core value: Student-centered 

No matter your background, whether you’re a transfer student, veteran or commuting from home, the Transitions community helps you feel connected from day one. Feeling active and involved in the campus community is one of the most important aspects of a university experience. The Transitions community is committed to involving you, no matter your background in life, including age, veteran status or living situation.  

Community activities 

Life at an LLC is driven by fun activities and collaboration with your fellow students and student groups on campus. RAs hold social and academic events every month. Toles, for example, organized slideshow nights, aromatherapy events and anime watch parties. RAs are planning more events around volunteering and academic counseling, so students can work through obstacles in their studies together.  

When you’re juggling classes, studying and everything else college life throws at you, figuring out what to eat shouldn’t be a hassle. Good news: at University of the Pacific, it isn’t. 

From quick snacks to full meals, Pacific makes it super easy to find something tasty—no meal prep or instant ramen required. With plenty of dining spots right on campus, you can grab lunch between classes, pick up coffee on the way to a study session or sit down with friends for dinner, all without leaving campus. 

There’s something for everyone, too: vegan, vegetarian, halal and gluten-free options are available every day. To make things even easier, we’ve put together a guide to help you see what’s available and where to find it, so you can spend less time worrying about food and more time enjoying campus life. 

All locations accept meal plan, cash, debit, credit and Apple Play 

The Marketplace (central campus) 

DeRosa University Center 
Monday to Friday: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. 
Saturday to Sunday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. 

Probably the most common place to get a meal on campus, The Marketplace is your central hub for campus dining. Here you can get breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are a handful of meal stations, each themed to different types of food: 

• Wok 2 Thailand – Serves a variety of Asian cuisine and frequently offers ramen, pho and more. 

• Spice Market/Cashmere Trail – A revolving station that serves everything from falafel, lamb and butter chicken to vegetarian delights.  

• Latin Flavors – This is where you can grab a burrito or get a giant plate of nachos. 

• Charred/Smoke House – A revolving station where you can get burgers, chicken, fish and much more right off the grill.  

• Trattoria – Looking for Italian food? This is the perfect spot to get your pasta custom-made.  

• FujiSan Sushi station – A quick grab-and-go spot to get fresh sushi from nigiri to California rolls. 

• Deli Station – where you can pick from a variety of different breads, meats and vegetables to make your customized sandwich. Plus, you can get it panini pressed. 

• Salad Bar – Build your own, perfect salad. 

From 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. you can also grab one of The Marketplace’s coveted breakfast burritos. Be sure to check the weekly calendar for the week’s menu and special themed meals. 

The Lair (central campus) 

DeRosa University Center, Second Floor 
Monday to Thursday: 11 a.m. – midnight                                                                                     
Friday: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.                                                                          
Saturday: 5 p.m. – 1 a.m.                                                                      
Sunday: 5 p.m. – midnight 

Located just upstairs from The Marketplace, The Lair is the perfect spot to play pool with friends, watch the game and grab a late-night meal. There are new pub-style specials every day off the grill or from the oven, but you can’t go wrong with their classic chicken tenders and curly fries. Students 21 and over can also enjoy a selection of beers on tap. The space frequently holds all kinds of events throughout the year so you can’t go wrong dropping by.  

The Grove (central campus) 

McCaffrey Center 
Monday to Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Saturday: Noon – 11 p.m.
Sunday: Noon – 10 p.m. 

If you’re running behind for lunch, The Grove is a great place to grab a snack or dessert before class. Located under the McCaffrey Center apartments, The Grove is a convenience store that sells pizza slices, salads, sandwiches to grab on the go and just about every soft drink you’ll want. It’s also a great spot to stock up on food and snacks for your room. Be sure to drop by near the end of every semester if you have extra meal points. The Grove offers items in bulk. 

Starbucks (central campus) 

William Knox Holt Memorial Library 
Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. 
Saturday to Sunday: 10 a.m.- 4.p.m. 

If you’re craving your favorite seasonal drinks from Starbucks, you won’t have to go off campus. This full-service Starbucks is just like any other and doubles as an ideal study space. It’s located in the William Knox Holt Memorial Library and includes outside seating. It even accepts payment from your meal plan. 

Pacific food truck (south campus) 

Near the DeMarcus Brown Studio 
Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m 

Located between the DeMarcus Brown Studio and communication/psychology buildings, the Pacific food truck offers bites for on the go and meals you can enjoy on the outside patio area. The location is the ideal spot for media production, communication, geoscience and art students to get lunch. What makes this spot especially unique? It’s breakfast food all day!   

Cafe 1851 (north campus) 

Calaveras Hall 
Monday to Friday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. 

 A convenient spot for Calaveras Hall residents to grab a morning coffee or an afternoon snack. Think of it as a mini-Grove but unlike The Grove, it has a selection of coffee drinks and smoothies. If you’re on your way to the mail room or a class on north campus, it may be worth a pitstop.  

Health Sciences Cafe (north campus) 

Health Sciences building 
Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

If you’re on north campus, you can easily grab a coffee, snack or even a small lunch like pizza or a sandwich at the cafe conveniently located within the Health Sciences building. It provides a welcome oasis for Chan and Monagan Hall residents and health science students. 

Pulling on their snow gear and trying to avoid the mud, University of the Pacific students stepped out of their vans near Lake Tahoe on Jan. 18. Already feeling the biting cold of the higher altitude, they readied themselves to go snowshoeing.  

They listened as the guide outlined the hike. It was the first time any of them had used snowshoes, an opportunity given to them by Tiger Escapes.  

Do you know what Lake Tahoe has in common with San Francisco, Yosemite National Park and Sacramento? All four, and many other great locations, are perfect day trips and a relatively easy drive from Pacific’s Stockton campus.  

You may not have access to a car, though. Public transit like buses, Amtrak  and BART are another good way to travel but don’t offer service everywhere. And if you’re not from the area, you may feel like your hands are full just trying to learn Stockton, let alone broader northern California.  

That’s where Tiger Escapes come in. This Pacific Recreation program can take you on weekend adventures throughout the region for hikes, beach days, camping trips and more.  

It’s a great way to get introduced to the Central Valley and beyond, which is why computer science student Soojal Kumar ’25 has been going on Tiger Escapes since arriving at Pacific from Pakistan.  

“Initially, I didn’t have a car,” he says. “Now I do, but I still wouldn’t go that far by myself. So, visiting these areas, exploring them and getting to know about them is mostly through Tiger Escapes.” 

Kumar was among the group who headed to Lake Tahoe. Along with the help of some guides and Pacific staff, the students trekked up and into the forest to get a scenic view of the surrounding Sierra Nevada.  

The hike was difficult and rewarding in turns, with most students shedding their warm snow gear as they worked hard to get up the incline. The guides were keen to keep all the students safe through the hike, adding plenty of stops for rest and water.  

For most of the students, the trip was their first time snowshoeing. And for bioengineering student Iliana Minervini ’25, who comes from El Salvador, it was her first time being in the snow.  

“It was truly beautiful,” she says. “The landscape was completely different. I’ve been to Tahoe when it wasn’t showing. It was nice to see the trees and the soil, but the snow just changes it completely. It was all white and I feel like it was a time of reflection.” 

Some students came to the hike alone while others came in groups, but they were all friendly by the end of the hike.  

“I really like seeing the students who may show up and not know a single person returning to campus and giving hugs to the people they met,” says TJ Toepfer, the assistant director of Pacific Recreation who runs the program. “That’s what I get most out of Tiger Escapes. And being able to do a lot of things that I’ve never done in the past.” 

Neither Kumar nor Minervini are from California, and they say Tiger Escapes has helped them learn to appreciate how much you can do near Stockton, whether that’s visiting an aquarium or going whitewater rafting.  

“It’s a great chance to just explore out there and try new things,” Minervini says. “I wouldn’t have done paddleboarding if it wasn’t for Tiger Escapes. I didn’t know snowshoeing was a thing until Tiger Escapes.” 

On top of showing you new places and activities, the cost for each adventure also covers necessities for each trip.  

“They provide transportation, sometimes even meals, and they make it cheaper for students,” Minerveni says.  

Toepfer says that’s a priority for the program, keeping it affordable for students so they can experience new things. Costs can range from $15 for a hike to $125 for an overnight camping trip. That’s made Tiger Escapes pretty popular. 

“It’s like the field of dreams. If you build it, they’ll come,” he says. “So, now we’re trying to make sure we can support them and maybe take more of them on certain trips.” 

Wherever Tiger Escapes heads, Toepfer says they want new students to feel comfortable joining, even if it’s an activity they’ve never done before. On a previous whitewater rafting trip, he contracted with a company that led the group. That helped everyone feel safe, even the students who didn’t know how to swim.  

Kumal and Minervini still attend Tiger Escapes but say that they’ve also learned how to  visit places on their own. Although Minervini didn’t know much about the Central Valley before coming to Stockton, she now tries to get out at least once a month to hike, see a national park or visit an amusement park. 

“Stockton is in the center of everything,” Kumal says. “You can go to Sacramento and that’s the Capitol right there. Our drive to San Francisco is an hour and 30 minutes. Maybe you can go to Santa Cruz. You can go to Big Sur, Yosemite, Mammoth Mountain and they’re so close, so nearby. I would recommend going to all of these places.” 

Pacific’s Center for Identity and Inclusion (CII) was created as part of the university’s ongoing DEI initiative to give all students a sense of belonging, especially students from overseas and the LGBTQ community. According to Mario Enriquez, director of the Center for Identity and Inclusion, it is a great place to learn about yourself as well as other communities. 

“The Center for Identity and Inclusion is a home away from home. It’s a place where students can come together with staff, faculty and alumni to really build coalitions, to understand our different identities, where we come from and really homing in on that and celebrate the rich diversity here at Pacific,” said Enriquez. 

The CII was created in 2022 and was originally called the multicultural center, CII’s leadership believed the space should be renamed to lean into student identity so that it can be a place for learning, not just about yourself but also your community. 

“I like coming because I get to learn many new things, and I like to make new connections,” said computer science major, Shounak Palnitkar ’25 

Students can bring creative ideas for activities, learn what’s happening outside of campus and become more involved in social justice and the Stockton community. Students can get involved or get help from staff any time they visit. 

“I enjoy coming here because it’s a welcoming place to study and just chill out and relax,” said health studies major, Lilamae Young ’25. “Team members that are part of it have given me great advice and they’ve helped support, like getting certain resources that I needed.” 

The CII is located on the lower floor of the McCaffrey Center and is home to El Centro, a space for Latinx students; the LGBTQ+ Resource Center; Asian, Pacific Islander and Desi Student Services; Black Student Services and a lactation lounge.  

The CII also offers a central lounge area for students to hang out and host meetings. A mural painted by local artist Alex Suelto, stretches across the main wall and serves as a visual representation of the center’s mission to foster an inclusive environment. The mural features a variety of birds from around the world symbolizing different cultures.  

“Whether you’re black, Latinx, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American and/or LGBTQ, there is a place for you on this campus,” said Enriquez. “We offer the opportunity to start a club, study, hang out, build community and really be a good advocate as a campus leader.” Enriquez believes the student-led activities at the center foster a sense of independence for each student.   

“We want to expose our students to what’s happening beyond our campus because that’s how you become more civically engaged,” he said. “I think that’s something that we really pride ourselves as a space to really build that coalition together.”  

There is a range of programs students can engage in throughout the year such as the Brotherhood Exchange for Men of Color and the Women’s Collective Group.  

The center also holds history heritage months, including Women’s History month in March, Black History month in February and Latinx history month in September. Everyone on campus is invited to celebrate. 

Learn more about the Center for Identity and Inclusion 

One of the benefits of studying at University of the Pacific is being enmeshed in a vibrant art scene. Across Stockton you can find formal institutions like the Haggin Museum and community-oriented spaces like Hatch Workshop. There are plenty of options to both appreciate art and create your own.  

You can also engage with local art without even leaving campus. Pacific’s Reynolds Gallery hosts exhibitions featuring work from a diverse array of artists, including Pacific students and staff. Music students play concerts, the library puts on multimedia exhibitions and some departments even invite local artists to conduct workshops.  

One of those artists is Eli Eberhardt, pictured below, who came to Pacific’s Center for Identity and Inclusion mid-November to teach students how to make zines. Zines, pronounced like the end of magazine, encompass a wide variety of self-published work. They can take many forms, but the most common is a single piece of paper, folded into a booklet. Inside you may find poetry, writing, hand-drawn art, collages and more.  

Surrounded by art supplies, Eberhardt walked attendees through the form’s history, from the Harlem Renaissance’s “little magazines” to the fanzines circulated by Star Trek devotees in the pre-internet age.  

“Now,” they said, “we see people making zines about Nicholas Cage.”  

A zine can be anything: a diary, a political or educational tract, art, fiction or a mix of everything. The important thing is that they’re easy to make, photocopy and distribute. It’s a low-cost way for communities to stay connected and learn from each other.   

“I like trading them like Pokémon cards,” Eberhardt said, holding up examples to show attendees. Several of them had a picture of the author on the back, accompanied by a short biography or social media handles.  

Some of the examples were light-hearted, filled with comics and drawings. Others split the mood, combining poetry and self-reflective writings. A few tackled heavier issues like mental health and social justice. 

“One of these is about Furbies and the other is about depression,” Eberhardt joked, sorting through a pile of zines. “They’re both wholesome, though.” 

Eberhardt is a Stockton native whose work in poetry, zines and visual art touches on topics like childhood trauma, mental health stigma and community advocacy. They’re the founder of 209 Poets, dedicated to spreading the work of local artists. They also manage everything zine-related for the nonprofit Tuleberg Press, where they facilitate a class on the subject twice a month in downtown Stockton.  

Going forward, they hope to expand access to zines by setting up a way for the Central Valley community to mass-produce them. They also want to make an online archive of local zines to improve accessibility. 

“There are a lot of disabled people who can’t leave their homes,” Eberhardt said. “This way they can still read them.” 

After showing off example zines, Eberhardt began to walk attendees through making a simple zine. It’s a quick process, although it takes a little bit of practice to fold and cut a piece of paper correctly.  

Very quickly, each student took it in their own direction. Some drew, others cut up magazines to make collages. One pair even ended up engrossed in old copies of National Geographic. As they worked, students and staff had a wide-ranging conversation about the state of art in the Central Valley.  

By the end of the workshop, most students were only partly done. The CII staff and Eberhardt agreed: They needed to plan another one, angling to bring the workshop back in the spring.  

The center’s staff and student workers already run regular art events, inviting attendees to paint, craft and make pinch pots. On top of that, Program Specialists Yvette Quintana and Missy Rae Magdalera said the zine-making workshop is part of a broader effort to invite the local art community onto campus. Their hope is to help Pacific students build bridges with Stockton’s artists and the community as a whole.  

Pacific also has student-run clubs focusing on arts like poetry, weaving, calligraphy and ceramics. For the time being, there isn’t one focused on making zines. As Eberhardt points out, though, distributing your zines can be a great way to build that community as people find them. Ultimately, you get to decide why you want to make zines.  

“The cool thing is that you can share it or not,” Eberhardt said. “You decide what happens to it.” 

There are plenty of reasons to head down to the Alex G. Spanos Center and watch the Pacific men’s basketball team play: to see the Tigers themselves, of course, but you can also listen to the Pep Band play their hearts out, enjoy concession stand classics and even take pictures with Powercat as the mascot roams the stands.  

The Tigers’ home opener on Nov. 5 had all that – plus the excitement of starting a new basketball season. You can start having fun way before the game, too.: Pplenty of people met up with friends beforehand to make signs and don spirit gear. Pacific also hosted a tailgate, which is a good spot to fuel up for the evening – though it’s important to leave room for pretzels and cheese dip during the game! 

All through the night, the Pep Band played a rotation of classic songs, including Abba and Survivor (“Eye of the Tiger” is a must when Powercat is around). The energy hit a pitch during the half-time show when Jessica K. Haas – America’s first female speed painter – took to the court to paint Pacific’s logo.  

You’ll have plenty more chances to check out Pacific’s Division I team play, which will be especially exciting once they start playing West Coast Conference games in late December.  

If you want to check out other sports, you’re in luck – Pacific has 17 different sports programs running throughout the academic year. That means you’ll have access to men and women’s sports including water polo, tennis, soccer, softball and volleyball. As a student, you can attend these games for free – and be sure to keep an eye out for tailgates, giveaways and even fireworks. 

Living with a roommate can be a great way to make a new friend and learn about different perspectives, but it can also be challenging if you don’t know how to get along. You may arrive at your residential hall your first year expecting your roommate to be your new best friend, but that is not always how it works out. However, there are plenty of strategies for getting along with your new roommate at Pacific.  

It all starts with the roommate agreement. In this agreement you each outline your standards for living and come to a compromise on how things should be run in your dorm. 

“Roommate agreements serve as a foundation for expectations when living together and cover everything from nighttime routines to expectations over what can and can’t be shared,” said John Larson, assistant director of Housing Guest and Conference Services. 

Sometimes the roommate agreement isn’t enough to prevent disagreements, though. Here are tips for handling some of the growing pains that may come with adjusting to your roommate at Pacific. 

Understanding different living standards 

Recognize that the two of you likely come from different backgrounds.  

“When people share a space for the first time, they often overlook the fact that their roommates grew up in different households with completely different rules and expectations,” Larson said. “Chances are, you are also doing something that is strange or possibly annoying to them. Schedule a time to have a conversation about living together.” 

Your perceptions of what is “clean” may vary, you may have conflicting schedules and bedtimes or one of you may be more introverted than the other. 

“It’s important to approach these situations with empathy and patience. Engaging in open conversations about each person’s expectations and habits can help bridge these gaps,” said JonJon Junpradub, director of Residential Life. 

Communication is key 

When it comes to rising issues, bottling up feelings rather than talking about them can cause conflict to reach a boiling point.  

“Clear communication and a considerate approach lay the foundation for a smoother living environment. Sometimes, we overlook this first step, but it’s important to remember,” said  Junpradub. 

Settling disputes between yourselves is a good first step, but if that doesn’t work, you may need to involve your RA.  

Talk to your RA 

RAs serve as a valuable resource for resolving roommate disputes and addressing housing-related concerns, which ensures a safe and positive on-campus living experience. You can schedule meetings with them to go over issues you need to address. 

“RAs are trained on resolving roommate conflicts and can provide tips for having a conversation about your issue. Be sure to reach out to your RA about the agreements and know that it is okay for your RA to help mediate the conversation,” said Larson. 

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See more about what’s it like to live at Pacific

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