(Updated Jan. 24, 2025)

Making the decision of where to attend college is a tough and important one. We want to make it easier on you! Here are answers to some of the questions we know you’re wondering about. 

How do I pay for Pacific?

Attending college or university can be more affordable than you think. Most students who attend Pacific receive financial aid. If you submitted a FAFSA and added University of the Pacific, you are automatically considered for grants (aid you don’t have to pay back). If you qualify, they will be listed on your financial aid offer letter.  

If you haven’t submitted your FAFSA, it’s not too late! Apply at the Federal Student Aid website and be sure to add Pacific — our school code is 001329. Apply even if you think you won’t qualify — you might be surprised!  

When you applied to Pacific, you were automatically considered for a merit award, which is like a grant in that you don’t have to pay it back. These are based on academic achievement. If you qualify for work-study, it also will be listed on your financial aid offer letter. Work-study jobs not only provide income, but you’ll gain experience and make connections! You can find work-study jobs using Handshake, Pacific’s online job board.  

You might also consider taking out a student loan but be sure to research the differences between federal and private loans. Students can qualify for federal loans regardless of income that was listed on the FAFSA and generally have better terms. There is also a federal loan option called the Parent PLUS loan your parents can consider borrowing as well if they are looking for some additional flexibility in paying for your costs. 

Once you’ve started attending Pacific, be sure to work with your academic advisor, who will help you plan your degree track so you can finish in the least amount of time possible (and thus pay less for college), if that’s what you desire.  

For more information about the differences between grants, work-study and loans, and more financial aid resources, visit Pacific’s financial aid webpage. Get in touch with a financial aid counselor if you have any questions (no appointment necessary!) at 209-946-2421 or financialaid@pacific.edu. 

What kind of jobs and internships can help me get some extra spending money?

Many students choose to work part-time while attending Pacific. The university’s Career Resource Center can help you find jobs and paid internships, Pacific’s online job and opportunity board, or you can search for yourself on Handshake. It’s easy and common for students to find work on campus – get your resume drafted up and make an appointment at Career Services to get started! 

Is the food actually good? 

Without exaggeration, the food on Pacific’s campus is gourmet. In cooperation with our food service provider, Bon Appetit, we strive to provide healthy, delicious meals for every diet using only the freshest of ingredients.  

We’ve also ensured all our chicken is halal, except for chicken tenders. At our Marketplace, get made-to-order omelets, deli sandwiches, customized pasta, a variety vegan options and, of course, our famous breakfast burritos and more. The E.A.T. Truck on South Campus offers quick bites for breakfast and lunch. For a late-night bite, head over to The Lair – we recommend the chicken tenders or Impossible Burger! 

Get a behind-the scenes look at how Pacific meals are made. 

Are the dorms nice? 

So, you’ll be living on campus and are worried about living in the residence halls. We get it. Pacific has plenty of housing options, including Residential Learning Communities! Since you’re a new student, you’ll most likely live in Grace Covell Hall or The Quad Communities — both have spacious rooms, communal lounges and well-maintained facilities.   

You can see more about our residence halls on our Instagram Highlight: Housing. Follow @pacificrlh for more updates regarding housing and learn more about housing options and deadlines at Pacific’s Residential Life & Housing page.  

Want to see what a student’s room really looks like? Check out our video. 

I’m a first-generation college student. What do I need to know about college? 

Congratulations! The Pacific community has a large population of first-generation college students, and we think that makes us special. Though it can be intimidating, know you’re not alone.  

Our campus provides resources specifically for first-generation students, like First Generation Friday events, support groups at Counseling and Psychological Services and student organizations dedicated to cultural and academic support.  

We also have other academic assistance services, like the Student Academic Support Services Hub, free academic tutoring and career services. And don’t forget that your faculty adviser is there to make sure you graduate and that you are finding and pursuing your passions, so never hesitate to ask for help!  

What are the campus vibes? 

The Pacific campus is notoriously friendly! In fact, it’s nearly impossible to walk across our campus and not see a friend, classmate, professor or staff member you love. Though our faculty and staff on campus are certainly the kindest and most dedicated people you’ll find at any college, Pacific students truly make our campus a community of love and acceptance. You won’t be competing against your classmates; you’ll be working alongside them, supporting each other through some of those tough college courses.  

So, a word of advice: If you don’t want to chat with a dozen friendly faces on your way to class, invest in some headphones and a hoodie. 

What can you do around campus? 

The Pacific campus itself has been nicknamed the “Ivy of the West” because its brick-and-ivy aesthetic is reminiscent of your typical East Coast school. On campus, we also have massive, gorgeous trees that may take your breath away on a sunny morning. Muir Grove sits in the center of campus and gives us a glimpse of that California beauty.  

You can also enjoy plenty of campus events held year-round like Tigerlands which is packed full of games, food and music. We also hold a Blockparty at the start of every semester to welcome first-years. You’ll find no shortage of athletic events either, with watch parties even held in the Lair for games away from home. 

Can and should I bring my car? 

You can bring your vehicle, and you will need to purchase a parking permit. If you don’t bring your car, you can still explore our city! Stockton’s public transportation is nationally ranked and one of the first all-electric fleets in California.  

Want to explore outside of Stockton? You can take trains to the Bay Area and Sacramento. Pacific also offers a Zipcar program at discounted rates. The Pacific Shuttle van can also take you to spots around Stockton at no cost.  

What’s Stockton like? 

Stockton is very flat, which makes it great for cycling – like, really, we hosted a stop on the Amgen Tour of California! We’re located among vast farmlands and surrounded by multiple waterways with several marinas just a short drive from the campus. We’re a short drive from mountains and snow, beaches and several forests.  

Just a few minutes of walking or driving off the Stockton campus, there are restaurants, cafes and entertainment hubs. Grab sushi or a burger on the Miracle Mile and stay for live music. Hop to downtown Stockton for a movie or a Stockton Kings basketball game; load up on fresh produce at one of our several farmers markets and flea markets; attend the theatre or the symphony; shop at Lincoln Center’s trendy boutiques or float on a paddle board in one of the marinas.  

Check out Visit Stockton to explore our beautiful city! 

I’ve heard Stockton is dangerous. Is that true?

Stockton is a large city, about the same population as Cincinnati and Orlando, and of course, it has big-city problems. But Pacific has been proactive about keeping the campus very safe. And, like any other city, if you’re smart about where you go and when, you can have a great time exploring the diversity of restaurants and entertainment available in Stockton. 

Pacific’s crime statistics are among the lowest of colleges in our region. Only two private colleges in California have their own police force, and Pacific is one of them. We also work closely with the local police to ensure that each of our three campuses is a safe place. Additionally, in Stockton and Sacramento, our Public Safety Officers can provide an escort for students and staff members to and from campus parking lots, offices and campus residences. 

What should people know about Stockton? 

Stockton is an inland port with a historic waterfront, so we benefit from the intersection of major freeways, rivers and railroads. Take I-5 all the way up to Portland, Oregon, or all the way down to Los Angeles. The Stockton Metropolitan Airport can also take you down to Southern California for as little as $100.   

We get 257 days of sunshine, temperatures up to 110 degrees in the summer and little humidity. So, bring sunscreen! In the winter you can expect some rainy days and wind, but nothing an umbrella can’t handle. Seriously, you’re going to love our city. 

What do people from outside of CA need to know?

If you’re not familiar with the area, California is shaped like a big question mark. With such a geographically large and diverse state, it’s hard to generalize about what you need to prepare for. University of the Pacific is a short drive from some amazing spots in Northern California.  

• Sacramento (California’s capital) – about 45 minutes  
• San Francisco — about 1.5 hrs  
• Napa Valley — about 1.5 hrs 
• Yosemite National Park — about 2 hrs 
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk — about 2.5 hrs 
• Monterey Bay Aquarium — about 2.5 hrs 
• Lake Tahoe — about 2.5 hrs 
• Avenue of the Giants (giant sequoias) — just under 5 hrs 

If you want to take a longer trip down south, we’re not too far!  

• Hollywood, Los Angeles 334 miles — about 5 hrs 
• Disneyland Park, Anaheim — 6 hrs 
• Death Valley National Park — 6-7 hrs  

Find out more at visitcalifornia.com 

Updated May 8, 2024

Got your housing and roommate assignment? Now is the time to get in touch with your roommate and get to know them before moving into your residential hall in August. If you’re hung up on how to start that initial convo, don’t worry—we’ve got your back!  

Here are some tips on how to reach out and questions to ask your roommate. And if you’re really stuck, we’ve even included an email template for you to copy, paste and customize. You’re welcome.   

Start with a (short and sweet) email

When you open your housing portal, you’ll receive your roommate’s Pacific email address, so make that your initial form of communication.  

Briefly introduce yourself by sharing your major, your hometown and what you like to do for fun. If you want to get a bit more personal, share what music you’re into or what TV shows you’re bringing this summer.   

Don’t worry about getting into the nitty gritty details of your habits and sleeping schedule just yet. After you arrive on campus, your RA (resident assistant) will work with you and your roommate to outline boundaries and expectations and develop a roommate agreement.   

Say what you’re bringing 

Perhaps the most important topic to square away is what each of you will bring to your room. You’ll only need one microwave or refrigerator, so it’s a good idea to coordinate as soon as possible.   

You can initiate the conversation by volunteering to bring something or you can suggest setting up a phone call to plan what you’ll each  bring. 

Here are some tips for packing for life in the dorms. 

Ask them questions 

A great way to encourage open communication with your roommate and keep the conversation going is to ask them questions like these:  

• Try asking about their hobbies 
• What are they most excited for once school starts?  
• Do they have any fun summer plans? 
• What shows do they enjoy watching or books have they enjoyed reading?    

Provide your contact info 

Before signing your email, let your roommate know the best way to stay in touch with you. Consider giving them your cell phone number so you can text about room supplies or any questions you might have. You can also give out your social media handles to stay in touch over the summer.  

Try not to give into the urge to stalk your roommate’s social accounts (but, if you can’t resist, just remember not to base your opinion on them solely on their Instagram feed)!

Considering meeting up face-to-face 

Getting to know your new roommate over the summer can help you feel more comfortable with each other when school starts. Messaging online is a great start but meeting up in person for coffee or lunch is even better. Or, if you live too far from each other to do that, set up a Zoom or FaceTime chat. You’re likely having a lot of the same thoughts and questions about starting college, so you’ll have plenty to talk about! 

Just be yourself 

Cheesy, we know, but seriously—just be authentic and kind and you’ll make a great first impression. If you’re nervous, chances are your roommate is just as stressed as you are and will be glad you made the first move.  

Email template

If you’re still not sure how to phrase things, we’ve put together a short template for you—just don’t forget to fill in the blanks before sending! 

Hi (roommate name), 

My name is (your name). I just checked my housing assignment from Pacific and it looks like we’ll be roommates for the next school year!  

Here’s a bit about me: I’m a (your major) major from (your hometown). In my free time, I love listening to (your favorite music) and (an activity you enjoy) with my friends. What are some of your hobbies?  

My number is (your phone number). Feel free to text me so we can get to know each other and coordinate on who is bringing what for the dorm. I’d also love to get together for coffee or something! 

Looking forward to meeting you, 

(your name)  

P.S. Feel free to follow me on Instagram and TikTok! My handles are (your handles).  

If you have any questions about living on campus, on campus, reach out to our Residential Life and Housing team at iamhome@pacific.edu or 209.946.2331. And don’t forget to sign your housing agreement! 

Don’t forget to add your school or college!

Stockton accounts you should also follow:

Who doesn’t love a bargain? Here’s a list of stuff Pacific provides for free (or almost free).

New York Times Digital Subscription

Pacific students on the Sacramento, Stockton and San Francisco campuses now have access to a free digital subscription to The New York Times. In November 2019, ASuop senators representing students from across the Stockton campus approved funding from the ASuop budget for a school-wide subscription. 

The subscription offers access to both the newspaper’s website and The New York Times app. It also includes unlimited access to international and domestic news as well as opinion articles,  podcasts and the newspaper’s vast archives. The subscription is offered in numerous languages, making it accessible to anyone.

“With the rising amount of fake news and declining support for the printed newspaper it is imperative now, more than ever that students have 24/7 access to a reliable news source,” said Grant Gagaza, Eberhardt School of Business senator and chair of the Senate’s New York Times ad-hoc committee. 

The New York Times offers campus-wide packages to universities across the United States. The ASuop senators felt that such a partnership was important because one of the most vital factors of our studies as students is our alertness to current events and that if students had to pay for access to news, it would defeat the purpose of the university’s academic environment.

Set up your account: New York Times

Other Free Resources

Alongside the subscription to The New York Times, Pacific has other resources available to its students, which are more valuable than ever during this period of remote learning. 

TIGER TV

Brought to you by the Associated Students of University of the Pacific, Tiger TV is a streaming platform that offers hundreds of movies, ranging from heart-warming romance to pulse-pounding adventure. You can find new titles in the collection each month.

Accessing Tiger TV is easy. Unlike other services, you don’t need an account to use it. As long as you’re connected to PacificNet wifi, you can access the service and watch a film from any device.

Check out the collection here: Tiger TV

KANOPY

Kanopy is an on-demand video streaming platform that students can use to stream thousands of films and documentaries across various genres. It can be accessed through the university library’s website, under databases. 

When you click on Kanopy, you will be redirected to its website with access through Pacific. You will then be asked to create an account using your Pacific email. After that, you will have free access to all that the platform has to offer. 

Learn more: Kanopy

AMAZON PRIME DISCOUNT

Amazon offers reduced Prime memberships to university students. As a student, you have a free six-month trial, after which you pay a $59 annual fee, versus the regular $119 fee. Students are able to access this benefit with their university email for up to four years. 

Set up your reduced membership: Amazon Prime

RESEARCH DATABASES

The university also offers free access to the largest research databases in the world, JSTOR. It is free through the university and can easily be accessed through the library’s homepage. When you enter your name and student ID, you will be redirected to the JSTOR homepage. 

Access database here: JSTOR

MICROSOFT

Pacific students also have free access to Microsoft Office 365, which includes Word, PowerPoint and Excel. You can download the Microsoft package on up to five computers and five mobile devices. Accessing this download is simple.

Download your package: Microsoft

Career Services For Life

Pacific’s Academic Advising and Career Services Center offers free career services to its students which include cover letter and resume building, interviews as well as a career closet for professional attire. 

Students can make virtual appointments with career advisers if they would like help building a strong resume for job applications and graduate school. 

The center also offers assessments that can help you focus your passions into a possible career path, as well as mock interviews that can give you an upper hand in the competitive job market.