Established in the English Department in 2010 and extended campuswide in 2014, Berkeley Connect has consistently focused on strengthening undergraduate belonging and enhancing the professional development of its graduate students.
By The Numbers
-
Over 22,000 undergraduates have enrolled in Berkeley Connect since its launch.
-
More than 350 graduate students have served as Berkeley Connect Fellows.
-
In the most recent survey, 93% of undergraduates reported being satisfied with their experience.
-
According to the latest fellow survey, 93% of graduate fellows would recommend the fellowship.
Berkeley Connect promotes belonging.
“Before enrolling in Berkeley Connect,” one student reflects, “I felt like a number, a nobody. Berkeley Connect really helped me…and assured me that my voice and my ideas were worthwhile.”
Berkeley Connect eases navigation.
A transfer student, who identifies as first-generation and Mexican-American, noted that through Berkeley Connect, they “learned about research opportunities and met graduate students and mentors who have had a significant impact on [their] academic trajectory.”
Berkeley Connect builds relationships.
One fellow felt they formed a “deeper connection” with the students “than in a normal GSI role.” Another fellow had an undergraduate “break down in tears” because they could talk with “a mentor who understood them.”
Belonging and Inclusion
Belonging is at the heart of Berkeley Connect. Our program serves a broad cross‑section of undergraduates, including many students who have been historically underserved in higher education. Across the last two semesters, 29% of participants identified as an underrepresented minority, and 38% identified as first‑generation.
Transfer students are also a core part of our community. Each fall, they represent about 40% of Berkeley Connect enrollment, consistently outpacing their share of the overall undergraduate population.
In 2024, Berkeley Connect marked its 10‑year anniversary. Explore the glide show to revisit the program’s first decade.