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Your Berkeley Connect in Social Welfare Experience
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Small‑group discussions — Recent topics have included: a) Social welfare and social justice, b) Self‑care and self‑compassion, c) Exploring campus resources, and d) Getting into graduate school.
- Academic exploration — Creates space to talk about what Social Work and Social Welfare are, how students can engage with complex social issues, and how to connect personal interests with the School of Social Welfare and the broader campus community.
- Career pathways — Features alumni events highlighting the wide range of professions Social Welfare students pursue in social work, public health, community organizing, policy, education, and nonprofit leadership.
- Faculty conversations — Offers sessions where professors discuss their research, how they approach social problems, and how scholarship and practice intersect in the pursuit of social justice.
- Field trips & special events — Includes programs such as the Showcase of Student‑Led Organizations, Get to Know the Faculty, and guided tours of the Berkeley Art Museum.
Graduate Mentor Role
At the heart of Berkeley Connect is the relationship between you and your mentor. They:
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Build community by leading small, discussion‑based sessions
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Provide one‑on‑one support with personalized guidance and resources
- Demystify the major by sharing skills, strategies, and tips on research and grad school
About Your Graduate Mentor
Laura Pathak
I’m a PhD student in Social Welfare. As a "Triple Bear" who did my undergraduate and master’s degrees here, Cal is truly home! My research focuses on AI ethics and policy, specifically studying how digital technologies impact the modern social safety net and how we can protect data privacy and agency for vulnerable communities. As a mentor, I love discussions about demystifying the research process, applying to graduate school, navigating life at Cal, balancing personal and academic commitments, and exploring interdisciplinary fields. One thing I wish I knew as an undergrad is that your path doesn't have to be linear—exploration is part of the journey! Outside of academia, I'm busy managing life with my three kids, exploring local hiking trails, and trying out new recipes.
Faculty Director
Jill Duerr Berrick
Berkeley Connect Faculty Director, Social Welfare
Distinguished Professor; Zellerbach Family Foundation Professor of Social Welfare
Research Interests