Hi everyone! My name is Paige Andersen (she/her) and I am one of the Psychology Undergraduate Advisors. I am a proud UC Santa Cruz alum (Stevenson College, Class of 2021) and it is truly my privilege and honor to give back to the university that has shaped me in so many ways. I have been an academic advisor for 4 years and this is my third academic year at UCSC in this role. As an advisor, my priority is always meeting students where they are and highlighting the complexity and nuances of the undergraduate journey. I learned very early on in my undergraduate career that I loved working with my fellow students through on campus jobs and other opportunities, which led me to eventually get a Master’s degree in Higher Education & Organizational Change. My MA thesis, “Queerness and Homelessness in Higher Education: A Critical Literature Review of College Campus ‘Support’ Systems for Students,” allowed me to highlight my passion for amplifying the voices of students navigating academics and difficult life circumstances, while processing my own coming out journey. I strive to create a welcoming office space that encourages students to ask questions, advocate for their personal academic and professional goals, and be themselves!
Recommended Resources:
I had some amazing opportunities during my time as a UCSC undergraduate student, which exposed me to several of our on campus resources. I served as a Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) Peer Educator and I also utilized CAPS mental health services personally. Students are human beings before students and mental health should always be a priority. I also had the incredible opportunity to teach Stevenson core as a third year student and I highly recommend utilizing writing support and tutoring services offered by the Writing Center and Learning Support Services (LSS). I set an unrealistic expectation for myself coming into college that I needed to figure everything out myself and I quickly learned that tutoring services are there for a reason. Once I attended my first tutoring session, I felt relieved and comforted to be surrounded by my fellow students that were also reaching out for help. Lastly, I want to highlight the Disability Resource Center (DRC) because of their dedication to serve students with wide ranges of disabilities. I am very open about the fact that I lived with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) since the age of fourteen. I reached out to the DRC in the summer of 2017 before my first year and set up my accommodations, which included extra test taking time and alternative testing spaces. It was empowering to know that there was a whole team of people dedicated to making sure I had everything I needed to thrive personally and academically.
Hobbies:
I absolutely love photography, so if I am not in the office you will probably find me on West Cliff snapping photos of all of the natural beauty that Santa Cruz has to offer. I also have a deep love and admiration for the ocean and I volunteer at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center biweekly. At home, I am an avid cook and I love to create my own recipes and meal prep for the work week. I am also a proud cat parent and I spend most days entertaining my beautiful and energetic kitty, Bindi.
Education:
BA, General Literature, University of California, Santa Cruz
BA, Education, Democracy, & Justice, University of California, Santa Cruz
MA, Higher Education & Organizational Change, University of California, Los Angeles
Hi! I’m Ryan and I’m an Academic Advisor with Psychology Undergraduate Advising. Before UCSC, I spent years working in television, and I came back as a transfer student to finish my degree in my 30s. That pivot shaped how I approach advising: life is adaptable, interests evolve, and there’s no single “right timeline.” I’m especially mindful of students who are juggling a lot, switching directions, returning after a break, or trying to make a big change, because I’ve been there.
I’m also here to help you make sense of all your requirements, talk through your options, and leave with a plan that actually feels doable. Whether you’re picking classes for next quarter or trying to figure out what direction you want to head long-term, we’ll sort it out together.
Resources and Shoutouts:
As a transfer student, STARRS (Services for Transfer Re-Entry and Resilient Scholars) was a game-changer for feeling connected and supported.
And if you’re looking for fun ways to feel more rooted on campus, I’m a big fan of the UCSC Community Boating Center and their sailing classes.I also love shouting out UCSC’s Tango Club “Tangroupe” for anyone who wants a welcoming community and a reason to try something new.
Hobbies:
Outside of work, I spend a lot of time with my kids, cheering them on at things like ballet, t-ball, and temple school, and finding little weekend adventures together. When I get solo recharge time, I’m usually reading comic books, painting, tending my garden, or getting a board game to the table with the adults.
Education & Awards:
BA, Psychology, University of California, Santa Cruz
Home Town Media Award for Diversity Programming – Queer Youth Leadership Awards 2012
Wave Award for Political Programing: California Forward 2012
Wave Award for Sports Programming: CTV Sports Presents 2011
Advising Community Recognition for Creativity & Innovation: 2025
Hi! I’m a 2022 UCSC Alumni (Oakes affiliate) of the Psychology program. I enjoy supporting students as they navigate their academic paths and plan for what comes next. I am passionate about helping students feel informed, supported, and confident in their decision-making, and I strive to create a welcoming space where students feel comfortable asking questions and exploring their goals.
Recommended Resources:
During my time as a student at UCSC, I utilized the Cowell Coffee Shop (a non-transactional cafe located near the Cowell/Stevenson Dining Hall), the Redwood Free Market (a no-limits pantry ensuring student success and destigmatizing food insecurity), and Learning Support Services (provides undergraduate students inclusive tutoring sessions facilitated by peers).
Hobbies:
I enjoy camping/backpacking, going to the beach, embroidering, listening to podcasts, reading (one of my favorite authors is Haruki Murakami), and watching comedy specials, football, and Jeopardy!
Education:
BA, Psychology, University of California, Santa Cruz