On Saturday, March 14, 2026, the Pedrozzi Young Scholars (PYS) visited the campus of University of California, Merced for an exciting college tour and learning experience. The group included 20 Pedrozzi Young Scholars, 20 parents, 9 siblings, and 2 Pedrozzi staff members. Forty participants traveled together by bus, while four families drove in private vehicles to meet the group on campus.
It was a beautiful day to explore the university. As the newest campus in the University of California system—celebrating its 21st year—UC Merced provided a welcoming and modern environment for students and families to experience.
The visit began at the campus Welcome Center, where the Pedrozzi group split into two groups for a guided campus tour. During the tour, families learned that while it is highly recommended for first-year students to live on campus, it is not required. One highlight of the tour was the Sustainability Research & Engineering building, where students were especially impressed by the hands-on opportunities available in the Maker Space.
The group also visited the campus library, where tour guides explained the variety of study spaces designed to fit different learning styles. The lower floors offer more collaborative and lively environments, while the third and fourth floors provide quieter areas for focused study.
Another stop included the campus gym and Wellness Center, which reassured many families about the support available for students’ health and well-being. Tour guides also emphasized campus safety, noting that while UC Merced is an open campus, it maintains a very secure environment.
The tour concluded at the Student First Center with a student ambassador panel and Q&A session. Pedrozzi Young Scholars and their families heard firsthand about student life and support services at UC Merced. Panelists shared that it is completely normal for students to feel nervous when starting college, and they emphasized that even transfer students arriving as juniors receive strong support as they adjust to campus life. Student ambassadors also encouraged younger scholars to stay organized, ask questions, and begin building the habits that will help them succeed after high school.
The visit wrapped up with lunch at the Pavilion dining hall, where everyone enjoyed a diverse buffet and had time to reflect on the day’s experience.
The trip provided Pedrozzi Young Scholars and their families with valuable insight into college life and the many opportunities available within the UC system.
