Seize Your Superpower
Out of state students bring a unique perspective and bold spirit to UCSB by choosing to pursue their education far from home. By stepping outside of your comfort zone, you have already demonstrated self-reliance, autonomy, and flexibility—qualities that are highly valued by employers and graduate programs alike.
As an out of state student, you have access to resources that help you discover career options, gain experience through jobs and internships, get hired for meaningful opportunities, and explore graduate school to continue your academic journey after UCSB.
Career Services is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are planning to launch your career in California, return to your home state, or explore opportunities elsewhere, we are committed to helping you clarify your goals and take action toward success.
Career Services is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are planning to launch your career in California, return to your home state, or explore opportunities elsewhere, we are committed to helping you clarify your goals and take action toward success.
As an out-state student, here are three items you can quickly immerse yourself during your academic journey at UCSB:
- No wait and drop by anytime to the Career Resource Room - no appointment needed to see a career counselor to help with your career goals!
- Explore Handshake and look for an internship, on-campus, part-time or full-time job in California or within proximity to your hometown!
- Check out our calendar featuring career workshops and events this quarter to help prepare you to be career ready!
Key Campus Resources @ UCSB
Provided by Career Services.
Discover Options: Out of State Students
For complete information on assessing yourself, choosing majors, and exploring careers, review our starter tips to Discover Options in all careers as well as the specialized tips on this page.
Adjusting to Life at UCSB
Your acceptance into UCSB reflects your accomplishment of joining one of the most respected universities in the nation. As an out of state student, you are embarking on a journey that goes beyond academics. You are also adapting to a new environment, community, and lifestyle far from home. This unique experience offers you the chance to explore a wide range of opportunities, but we also recognize that it can feel overwhelming to make important academic and career decisions while adjusting to a new place.
At the beginning of your UCSB journey, you may feel a strong desire to choose a major or career direction quickly, especially when balancing the expectations of family and the investment of relocating to attend college. However, it is natural not to have everything figured out right away. Exploring your options with an open mind will allow you to discover possibilities you may not have considered before.
Learn More
If you are unsure about your major and career direction, check out our Self-Assessment page to expand your awareness of your strengths, interests, and values. Tools like FOCUS® 2 and Strong Interest Inventory can help you identify UCSB majors and careers that align with who you are and where you hope to go after graduation.
Considering Major and Career Options
As an out of state student, one of the best things you can do is take advantage of UCSB’s wide array of academic offerings. From General Education classes to Discovery Seminars, these courses allow you to test out new interests, engage with faculty, and gain perspective about potential career paths. Pay attention to the subjects that energize you. Your enthusiasm for learning in these areas can be an important indicator of a good academic and career fit.
Learn More
If you are unsure about your major and career direction, check out our Self-Assessment page to expand your awareness of your strengths, interests, and values. Tools like FOCUS® 2 and Strong Interest Inventory can help you identify UCSB majors and careers that align with who you are and where you hope to go after graduation.
Because you are studying away from your home state, keep in mind that some career paths—such as law, education, or healthcare—may have state-specific requirements. If you are considering one of these fields, start researching early to understand licensing or certification processes in both California and your home state.
Remember, your choice of major does not lock you into one career forever. The skills you gain at UCSB (ex: critical thinking, communication, problem-solving) are highly transferable across industries. Stay curious and flexible as you explore the options available to you.
At UCSB, you are part of a community that values exploration, growth, and support. Whether you already have a clear idea of your career path or you are still discovering where your passions lead, Career Services is here to help you navigate your options and succeed in both your academic and professional journey.
Learn More
If you are interested in adjusting smoothly to UCSB and building a sense of community, explore programs like UCSB’s Gaucho Network, which can be especially helpful for students who are new to California.
