First-Year Summer Information
First-Year Information
Don’t Miss Out! Connect with LARES at UIC Orientation!
Excited to start your UIC journey?
We are too and we look forward to welcoming you to campus this fall!
Kick things off by joining Spark Connections con LARES—a special session held during your UIC Orientation program just for you. This is a great opportunity to meet the LARES team and learn how we can support your success at UIC and beyond.
Make the most of your orientation experience by taking advantage of the following opportunities:
First Year Info
Discover how LARES can support your college journey—starting at orientation!
Join us for Spark Connections con LARES, a special session offered during your in-person UIC Orientation. This is your chance to connect with the LARES team, learn about our services, and begin building your community at UIC.
What You’ll Gain:
- Academic Success Insights
Learn how LARES can support your goals from your first semester to graduation. - Personalized Guidance
Meet your LARES Academic Advisor and get answers to your questions—whether it’s about academics, financial aid, or student life. - Build Your Community
Connect with fellow Latinx students and our LARES Student Ambassadors—your future support system on campus. - Win UIC Swag!
Attend for a chance to win exclusive giveaways from the UIC Bookstore!
Make sure to attend your UIC Orientation and join us at Spark Connections con LARES!
When: During your New Student Orientation
We look forward to seeing you there!
Check our last year’s Spark Connections con LARES: Instagram
Attend a LARES Peer Connections event this summer!
Connect. Learn. Get Involved.
Join us this summer for a LARES Peer Connections event—designed to help you meet fellow incoming students and current UIC peers before the semester begins!
This is a great opportunity to:
- Connect with other new students and build your UIC network
- Hear from current UIC students about their experiences
- Learn about campus resources, student organizations, and ways to get involved
When: Event details will be announced in June. Stay tuned!
Empower Yourself & Make a Difference through the LARES Summer Institute!
Are you ready to lead? The LARES Summer Institute is a free, one-week program designed for incoming UIC students who want to grow as leaders and make a positive impact on the Latinx community.
Program Details-
Dates: August 11–15, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: UIC campus
Cost: Free (Lunch included!)
Through workshops, discussions, and community building, you’ll develop key leadership skills and connect with peers who share your passion for making a difference.
Application Deadline: July 27, 2025
Learn more & Apply: LARES Summer Institute
Questions? Contact Dr. Mitzi Ramos at mramos8@uic.edu
Explore Your Path. Prepare for Success. LARES Summer College Session.
Ready to take the next step in your academic journey? Join us for the LARES Summer College Session—a dynamic half-day seminar designed to help you explore academic and career options while building the skills to thrive at UIC.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: UIC Campus
Cost: Free (Lunch included!)
What You’ll Learn:
- How to navigate UIC’s academic catalog
- How to use the degree audit tool for major and course planning
- Tips for exploring a wide range of career options using UIC’s online resources
- Insights from LARES staff and current students
Bonus:
Wrap up the day with a fun social activity and free lunch – come hungry, curious, and ready to connect!
Questions? Contact Victor Brito at vbrito@uic.edu
Join the LARES Familia!
Ready to start your journey with a supportive community behind you? Fill out our quick sign-up form and become part of the LARES familia today!
Why Join This Summer?
- Meet Your LARES Advisor
Get personalized academic and financial guidance to support your success. - Stay in the Loop
Be the first to hear about LARES scholarships, student programs, and events. - Find Your Community
Connect with fellow student scholars and future leaders who share your goals.