Division of Biological Sciences

Biological Sciences Undergraduate Student Advisory Council (USAC) 

The USAC is charged to advise the Associate Dean for Education on issues related to undergraduate education, including but not limited to courses, curriculum, instruction, student involvement opportunities, research opportunities and student programs.  Issues will be identified by either Division of Biological Sciences (DoBS) administration or by student members of USAC.

Overview

  • represent students in the Biological Sciences
  • provide a forum for communication and recommendation between the students and the Division of Biological Sciences concerning problems and issues which are important to the students in the DoBS

Why Become a USAC Member

  • Get to know administrators, staff and faculty in the DoBS
  • Networking opportunities
  • Be the first to learn about new developments in the DoBS
  • Voice concerns of fellow students
  • Gain leadership experience
  • Improve public speaking skill
  • Get involved

Composition

Composed of a group of - goal oriented, dynamic and responsible Biology undergraduate student leaders who wish to make a difference by helping to  shape the educational experience of Biology undergraduates and understand the complexity of  DoBS.   Council should have representation  from all levels , including students who joined UCSD as transfer students.

The Council is composed of twelve undergraduate biology majors.  The term of service is two years with two student members from each grade level.  If circumstances prevent service of two years, a nominee will be sought to complete the remainder of that term.

  • Associate Dean for Education ex officio
  • USIS Staff ex officio
  • BSSA President ex officio
  • SQ Editor ex officio
  • Ten DoBS majors

Becoming a USAC Member/Qualifications

  • Currently enrolled at UCSD as a Biology major
  • Enrolled in at least three courses (by the begining of fall quarter)
  • Be in good academic standing
  • Have an interest in the DoBS academic and student life and a passion for improving the quality of undergraduate education in the DoBS
  • Comfortable in actively voicing and respectfully listening to a variety of opinions in a group setting
  • Able to respect the confidential nature of some topics the council may discuss and offer thoughtful advice on a variety of sensitive topics
  • Students must be available to attend monthly meetings, as well as to investigate issues and topics outside of the regularly scheduled meeting.
  • Ability to communicate complex educational and administrative issue to fellow students and other members of the on - and off-campus community
  Expectations
  • responsible for understanding the structure of the DoBS and the USAC
  • prepare for meetings and be aware of dates
  • if unable to attend, adequately brief your replacement so they are prepared for the meeting
  • provide any specific agenda item at least a week in advance so the topic can be added to the agenda
  • bring calendars, pens/paper to all meetings
  • represent DoBS at public events
  • be a liaison to fellow students

    Application Instructions and Deadline

    NOW OPEN!  We are currently recruiting for student members and welcom participation from all biology students.  Interested students should submit an application through the online system between August 1st-19th. 

    USAC Application https://dbsportal.ucsd.edu/protectedinfo/sacapp

    The application includes:

    • A brief (250 word) statement explaining why you want to serve on USAC and what unique perspective you think you would bring
    • A list of relevant activities, recognition, and achievements and/or a resume that can be uploaded
    • All members must be available to meet the first Friday of every month from October-June.  Adjustments will be made for holidays, finals week and school breaks.  Students are expected to attend all meetings.  If you can't meet, please do not submit an application.
    • A mandatory orientation meeting will be held on Friday, September 30th from 10-11am.

    Applications can be saved and/or changed until the application window closes on August 19th.  All applications will be reviewed by current USAC members.  If you wish to retract your application, send an email to biousac-l@ucsd.edu.  All applicants will be notified by the end of week 1 of fall quarter.