The University of California, Merced, located in California's sun-drenched Central Valley, is a dynamic and innovative institution within the prestigious UC system. Established in 2005, it holds the distinction of being the newest campus, yet it has quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to sustainability, with all campus buildings achieving environmental certification—a pioneering feat among American universities 1. Spanning 815 acres, UC Merced's modern campus is a hub for cutting-edge research in fields such as stem cells, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy 2.

Offering a diverse range of programs across three schools—Engineering, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts—UC Merced caters to nearly 9,100 students with 60 undergraduate majors and 18 graduate programs 2. The university's location provides students with easy access to both the bustling city of San Francisco and the stunning natural landscapes of Yosemite National Park, delivering a unique blend of urban and natural experiences 3. Celebrated for its dedication to social mobility and diversity, UC Merced serves a significant percentage of students from underrepresented and low-income backgrounds, reflecting its mission to widen access to higher education 8. This vibrant academic community is not only dedicated to scholarly advancement but is also making significant contributions to regional and global challenges through impactful research initiatives 2.