student bowling

Improve Your English by Getting Involved

UC Davis has a wide variety of options for you to get involved and experience all that UC Davis and Northern California have to offer. For International Programs students, you can enjoy activities before or after classes at the International Center or join other UC Davis students for various activities on campus, such as:

Student Assistants

Our Student Assistants guide students through various activities and adventures. They offer students a unique perspective on American culture and student life at UC Davis, as well as opportunities for lasting friendships.

If these activities aren't for you, don't worry, this is just a sample of what we offer. We are always adding new activities to reflect our students' interests. 

  • Purchasing a pass to the fitness center at the Activities and Recreation Center (ARC) for aerobics, rock climbing, tennis and racquetball, weight training and many more athletic activities
  • Taking art and design classes at the Craft Center
  • Joining other organizations for international activities
  • Enjoying bicycling, golf or jogging on campus or in town
  • Learning to ride a horse at the Equestrian Center
  • Experiencing Davis nightlife by going to the cinema, dancing or attending musical performances

students playing soccer

Extracurricular Activities

We provide a wide variety of daily social activities for our students, allowing you to become better acquainted with your fellow classmates, including:

  • Education
  • Ice cream socials
  • Arts and crafts
  • Conversation groups
  • Sports, games and tournaments
  • Cultural potlucks and dances
  • Movie and book discussion groups  

students at Yosemite

Explore Northern California and Beyond

Experience California and beyond on your own. The time spent away from campus provides you with a more complete view of American life and culture. Some recommended trips include:

  • Hiking and observation of nature in Yosemite National Park
  • Visiting and learning about California history in Sacramento, the state's capital
  • Discovering the diversity of American culture in San Francisco
  • Experiencing Disneyland and Universal Studios in Los Angeles
  • Tasting world-famous California wines in the beautiful Napa Valley
  • Showing off athletic abilities while skiing and snowboarding at Lake Tahoe
  • Screaming on the roller coasters at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
  • Rooting for your favorite team at an exciting Sacramento Kings NBA basketball game or a San Francisco Giants baseball game
  • Standing in awe of the majestic Grand Canyon
  • Walking the famous Las Vegas strip