By Mary Braswell

Supporting students’ career goals, caring for their well-being and keeping them engaged after graduation are responsibilities of the Office of Student Affairs and Alumni Relations. In its second year after a staff reorganization, OSAAR emphasizes connectedness to UCLA Luskin at every stage.

Signature initiatives that offer the opportunity for mentorship and networking include the Senior Fellows program, which pairs graduate students with leaders in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. And the Bohnett Fellowship, which places students in roles at Los Angeles City Hall, this year included a trip to the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Washington, D.C.

In its 18th year, the annual UCLA Luskin Day at Los Angeles City Hall brings Public Policy, Social Welfare and Urban Planning graduate students together with government and civic leaders. This year’s focus: How will the city prioritize first- and last-mile transportation investments ahead of mega-events including the 2026 World Cup, 2027 Super Bowl and 2028 Summer Olympics?

The Paint & Sip session in February was a wellness event offering a chance to build community. Photo by Mary Braswell

OSAAR also hosts career fairs, panels with employers and alumni, and special offerings like a LinkedIn photo shoot — 204 professional headshots taken this year!

And wellness programs relating to housing support, navigating conflict, dealing with stress and managing finances are offered all year long, as are referrals to UCLA’s array of student services.

This year’s events included a “Paint and Sip” organized in partnership with the UCLA RISE Center (Resilience In Your Student Experience). Students came together to re-create their “happy place,” turning the Public Affairs Building’s 3rd Floor Commons into a safe space for relaxation, creative expression and community-building.

After graduation, alumni bonds are strengthened at gatherings around the country and during informal Cafecito and Aperitivo meetups around Los Angeles.