CSUSM recently opened a new Veterans Center, donated by a group of approximately 60 interdisciplinary students at the Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, N.J. The Center is a place where military-affiliated students can receive support in achieving their academic and career goals with services tailored to their unique needs. Staff assist students navigate the admissions process, access their GI benefits, register for courses, find campus resources and get involved in leadership and social activities, facilitating their move from a very tight-knit community in the armed forces to the tight-knit community that exists at Cal State San Marcos.

Today’s students need to be able to think critically and problem solve to meet the challenges of the future. At CSUSM, hands-on research and learning opportunities offer students the chance to advance their creative, analytical and critical thinking skills so that they may become constructive and reflective agents of change.

Every day CSUSM student-athletes demonstrate that with fortitude and effort they can excel not only academically in the classroom but on the playing court and field as well. As Cougar Athletics continues to grow, now is the time to get involved! Watch the video and hear how fan and donor support are critical to elevating the CSUSM athletics program to the next level.Learn more about Cougar Athletics at csusmcougars.edu

CSUSM is teaching teachers how to open doors to the world. The university is launching a new, specialized program to train educators for dual language classrooms, where students learn everything from math to the humanities in both English and either Spanish, French, Mandarin or another second language. Demand for such instruction is exploding as parents and educators come to realize that American students must be fluent in more than one language to compete effectively in the global economy.To help K-12 schools meet the growing demand, CSUSM this fall will offer a new Dual Language Certificate through its Master of Arts in Education program.Learn more about CSUSM's program at www.csusm.edu/education/Programs/duallanguagecert.html

Researchers at CSUSM are studying the health benefits of recreational surfing, proving its value as a dynamic physical workout that positively contributes to cardiovascular health.Conducting both field and lab research, kinesiology undergraduates and faculty observe study participants at the beach and in a simulation lab on campus, analyzing the heart rates, oxygen intake, activity levels and paddling mechanics of surfers.The research being done by CSUSM professor Dr. Sean Newcomer and his team is the first of its kind on recreational surfing, and studies both male and female surfers ranging from their teens to 65 years old.

The hub of student life, the new University Student Union (USU) at Cal State San Marcos brings a stronger sense of community and collaborative spirit to campus. The four-story USU features new dining options, an open-air amphitheater, a student activity center with a game lounge, an eco-friendly rooftop garden and patio, and an expansive ballroom. Designed with the input of students, the USU opened its doors in January 2014.Explore all that the USU has to offer by visiting www.csusm.edu/usu.