When James Riggs arrived at UC Riverside as a biology major, he knew he wanted a career in healthcare—but he wasn't yet sure what that would look like. Four years later, he graduated with a clear path forward, shaped by the experiences and community he found along the way.
James is spending a gap year working in a physical therapy clinic before applying to physical therapy school. His journey to that decision wasn't immediate, and he credits his time at UCR with helping him discover where his interests truly belonged.
"I came to UCR just knowing I wanted to do something in the medical field," he said. "My first two years, I wasn't sure what I wanted to do... I eventually fell upon physical therapy, and now I currently work in a physical therapy clinic, so it is something that I do want to pursue."
For James, one of the most valuable parts of his college experience was getting involved outside the classroom. He encourages students to join organizations early, saying they provide both meaningful friendships and lasting professional connections.
"Once you start to get involved in your clubs, especially during your freshman or sophomore year, it helps you in the long run in terms of getting connections and having a group that you can fall back on."
One organization that became especially meaningful was the Asian American Christian Fellowship (AACF), where he found a close-knit community that helped shape his college experience. Through the organization, James built friendships that extended beyond campus and found a support system that kept him grounded throughout his undergraduate years.
James also points to UCR's academic advising team as an important resource for student success. He recommends meeting with advisors regularly to stay on track with coursework, maintain academic goals, and prepare for life after graduation.
Originally drawn to UCR because of the financial aid opportunities that made earning his degree possible, James also came to appreciate the campus itself. He enjoyed its welcoming size, convenient location, and the sense of community he found throughout his four years as a Highlander.
As he reflects on his time at UCR, James hopes incoming CNAS students embrace every opportunity to learn and grow—even when things don't go as planned.
"You will succeed in some places and you will fail," he said. "But learning from your failures and continuing to push forward is probably the best advice I have."
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