UC Irvine

The University of California admitted a record 102,000 California residents, with increased admissions at UCLA, UC Irvine, and UC Riverside. The admissions increase aligns with a state agreement requiring annual in-state student growth and improved transfer pathways for community college students. The Justice Department accused UCLA of race-based admissions practices, but racial demographics remained largely consistent with prior years.

The Cal-Bridge program in California aims to address diversity gaps in STEM fields by supporting undergraduates pursuing doctorates, offering financial aid, mentorship, and research opportunities. The program has a 70% success rate in admitting students to doctorate programs, with three-quarters of participants being students of color and nearly half being women.

Research highlights the negative impact of 'hasslers'—draining, critical, or difficult individuals in social networks. A PNAS study found 8% of people in affected groups are hasslers, with family members being common sources of stress. Women are more likely to encounter hasslers, and relationships with such individuals can compromise mental and physical health.

In Orange County, individuals earning up to $104,200 annually now qualify as 'low income' under 2026 housing guidelines, a significant increase from $94,750 in 2025. Rising housing costs and stagnant wages are making it difficult for middle-income workers to afford homes, with 51% of residents considering leaving the area due to affordability issues.

The influencer accused of making viral allegations against Rep. Eric Swalwell has academic and political ties to Katie Porter, a UC Irvine Law professor and gubernatorial candidate. The campaign claims the influencer and Porter have minimal relationship.