Tamar  Garniek

Student fees should make your life easier. More useful fitness options. Better mental health support. More clarity when you’re figuring out your future. And real resources for off-campus students who are paying into this campus too.
Hi Gauchos! My name is Tamar, and I’m a first-year Biochemistry major running to be your next Off-Campus Senator.
Almost 48% of UCSB undergraduates face food insecurity, and eligible students can receive up to $298 a month through CalFresh — yet too many students still do not know these resources exist or how to access them. That is not just a resource problem, it is a communication problem. UCSB already has support systems in place, but if students do not know about them, they are not doing enough.
I’m running because I want student money to go toward things students actually use and feel in everyday life. That means more available workout classes, a cleaner and better gym environment, better counseling and wellness support, and stronger visibility for resources like CalFresh, the A.S. Food Bank, and Mental Health Peers. CAPS also offers same-day support during business hours, and students can access peer counseling plus the massage chair through Mental Health Peers — but many students still are not aware of it.
I also want to push for stronger mentorship and more clarity for students who feel unsure about their major or future. UCSB already has Undeclared & Transitions Advising for students exploring or switching majors, and I want support like that to be more visible and easier to navigate.
As Off-Campus Senator, I also want to advocate for practical off-campus improvements like better access to transportation options students actually rely on. UCSB students already ride MTD for free with their Access Card, and Zipcar is already available on and around campus — but there is still room to improve awareness, convenience, and access.
A vote for me is a vote for:
Better communication about student resources
Stronger wellness, counseling, and mentorship support
Smarter spending that actually improves student life