University of California-Berkeley

My favorite thing about UC Berkeley is that you are constantly surrounded by people who are just as passionate in their fields as you are in your own field. Being immersed among like-minded individuals gives me such a rush.

I think that the dining hall food here is quite lackluster, especially for the tuition we pay...

Berkeley is a great way to make connections/friends. Schoolwork can be overwhelming at times, but it challenges you in an interesting way. Campus as many resources regarding any issue you have. Everyone has equal opportunity.

The area surrounding Berkeley is expensive; compared to other cities, some groceries, food, supplies, etc are more expensive. Another thing is dining hall food is mostly disappointing. Most of the time it's not worth getting, however, the food on campus is good so that's good at the very least.

Though only my first year, Cal is a school that does manage to have events and activities for everyone of different backgrounds. Classes are hard but I am very excited about my next few years here.

The area is very limited in food and housing is complex and confusing.

Cal is a big school, meaning there is a niche for just about everyone. The school offers tons of interesting clubs, organizations, and activities to be involved in so there is never a dull moment. I found my classmates to be, overall, extremely intelligent and outspoken, making for interesting classes and debates. It's wonderful to be able to take classes from a range of professors, some with fascinating experience in the government and private sector. Overall I loved my time at Cal and would highly recommend it. A few things to keep in mind, because it is a big school with large classes, it's important to actively manage your own education and trajectory, no one is going to handhold. If you need help with classes, career, etc you need to be proactive about seeking this help out by going to the professor and TA during office hours, raising your hand in class (sometimes daunting in giant classes), and interacting with the administration.

Parts of Berkeley can be a bit seedy but the area around the campus is great. Need to be able to seek out help/services, no hand-holding

My experience at UC Berkeley has been a good one. It’s a beautiful campus with some really good professors. It also has an array of opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students

Unfortunately, UC Berkeley has some issues when it comes to housing.

I am happy to be part of UC Berkeley because I can see that it values diversity the same way as I do. I am so glad to see people of different colors and races in my classes, and it inspires me even more to continue my advocacy. I know that racism is a grave issue in the U.S., but Cal makes me believe that we are steps closer to our goal. We may be taking small steps, but for me, small steps matter.

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