University of California-Santa Barbara

I love UCSB it's a highly academic school with plenty of opportunities to receive your bachelor's and then go further into master's or Ph.D. programs. With Isla Vista as the main student area, you have plenty of opportunities to meet new friends. There are also many clubs to partake in as well as research opportunities to take advantage of.

The cost is very expensive, especially if you're out of state.

I love the positive atmosphere, supportive teachers, and collaborative nature of each class.

Truthfully, I really have enjoyed my time at UCSB because of the people I met here. My friends and roommates make the confusing classes and fast-paced environment worth it. Honestly, the living situation isn't great, and the school could do better care to think of their students and care for them more. However, as an English major, the classes are all very interesting and the professors are intelligent and helpful. The experience can be difficult and jarring (specifically as a transfer student) but overall I would say it has been worth it and I would recommend the English major to prospective students who want to attend.

I do think students should be aware of the incredibly face-paced quarter system, the demand for required classes, and the sometimes troubling issue of financial aid. Sometimes it feels like the school costs a lot (more than it's worth) and the policies that the school puts in place can truthfully be confusing or unhelpful. The chancellor is also not the greatest (in my opinion), however, the lecturers and professors at UCSB are (in my experience in the English and Writing program) usually very smart and helpful. If you do plan to come here and live off-campus, make sure you apply for housing early (and I mean like apply in December for Fall of the next year). Find good friends, stick with them, and try to find balance here.

UCSB is a great learning environment. Students help other students. Professors are always available to help as well.

The cost of being at UCSB is very high, but there are many on-campus jobs to help, scholarships, and opportunities to help pay for your education.

The people were very welcoming, friendly, and inclusive. The campus is beautiful and there are a lot of places to study. There are almost always events on campus and they appeal to a wide variety of people and interests.

Not a lot of late-night food options and it's difficult to book study rooms during midterms and finals week.

It can be difficult to schedule a meeting with college advisors.