University of California-Berkeley

In which ways do you feel you are learning and growing?

As a freshman in 2023-2024 at UC Berkeley, I can feel myself grow as a person. I am forced to be more independent, study in the library because it is the best way for me to focus, I am more appreciative and aware of things due to the diversity and environment at Berkeley. I also always feel welcomed to be myself, and I found that there are a lot of clubs that matches everyone’s interest, and these clubs are one of the main ways you can also make friends. They said that it is really hard to get into some of these clubs, but I think that while it is true, it is still doable (ex: if you apply to 4 competitive clubs if you really try, you’ll get into one). Also even though it is challenging, it teaches you how to get comfortable with interviews, which is a really important skills when you’re looking for jobs and internships.

How are you enjoying your time at this college?

I enjoy UC Berkeley A LOT. I am really glad that I chose UC Berkeley because I had the best freshman year experience. It went by really fast, and I am so sad because I’m going to miss freshman year so much. I met a lot of new friends through my dorm floor and clubs. My dorm (Unit 2) and my floor in particular made a really close bond with each other and they are one of my closest and nicest people I met. We go out together, went to parties, study together, go on mini-road trips together, went to amusement park together, go to Taco Tuesday together, because there are so much food places open and the places around the university is still pretty lively in midnight. If you are someone who loves going out with your friends, Berkeley is the place. Me and my friends go out every single weekend, at least once a week to parties. We also host dorm parties, Galentines party in the dorms, celebrate birthdays in the dorms, and so much more. Keep in mind that you have to balance things out with your academics and sleep.

What tips can you share with prospective students?

You really need to know how to manage your time here. I think that’s every college but it is really underestimated. I think that the saying “you gotta choose one of the three in college: sleep, social, academic” is VERY TRUE, unless you learn how to manage time.

What qualities do you have that have best prepared you for success at this institution?

I think time management, and learn to have a decent social skills if you want a good social life.

In what ways do you feel this college challenges students academically?

Classes are REALLY HARD especially if you’re in engineering. However, if they have labs, they’re usually really fun, but still hard.

How would you describe the dorm life at this school?

Dorm life depends on which unit you choose. If you want a social dorm and meet social people, choose Unit 2 or maybe unit 1. The rest are not super social (unit 3, clark kerr, foothill, blackwell, etc)

How would you describe the food and dining options?

Food is unpredictable, but they’re not as bad as most people on social media say. Also you can use your meal swipe on certain restaurants and cafe around campus and those are really good. If you want good dining hall food, go to crossroads, foothill dining, or clark kerr dining. DO NOT GO TO CAFE 3 dining.

In your experience, what is there to do for fun at this college?

Parties, Late night snack runs, Study sessions together that usually always end up with 70% talking to friends 30% studying, club retreats, greek life.

In what clubs or organiziations have you participated and how have they impacted your overall experience?

I’m not in any significant clubs/org, but i know a lot of people and people on my floor who are in greek life and clubs, and that’s how we get into parties every single weekend.

Are there any quirky or unique traditions that make your college special?

“Family” dinner every night at cross roads(croads) with my friends who are mostly my floor mates.

How does this institution support campus safety or mental health and wellness programs?

They have a lot of in person and online resources on that for free

How has your college supported your career development and future goals?

There are a lot of resources, mentors, programs, career fairs, guest speakers and a lot through club connections.