For UC Berkeley, I was so fortunate enough to interview the amazing Katelyn, who reached out to me and offered to help me! Her responses are so beneficial if you're interested in UC Berkeley! Thank you so much Katelyn for your kindness and generosity in helping so many high school students and even introducing me to a USC student! You are such an amazing person and I appreciate it a lot!
How would you describe the workload? Do students study at home during the weekends or go out and relax with their friends?
"The workload will vary by semester based on how many units you take, but in general, it’s not too bad. It’s recommended you take 15 units a semester which is about 3-4 classes, but you can take a minimum of 13 to be considered a full-time student. Personally, I think it’s super important to balance academics with your social life, don’t get too caught up in one or the other. I’d say spend one day during the weekend doing homework and studying and use the other to relax and hangout, otherwise you may feel like you’re overworking yourself."
What is your major and why did you choose this major?
"I came into Cal undeclared (and still am), but I knew I wanted to do something with Environmental Science so I’ve been looking towards Society and Environment in the College of Natural Resources! The climate activism that takes place on our campus and in the surrounding Bay Area is super inspiring and something I’m very passionate about so I wanted a major that went hand in hand with that. There’s a plethora of majors offered across the colleges within Berkeley, so there really is something for everyone."
What inspired you to work hard to strive to get into UC Berkeley?
"I’m a first-generation college student and first-generation Mexican-American, which were the main reasons why I really wanted to go to college, I also wanted to take advantage of the opportunities my parents didn’t have. I had dreamed about Berkeley since my freshman year of high school and could really picture myself attending. Being from SoCal and having lived there my whole life, I really wanted a change of scenery and I loved everything I had heard about Berkeley and the Bay. There were definitely days where I felt like giving up, but it’s important to always keep your goal in mind and remember it will all pay off eventually."
What do you think makes UC Berkeley unique?
"I think the history at Berkeley is what makes it truly unique. From being the first UC in the system, the political movements that have taken place on campus, and the founding of elements, our history shows that Berkeley is an extravagant place with intelligent people. The current students are also incredible, everyone here has goals or dreams that they want to achieve and being in that environment is personally motivating."
What’s your favorite class?
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"Although I’ve only been here for two semesters, I can easily say these two classes are my favorite! Chicano 50, Intro to Chicanx History taught by Dr. Pablo Gonzalez helped me not only connect more with my culture but also helped introduce me to fellow Latinx students on campus. Professor Gonzalez cared deeply about his students and his office hours extend beyond just academics, which was something I appreciated as an incoming student. He made each of his students feel comfortable and enjoy coming to lecture every MWF. He’s also just an incredibly sweet and funny man and I hope to take classes with him again in the future!"
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"My other favorite class is one I’m taking this semester. It’s actually called a Decal and is student-led! Zero Waste: Solutions for a Sustainable Future is an introduction to environmental problems we’re facing today and proposes solutions that we can all slowly implement into our daily lives. Although in-person classes were cut short this semester due to coronavirus, Sage (the student-professor) is still extremely passionate and motivating and I have loved the content of the course. If you’re curious about things such as your carbon footprint or the negative effects of animal agriculture, this course offers that and so much more."
Are you from California or out of state? How did this affect your financial aid?
"I’m from in-state which helps lessen the burden of the total cost of attendance. I also received some grants from the school which has been a tremendous help, but definitely recommend applying for scholarships! There is a lot of free money out there that people are trying to give to incoming college students to support them in their education, it just takes some looking for whichever criteria you meet."
How would you describe your first-year experience at UC Berkeley?
"Overall, I think my first-year experience here at Berkeley has been amazing. I’ve gotten involved in clubs and organizations I’m passionate about, attended fun sporting events, made some incredible friends, and learned a lot about myself as a student and as a person. There’s always stuff to do here, so there’s really never a dull moment. Go (future) bears!!"