For UCLA, a college student, Zoe, reached out to me and offered to help me answer some questions you guys have! The responses are great and I recommend you checking her out if you're interested in UC schools! Thank you so much Zoe and I appreciate your kindness in helping others!
How would you describe the weather at UCLA? Does it frequently snow? What would advise students to bring when coming to UCLA?
"The weather at UCLA is super nice! It ranges from about 55°F to a little over 100°F. Because of this, a lot of the dorms don't have air conditioning (including the dorms where most freshmen live, the classic triple). It gets really hot in these rooms over the summer and fall, so definitely bring a fan if you're going to be living there. Even though it's in LA, it does rain sometimes and it can get pretty cold, so bring an umbrella and some warmer clothing. Right now, you're probably thinking that I just said the lowest temperature is 55°F, and that's not cold at all. Trust me, you get super used to mild weather, and once it gets below 60°F you will be freezing. I live in-state, but my friends from out of state were surprised at how cold it gets here, and had to have their parents mail them warm clothes."
What makes UCLA? So special to you? Was it your first choice and your dream school?
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"UCLA is so special to me because I've met so many amazing people here. Everyone I've met is really motivated, kind, and hard-working. There is a competitive environment here, but it is very positive, as it is more for everyone to do the best they can. The vast majority of our classes here are not curved, and any adjustment to your grades will be to move them up. When I first came here I didn't realize that curving was actually a bad thing, as it lowers the grades of some people. The straight scale that is generally used lends to the community environment, so we can all help each other with our classes."
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"I also love that it is super easy to go around LA, or go to the beach.The dorms are pretty separated from the city. Housing is on "the hill," so it's a 10 minute walk to the main part of Westwood (where all the shops/restaurants are located)."
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"I really made an effort to not have a first choice school during the process, but I've always loved UCLA. One big reason I decided I wanted to come here was my major. I'm a microbiology, immunology and molecular genetics major. That major really does not exist at many other schools, and it matches my interests insanely well. Also, the vibe of the school just felt right to me. It sounds a little silly, but I felt like I fit in perfectly here, and it was only of the only schools I could see myself living and studying at."
Were you awarded financial aid? If yes, did it lift off some pressure?
"I did not receive any financial aid. The financial aid is all need-based, and I do live in-state, so I didn't qualify for anything beyond the small loan option everyone is given. Very few people here are given a full ride, as it is a public school. Generally, people I know pay anywhere from 10K to the full out-of-state tuition."
What is one tip you would give to high school students, especially juniors who are currently searching for college to apply? Should they research how good the food is, the weather, or how prestigious the college is?
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"I researched schools pretty extensively both before applying and after decisions came out. I think it's really important to hear what the students who go there have to say about the school and their classes. After the decision stage, I think I should've looked into the classes I would have to take for my major. Often, the website for your major will have a suggested course plan, showing when you should take what classes."
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"At UCLA, this can get pretty confusing as we are on the quarter system and it can be fairly difficult to get the lower-div classes you need. I've gotten all the classes I need, except for one, but it can be very stressful as I take the pre-med classes, so they fill quickly."
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"Just to hype up UCLA, definitely look up how good the food is. We have some of the best dining halls in the country! But, I think that when you're applying to colleges, you should apply where you think you will be the happiest. Look at the surrounding areas, school spirit, Greek life, and parties. Everyone has their own preferences for all of these. It's really important to remember that your social life is a huge part of your college experience, whether you want a huge group of friends to go out with every weekend, or a small group to stay in with. Plus, the happier you are, the more motivated you will be, and the better you will do in your classes!"