For UC Riverside, I had the opportunity to interview Stella! She provided such amazing responses to help if you're interested in UC Riverside! Thank you so much Stella for offering to help and writing these beautiful responses! - Melissa
What is your major and why did you choose it?
I am a Psychology major. When I was deciding what major I wanted to go into, I was debating between Business and Psychology. It was a battle between deciding which could launch me into a stable career the fastest and which I would find the most joy in for the long run. Furthermore, I knew from the beginning that I enjoyed working with and helping people on a more personal level. Therefore, I realized that pursuing a career in Psychology would allow me to do just that, as well as launch me into a stable career.
How would you describe the workload? Do students study on the weekends, go out and hang with their friends, or a mixture of both?
The workload varies depending on your major; however, for me the workload has been at a moderate level. Not too much, but not too little. More often than not, the workload does get heavy but it is definitely manageable. Every student’s priorities are different, but if I were to generalize the entire school I would say students tend to go to the library and study on the weekdays and spend time with their friends on the weekends. However, when midterm and final season comes around, students will most likely spend their weekends studying as well. For me, it has been a mixture of both. It truly all depends on the people who you surround yourself with, your personal schedule, and your own self-discipline.
Typically, how big are your classes? Are they mostly discussion or lecture based?
My classes range anywhere from 17 people to 570 people. For example, my English class had about 17 people in it; while, my Introduction to Psychology class had about 570 people. At UCR, every lecture normally requires you to register for a discussion as well. The lectures typically range from 100-550 people, while the discussions normally hold about 17-35 people.
What do you think makes your school unique?
The amount of support, resources, and diversity UCR provides, encourages, and has is what makes this university unique. For example, as an incoming freshman you have the option to live in a “living-learning community” (LLC) or a community which you identify yourself with. Essentially, these communities are for students who want to live with others who share the same interests as them. For example, if you are an incoming engineering major and would like to make friends with others who you will most likely have multiple classes with over the years, then you could choose to live in the engineering LLC. Furthermore, if you identify yourself with the LGBTQIA community, then you can choose to live in gender inclusive housing. In addition, UCR provides a substantial amount of resources and support with free resources like The Well, Women’s Resource Center, free therapy, free academic tutoring and so much more. Lastly, out of all of the UC’s, UCR is the most diverse university. That was an important factor for me when I was applying to schools. There are many more unique factors about UCR, so it is up to you to find the beauty in it and explore it!
What makes your school so special to you?
No matter the situation you are in, it is up to you to make the most out of it. Since I am in college, I get to choose the environment I want to be in. Therefore, the people are what make UCR so special to me. When I walk on campus, I know that I can ask anyone I pass by questions if I am lost, and I would be treated with the most respect. Knowing that I am a part of a community, knowing that I am actually seen, and knowing that I am understood and respected no matter who I talk to is what makes UCR so special to me. We all come from different paths in life, and every student and staff recognizes that. I encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zone and join clubs and organizations you typically would or would not. Life is all about challenging yourself and learning from your mistakes.