I very much want to go into Cal’s Biochemistry program and if I was to go to Berkeley I would HAVE to live on campus because I’m only 16. After going through Berkeley’s FB page and this site I’ve found that the stances on the school were polarized; I’ve read horror stories and fantasy dreamland tales on all issues and I wanted to hear about some of your experiences. As the name suggests, I am Jewish, and knowing that I can go there and not get into fights every day or alienated for it like I did on the south side in Chicago over it is also important. How rigorous are the academics? How are the girls (you know, when I’m old enough to date the freshman lol)? How is the campus life? How do I deal with the politics there? What kind of clubs are there? What would you recommend for fraternities? I also heard about the police beatings of the students. I’ve done research, sent emails to alumni and current students asking them what it’s like and have received the “it is what you make of it” response numerous times, so any experiences or advice would be greatly appreciated. Someone’s going to say “if you’ve already done your research, why are you here? You’re probably not even 16 hurr de durr”, and my answer to you is that I am paranoid. Just a little bit; and I am 16.
First things first: Can you pay OOS tuition? That’s $55K x 4 years.
55K? I thought it was only 25K. I’ll be able to pay either way.
Berkeley has an active Hillel and you may find it helpful to reach out directly to students there.
If you live in a primarily freshman dorm, you will not feel much younger than your classmates.
The advice you have been given that Berkeley (or any other college) is what you make of it is right. I know miserable students at Berkeley and I know really happy students at Berkeley. After you are admitted (and this goes for other colleges, too) take the time to sit in on classes and meet with students who are in the clubs or activities that interest you.