Hi!
I am currently enrolled in a four year private university in California. I am going into my second year, (but still can get out and go to a JC) if I should instead go to a JC because I will have a better chance at getting in to a Cal state or UC. Anything will help me, thanks!
You may have some classes that articulate to UC/CSUs but you won’t get much help prior to applying. If you go to a CC for your 2nd year, there is an abundance of help http://assist.org. How many units do you have? What is your major?
Read http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/uc-transfers/ and ask there.
While the vast majority of CSU and UC transfers do come from CA CCs, many transfer in from private schools, out of state etc. You could go back to your current school and apply to your target CSU/UC in October/November for Jr transfer. Assuming you’ve done well and can map a path to the 60 semester unit total, you may be able to move to a CC and transfer to a UC/CSU in the Fall of 16 - conceivably keeping you on-track for a 4 year graduation.
Another option would be to target Humboldt or UNR which both accept lower division transfers (I know UNR isn’t a CSU or UC but, it is an option.)
A better understanding of your situation would help guide you further.
Why do you want to leave your current school?
What will be different at a UC or CSU?
What would make you stay?
How did you do there?
What do you want to study?
Do you have a specific CSU or UC in mind?