I am entering my first year of college at CSULA, and I want to make sure to do everything possible to be able to transfer to a top-tier UC (UCSD, UCLA, UCI…) in two years, as I was not accepted into any as a freshman. What should I do to ensure I get into my desired school?
I would post in the UC transfer thread for the best information. If you are targeting UC’s, you should consider attending a CCC and then using TAG to transfer although UCLA/UCSD and UCB do not participate. A CSU to UC transfer is possible but more difficult since there are no specific articulation agreements in place like TAG or TAP.
http://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/transfer/guarantee/
You can apply to transfer as a Jr but, will need to be a competitive applicant. For those schools, target a 3.7+ GPA and build your EC resume with internships, volunteer hours etc. Follow the TAG/TAP framework for your course selection and hope for the best. UCLA, UCSD and UCB don’t participate in TAG, you really won’t be at a disadvantage to Cal CC students If UCI offers TAG for your major, and you are willing to make that move - a CC might be a better choice. The CC will probably be cheaper too - though getting required classes at some of them can be tough.