I have been trying to find out online through the UCLA website but I am curious if anyone knows if they have a special Fall Program for Freshman like Berkeley? Or do they offer special program that gives opportunities for smaller classes, priority class registration or more direct access to academic advisors
UCLA’s does not have a program similar to FPF like UC Berkeley but they do have an Honors program that offers smaller classes, priority registration and academic advisor access.
Almost all universities Honor’s program offer these perks.
@Gumbymom We are doing “Cal day” virtually this week as we are in NC & also participated in a bunch of UCLA events. Still trying to make decision - it is REALLY hard for my son since he has not been to UCLA. Any additional insight or recommendations or things that might help him - I would really appreciate!!
@Rozzienc:
Both UCB and UCLA are excellent schools academically and will be competitive but the campus is vibe is very different. There is no bad choice here just different California locations and social scene.
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I would compare curriculum’s for his major between the 2 schools including electives of interest to see if there are any major differences.
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UCB is on a semester system, while UCLA is on the quarter system. Quarter system is very fast paced and you need to hit the ground running or you end up getting behind very fast. I had one son love the quarter system, having the variety of professors and getting classes over with quickly while the other preferred the semester system where he had time to acclimate to the professor’s teaching style and more time to absorb the material.
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UCB is in a fast paced city, much grittier area surrounding a smaller campus and I found the students more intense from my perspective. UCLA’s location still in a sprawling city, much larger campus with nicer off campus location Westwood with plenty of activities available. The students appeared to be more friendly and relaxed.
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Sports are very big for both schools but found UCLA more rah rah.
As a parent, I found something to like about every campus I visited, but was not a fan of either school. As a student, I am sure my perspective would be completely different so it is really hard to make recommendations.
Best of luck with his decision. Being unable to visit and coming from NC, it is a huge leap of faith when trying to decide.
@Gumbymom My son has decided on Berkeley! I am so excited for him and proud of him for taking the time to really research and talk to students and be an active part of the “virtual” admitted students day. Thank YOU so much for your insight as well!! Go Bears!
@Rozzienc: Congratulations for your son and best of luck.