I’m choosing between Cal and UCLA. Cal has more of what I am looking for academically, but it seems to me from what I’ve read that UCLA is an overall happier place. I haven’t been able to visit either school. Are students as happy and friendly at Berkeley as they are at UCLA? Are “Berkeley goggles” an actual thing? And does Berkeley have a good party scene too? Academics are important, but I want to prioritize my happiness.
I will put it like this, happy and friendly are not words I would use to describe any of my experiences touring UCB. Others may disagree, everyone is different.
No clue what Berkeley Goggles refers to and couldn’t tell you about the party scene. More posters should be along shortly. Good luck
@surfmexico491
My son is a junior at Cal and loves it. Its very work hard, play hard. Academics come first and then its all out fun. He is in Greek life which helps the fun factor admittedly. There is a surf team at Cal and they are good and good company and many very cute girls/guys. Speaking of which, our son has met THE cutest girls there and they are smart too, win win. In regards to the party scene, it seems to revolve a lot around Greek Life but it is thriving, that is never an issue. His friends are happy and friendly, they study a lot but goof around a lot too. My second son is going to Ucla this fall so we’ll see how it compares. If Berkeley has more to offer you academically, don’t worry, Cal is great! (Game days are amazing too! Not to be missed)
Go Bears!
Also, unlike UCLA, Cal’s football stadium is on campus as opposed to a 40 minute drive away. It has more frats and sororities than UCLA and a full Greek row. Definitely not depressing if you manage your time well and SF is super close! Plenty of attractive and smart people 
If you are a pre-med, expect to see considerable competition wherever you go.
I’m a current student at Cal. I came in as a transfer, and as an older student (late 30s). Personally, I haven’t found it depressing, but I searched for groups where I felt I may find friends, and that worked for me. I have a good friend group both with people I have met at school, and through other friends I have made. I don’t know about the party scene, but there are some good breweries where I’ve gone for a pint, and I almost always find people to chat with for a bit. Course work is intense, though, so trying to find time to socialize is a challenge. Overall, I love being a student here, and I’m happy I chose this campus.
I am premed and it’s not competitive.
Berkeley is what you make of it.
And I choose to see it as not competitive.
Labs are great for collaboration.
You can join study groups at the Student Learning Center.
Study rooms in dorms always have a ton of people to work with, especially if you’re in a CS class or other intro class.
Yes there are parties.