I was just wondering how the environment at UCB would be for a person with moderate to right-leaning political views? I am considering applying for their MBA program sometime in the future, since I know they have a good business program, but I have also seen the reaction to Milo Yiannopolous going there on the news, which makes it seem like a dangerous place for right-leaning people.
To be clear, I am mostly conservative on economic issues, but I am pretty liberal on many social issues. I also voted for Trump. I get along fine with people who are different than me, but I am pretty outspoken on economic issues. I know that what I see on the news is probably exaggerated, but still I wonder…
So should I avoid UCB totally, or apply and and if I get in hope for the best?
As a conservative myself at UCB, really its fine. The riots were all due to Oakland ANTIFA members coming over to be violent. The actual students and staff are fine. Sure you has Police negligence, but besides that its ok
It is a very big school. While it is traditionally a very left-leaning institution, there are people all along the political spectrum, including people who, as @Pentaprism points out, don’t care. Some people feel that expressing/defending their political beliefs is of paramount importance; the rest are there to get a world-class education, period. If being surrounded by nothing but like-minded people is what would make you feel most comfortable, I would say look elsewhere (your options may be very limited). However, I’m sure you will find those that are more like you than you think - fiscally conservative, socially progressive.
If you come on campus and act reasonable you’ll be treated just fine. If you come on campus and act like a jerk you’ll be treated like a jerk. If your brand of conservatism dovetails with Milo Y. then don’t expect people to treat you well.
Don’t worry about it too much. When you’re partying at the frats, studying, or joining clubs they won’t give a **** about your political affiliation. There’s so much more to Cal than politics, and I would recommend that you apply even if the political climate doesn’t really match yours.