Personal Insight Question

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of California - Davis
1

Hello

So I was talking to a friend of mine who is about to attend a UC school (Cal) this year and he said that one of the best ways to go about with the personal insight questions for the UC App is to ask someone who goes to/went to that UC, because they know exactly what kind of vibe that school is and what the admissions wants. I’m a senior and I’m applying to UC Davis which is my first choice school. Does anyone have any advice for that?

Also, what’s the minimum SAT score required to get into UC Davis? I got a 1210 the last time which I personally think is a trashy score so I took it again. I know Gpa is 3.96 which I meet exactly.

2

There is no minimum SAT score for UC Davis. The 25th percentile is 1190 and the 75th percentile is 1430. A 1210 is within range but much will depend upon your intended major. Highly competitive majors will probably to be at or above the average 1310. The 25th-75th percentile range for UC (capped weighted) GPA is 3.95-4.25. If your UC GPA is 3.96, you are just above the 25th percentile which again is within range but on the low side.

I am not a student but a parent of a recent graduate. My son would say that UCD is a friendly, laid back and collaborative campus with a small town feel. He had an above average UC GPA 4.17, but below average ACT 26. He had good EC’s and interesting essays which helped a reader understand him as a person. He graduated with an Environmental Science degree so not nearly as competitive as Biological sciences/Engineering/CS.

UCD’s application review:

  • Davis
    *
  •   Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores

  •   Important: Character/personal qualities, Extracurricular activities, Talent/ability, Volunteer work

  •   Considered: First generation college student, Geographical residence, State residency, Work experience

  •   Note: Scholastic achievement most important, followed by school and community activities, academic interests, special circumstances, special achievements and awards
3

I would tell you to look at the school’s mission statement or goals but they are too crafted and wordy to get an idea of what the school wants.

The new Executive Director of Undergraduate Admissions comes from UC Santa Cruz. I’m sure she adds a different set of values and priorities to the admissions process. You might read up on her. https://www.ucdavis.edu/news/news-briefs-meet-new-executive-director-ug-admissions/ Davis also has a new Chancellor. https://chancellor.ucdavis.edu/ I’m not sure if he has been there long enough to make a difference on the admissions process.

A few things that were said at open house and orientation. UC Davis embraces and encourages diversity. They encourage interdisciplinary studies. UC Davis doesn’t accept students, they accept future alumni. Your admission is not a mistake. UC Davis is committed to your academic success.

4

@Gumbymom

That actually helps a lot because I also want to major in Environmental science or Sustainable Environmental Design at UCD. I took the SAT in August and got a 1300, which is a good improvement. My parents are supportive of me taking it one last time in December if a higher score (around a 1400) can get me better chances of getting into Davis. But I’m not sure if that would be worth it. What would you suggest? I am definitely taking the biology subject test though in November.

My PI questions are in the works, and my entire EC section is full. But my concern is that I’m not a leader or president in any of my clubs or groups - I am Vice President for them instead - and I’m worried that will not look as good. Also, I don’t have any awards that are quite prestigious. My question is, what kind of standards does Davis have in regards to ECs, volunteer work, awards, etc.?

Thanks for the advice!

5

I do not think any UC has specific standards when it comes to awards, volunteer work and EC’s. As long as you can come across as a unique individual beyond the academics, just emphasize what you are most interested in doing beyond school. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? What do you like most about the EC’s you are currently pursuing?

My son had a passion for fly-fishing and camping which led to his interest in Environmental science so he focused on these areas for his essays.

Regarding taking the SAT, if you think you can bump up your scores, it will definitely help your chances. UC’s can be unpredictable so if you can present the best possible application, it will give you more choices in the end.