Transfer from CAL to UCLA/UCSD?

Transfer Students UC Transfers
1

<p>As my freshman year winds down at CAL, I've been seriously thinking about whether or not I'd like to transfer schools for Fall 2011. I've found that Berkeley isn't really my kind of place. Not academically, but city/atmosphere wise (although I'm sure the latter has probably negatively affected my academics in some way). I've also lived near Berkeley my whole life and have had some family problems that I think a change of scenery/experiencing something new would be good for me. </p>

<p>I'm wondering what my chances are in transferring to UCLA or UCSD? I'm currently an intended MCB-Immunology Emphasis major and I would be looking to transfer into Human Bio-Human Disease Emphasis at SD or Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics at LA, which I know are difficult to get into. The problem is my GPA isn't that great right now, even for a science major, around a 3.1 cumulative. I am definitely on a mission to bring it up next fall before transfer decisions. In terms of EC's, I have a work study job and am in a few clubs and am going to apply for a research apprenticeship for next school year. I will also have completed UC Reciprocity by the end of spring semester next year. Also, is there something different that transfer admissions look for in applicants that freshman admissions don't, in terms of essays and EC's? Any advice would be appreciated!</p>

2

<p>Not sure why you would want to transfer to SD even if the location is better. If anything try to transfer to LA or just stay at ucb. Your in one of the top schools already no reason to move down…</p>

3

<p>"Your in one of the top schools already no reason to move down… "
Actually I think the op did mention some reasons.</p>

4

<p>Because the OP doesn’t like it at cal obviously… I think that if you get your grades up (it’s more difficult to transfer at from one UC to another then it is to transfer form a JC) you will have a good shot. Having work and school ECs is good and I would try to find something to do EC whys that sets you apart from the other applicants, but coming from berk pretty much does that haha. As for essays I would say use your “additional information” part to explain why you feel that berkeley wasn’t a good fit for you and why you think you would excel someplace else. I think you Definitely have a shot at SD and possibly at UCLA is you work on your GPA.</p>

5

<p>Thanks everyone. Yeah, my GPA was actually only brought down by one particularly bad grade. Will they take that into consideration? Or does overall GPA count more?</p>