Hi everyone! I got into UCSB for Pre-Finance and I’m super stoked because it was one of my top choices. I’ve heard amazing things about the campus and academics and I’ll be touring the university in two weeks.
I just wanted to ask current Gauchos about the social life there. I know there’s a stereotype of being a “party school” but UCSB is constantly a top-ranking college so I’m not too worried about future employers getting a negative vibe because I attended UCSB. I’m more concerned about how I will fit in.
I’m pretty friendly but I’m more of an introverted kind of person. I’m definitely not that type to “say hi” to someone first so I was just wondering if UCSB is good place for someone shy like me. I’ve also grown up in suburban San Diego so most of my friends are Asians.
So, I guess my question is, is UCSB still a good choice for a quiet Filipino girl who’s generally not used to hanging around Caucasians?
Class of '06 alum here. I imagine things have changed slightly in the past decade, but UCSB is a big school and you will be able to find a social group no matter who you are. When I went there people were friendly overall, but there was a bit of a fratty “bro” culture and that definitely wasn’t my scene. I was more into the art/music scene and I had no trouble finding similar people, even if we were a minority compared to the average student. With so many people on campus, you will find plenty of like-minded peers and you’ll be able to have a good experience even if you find that many of your classmates aren’t exactly like you.
YES it is a good choice for you. UCSB has a large filipino clup called KP and a great social asian community (lots of people know each other even from different asian clubs). I am sure you will find lots of greats friends in KP or any of the Asian communities, I had several friends from that KP and I was in the cambodian org. KSA. I was pretty introverted and shy too, like the above person said you will definitely find a group of like minded individuals. Just put yourself out there join clubs, join study groups and go to social events in your halls.