Life and Academics at University of California, Berkeley

University of California, Berkeley is a world-renowned school for academic excellence.  Cal, as its students affectionately call it, consistently maintains the top spot for US public colleges, and claims prestigious Nobel Laureates as its faculty.   Indeed, it seems to be the perfect school as a perfect school ought to be.  However, as Hamlet would say, 'There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy'.

Academics

From the traditional to the non-traditional, you’ll find everything you’re looking for at Cal.  If you don’t find it, you’re able to create your own classes.   The professors are at the top of their game whether it’s the liberal arts or engineering, although they are not necessary at the top of the students’ game.   Many courses are heavily dependent on Graduate Student Instructors rather than the professors.  One on one time with a professor is mostly based on office hours.

As an undergrad, the general education and core requirement classes start out huge.  There are several large auditoriums that could fit hundreds of people at one time, although throughout the semester, you’ll see the number of attendants drop to half, at least until midterms or finals.   However, don’t let that fool you, the competition is still immense and the people are exceptionally intelligent.  If you’re waiting for the bell curve to drop, then you’ll be waiting a long time.

Life