Student Profile
Emily
- Class: Sophomore
- Major: Accounting
- Gender: F
- High School: Miramonte High School
- Transfer Student: N
Big Picture
The best thing about UCSB would definitely be accessibility. It's convenient location provides for easy access to local beaches, downtown Santa Barbara, or just a quick walk to a friend's house in IV. If you want to meet a lot of new people and dress up for fun-filled events, the greek community could be a great option. If you are a leader and wish to give back to UCSB, there are numerous positions available to represent our campus. In addition, the campus offers a great deal of resources for academic assistance or carreer opportunities if you just keep your eyes open. If you're into the music scene, you can check out live concerts at the hub, or visit the 68 block of dp for some live jamming at sunset on Sunday evenings. If you're into community service, Coal Oil Point Reserve is located just west Isla Vista and only a five minute bike ride from campus. At the reserve, there are many programs available such as plan restoration and snowy plover docenting to assist with the protection of a local endangered shorebird, the snowy plover. If you came to SB for some fun in the sun, you're in luck. DP beach is located all along del playa, but if the tide is high or there's too much tar on the shore, Sand's beach is another option. Sand's is also a popular surfing spot, as the wind is minimal and the waves are plenty. In addition, Goleta beach is located east of campus and is a great picnic spot. However, if you're not into getting your feet dirty and you've got summer money to spend, there are numerous buses for those of us who don't have cars that take you downtown from campus or IV. Downtown Santa Barbara is optimal for shopping and dining out, and of course for half-off drinks on Thursday nights for those of us who are 21. Last but not least, if you are an active person, there are many recreational activities available at the Rec Cen or in the greek community for participating in philanthropies. Any way you look at it, UCSB has a lot to offer.
Academic Life
Unlike several universities, most classes at UCSB are very large. However, visiting your TA's or professor's office hours is highly recomended for getting acquainted on a more personal level and for receiving assistance on the material. As for teaching style, each class differs. Some teachers promote class involvement and leave time for Q & A. In contrast, some teachers spend the entire class lecturing. UCSB's academic requirements are a positive way to built incentive to study and go to class. In addition, the GPA requirements for getting into the major of your choice promotes a competitive environment that I like to be a part of. Not only do I challenge myself to work hard despite the many distractions, I learn more and do better in my classes. As you probably know, UCSB is a research university and offers many hands-on classes for the sciences. For this department, education is more geared towards learning for its own sake. On the other hand, my major is Bussiness-Economics and there are a number of opportunities available for networking within the firms and going through the interview process on campus.
Student Body
The type of student at UCSB varies to some extent, however the majority of the population is from California. There are also several exchange students and few transfers. My closest friends consist of a mix of dorm friends, sorority friends, and friends from classes. It's great to be able to meet so many people and spent time with them outside of class. Most people wear comfortable clothes or sweats to class, however there are those random few who spend time on their hair and wear 1 1/2 inch sandals. For those students with financial difficulties, financial aid is available if you apply. As for "out of place" students, I would not recommend people who are unsocial to come to UCSB. The best part about it is the opportunity to meet such a variety of people in such a small radius.
The Best Things
social life
The Worst Things
sanitation
