Happy almost-decision day! If you’re anything like me, you waited until the very last minute of May first, to decide between your top two schools in what feels like the biggest decision of your entire life. I’m assuming you’ve come across this piece because UCSB is among your top choices. So, let me tell you just why it should be your number one.
The Environment:
Princeton Review named UCSB students the happiest in California, and there’s a reason why.
I’m sure you’ve heard of Isla Vista, UCSB’s neighboring college town, one square mile of lawless fun. Okay, it’s not actually lawless, but I won’t lie, sometimes it feels that way. Parties line the streets on weekends, and during the day, students are milling about headed to beach days, one of our many restaurants, or thrift/small business events.
Though I’m now a Senior, I still find myself awe-struck at the community that surrounds me. It feels very small-town in vibe, with everyone looking out for one another, and even in the little things like saying hello to people you pass on the sidewalk. It’s definitely a great experience being able to just walk a few blocks to see your best friends.
Santa Barbara is also beautiful. Living in Isla Vista, you’re never more than a 15 minute walk from the beach. It’s a great opportunity to spend time with friends or de-stress among nature. We’re also surrounded by beautiful hiking trails, everything from hot springs to butterfly groves.
Okay, so maybe you’re not a nature person. Santa Barbara is also home to a lot of small boutiques, weekly farmer’s markets, and lots of clubs and bars in the downtown area. A bowling alley nearby, coffee shops galore, thrift spots, and relatively well-priced movie theaters, there’s something for everyone.
The Academics:
Okay, probably the more boring part of the college experience, but in theory, the whole reason you’re going to school: the academics. According to the US News and World Reports, UCSB is ranked #7 as an overall university. With over 90 majors, and 40 minors, UCSB offers an abundance of educational experiences to explore.
One thing that I know I was worried about with going to a large university, was disappearing and becoming lost in lectures of hundreds of students. One great thing that UCSB offers, is what is referred to as sections. For most GE courses, or under-divisions, you have to take a section in addition to your lecture. This is a small 50 minute class held once a week, taught by a TA, with the goal to go over any questions you have that the professor didn’t cover. This class becomes a small community in which you are all able to work together to make sure things didn’t get lost during lecture.
UCSB is also a research-based university. Third year, Ellie Brode says that she finds our professors are very involved in their fields of research. With only 62 research-intensive universities, if this is something you’re looking for, UCSB is a great option. As of 2013, we were ranked second of scientific research impact. But if you’re not a STEM student, never-fear. UCSB also hosts, “24 dedicated research centers and academic initiatives in the humanities and fine arts, four celebrated performance programs in theater and dance and 25 accomplished musical groups, ensembles and choirs.”
UCSB also offers Study Abroad programs, opportunities to work with professors as Research Assistants, and many other academic opportunities.
The People:
UCSB is known for its beach-bum, laid-back vibe. While the school itself is relatively selective with its enrollment, I’ve found that the students themselves are not overwhelmingly competitive. Graduating Linguistics Major, Sonia Saldana notes, I like how friendly students are here, it’s not a competitive, hostile environment. Iā€™d say our culture has alleviated some of my social anxiety. For the most part, we are a community that wants to see and help each other succeed. I’ve never felt at competition against my fellow classmates, which is something I know many other UCs do struggle with.
As an introvert, it was definitely difficult for me to put myself out there and make friendsā€”one of my biggest concerns coming to college. However, in my experience, UCSB’s students are open-minded and inclusive. I may have initially felt out of place, but I’ve found my people. I work on campus, and have found some of my best friends through coworkers who I never would’ve expected to mesh with. Recent graduate Katelynn Nuno says, what I love about UCSB is that it is very inclusive, and anywhere you go, you will find community. UCSB has over 500 student organizations (HC being the best of them;)) and so you’ll never struggle to find your people if you just take a chance to look. I even met my best friend in the street walking to a soccer gameā€”you truly never know here!
If you haven’t made your mind up yet, just know that whatever you decide, you’ll find your way and find your place. Welcome Future Gauchos!