Thinking about how to build a college list? Thinking about how to pick colleges to apply to? Thinking about how to pick the right college? In this series, you will get a first-hand perspective of our Matriculate students at their different campuses. Get a glimpse into UC Davis college campus life!
THE WHY: Why did you decide to commit to UC Davis? What factors drew you to this school?
Part of me wishes I had a better reason for choosing this school. The most honest answer is that UC Davis was the school offering me the most financial aid. UC Davis’s financial aid offer, however, inspired me to research their school and the best things about UC Davis. I learned how well it fit who I am and what I’m interested in. I was fortunate enough to be an admitted student!
UC DAVIS ACADEMIC LIFE: Can you share more about your experiences with classes, class size, lectures, and professors? What about clubs and extracurriculars?
I have had a good mix of classes so far. Two of my classes are smaller with around 19-30 people each. I would say it’s much easier to engage with other classmates and the professor in these classes compared to my classes which take place in large lecture halls with around 150-250 people. For these classes, we have a discussion section during the week with a TA and about 30 students, so you still have an opportunity to get to know students and ask any questions you have. As for UC Davis student organizations, there are tons of clubs on campus that cover several areas of interest ranging from acapella to gardening to religious and cultural groups. UC Davis has provided me with so many opportunities already. For example, I’m already in an internship working with elementary school students in Math, my field of study!
UC DAVIS CAMPUS LIFE: Tell us more about the dining hall and dorm situation! How is the food - are there enough options for those with dietary restrictions? What is the dorm and housing situation like?
UC Davis student housing and dining services have worked out well for me! I was lucky to have a long-time friend go to UC Davis, so we ended up rooming together and actually got a double dorm our first year. There are three residential halls on campus and university apartments as well. UC Davis Student Housing has hosted several community events, which have been really fun and I’ve met so many people through them and have gotten to explore the campus more. The dining hall is almost buffet-style and offers several options for everyone. You can also request any modifications if you have specific restrictions.
UC DAVIS SOCIAL LIFE: Share more about the social scene - how did you make friends? Do most people join Greek life or are there ways to make friends outside of Greek life? What is there to do for fun?
Apart from classes and clubs, the main way I have been meeting people is by attending any UC Davis campus events hosted by campus organizations and residential areas. Greek life at UC Davis isn’t as big a deal here as in other schools, but it still exists. Outside of campus is downtown with a bunch of shops and things to do, such as the Saturday farmers market. There are several free events on campus (I haven’t heard of an event that wasn’t) and multiple yearly traditions such as Picnic Day and Sunset Fest.
MATRICULATE: How did Matriculate help you get to UC Davis?
When I was applying to college, I had no idea where to begin or what to do. Matriculate helped me tremendously throughout the whole process from making a college list to obtaining financial aid and scholarships to committing to UC Davis. I am so thankful for all the support I received.
NEED FREE COLLEGE APPLICATION SUPPORT?
Matriculate is a national nonprofit that offers 1:1 support throughout the entire college application process! If you’re a high school student, check out our application and resources HERE.
MEET THE AUTHOR
Meriya Sperry
Meriya is a first-year Matriculate Ambassador. Having been a High School Fellow herself, she knows first-hand the value of the resources Matriculate and its Advising Fellows provide. Growing up in a guardianship, being a first-generation student, and being Mexican-American presented several obstacles when she was seeking further education. She is excited to join the organization that helped her overcome those obstacles.
Meriya is now a freshman at the University of California, Davis, and hopes to aid her own and future generations in achieving their goal of further education.