I don’t understand why so many people seem to talk shit about Berkeley. I often hear people saying that the campus is “ugly” or that it’s “boring” or that the students there are just “nerds.” It’s far from that.

You’ll always come across people who don’t like the school they attend, but you have to consider yourself and how you will fit in. Every campus has a lot to offer, and some are unique to only that campus, but you have to take initiative to find what you like, explore your school, make friends, and find your “community.” 

College is a “big boy” and “big girl” school, things don’t come easily and grades sure the heck don’t come easily; it’s all about the effort you put into it. However much effort you put into going to meetings, going to class, meeting your hall mates/class mates will lead to how much you gain out of the experience, whether it be new friends, study-buddies, or finding a new interest/passion. As for every college, it’s going to be as fun as you make it to be. Learn to let loose and be happy. Enjoy your youth, freedom, and new environment.

Anyway, back to my original topic: “Berkeley Bashers.” I’m just tired of hearing people say that Berkeley is “overrated” and shit. Yes, Berkeley does take a lot of credit in the media, yes Berkeley is a very competitive school, and yes Berkeley holds a lot of prestige— but that is something the school should be able to flaunt and be proud of.

And on another note, it’s one thing to talk shit about Berkeley, but it’s another to say that shit and then apply to Berkeley. I know it’s sometimes used as a defense mechanism— to say that you don’t want to go to Berkeley in fear that you might get your hopes up but not get accepted. But that shouldn’t guide you and your actions/words. Remember that your words can discourage others. The same goes for other schools too, when people say that a certain school is a “bad school” or a “back up school.” There are people who actually go there and want to go there, just be mindful. 

Ask me about my experiences at Berkeley and why I love it here. I’ll be glad to share :)