After completing my finals last semester, I sat on a bench outside of Cal’s Golden Bear Cafe, even though it was a bit rainy. I couldn’t help but take this photo of the beautiful Sather Gate and Campanille.
A photo I took while waiting for my first English class at Cal!
Just about two weeks ago I finished my first year at UC Berkeley as a junior-transfer student (WooHoo!!). Though small, this was a huge accomplishment for me. Let’s just say that the past few months have been insanely challenging, both personally and academically. And this was separate from the fact that I was living on my own for the first time ever and away from my family and friends. Oh, and I was also car-less, which is pretty normal if you’re a college student. I ended up getting a bike, which was pretty exciting.
Protesting against tuition hikes at UCSF
Beautiful view of the Bay Area from the top of the Campanille. Taken after completing my finals (first semester)
In good company – with Mark Twain at UC Berkeley’s Doe Library
So UC Berkeley is the #1 best public school in America and the #3 best university in the world! And let me tell you, it’s not a joke. The words “busy,” “tired,” and “stressed” became more real to me than ever. Another thing– as one of the thousands of students at Cal, it is easy to get discouraged and feel unimportant or less smart. It is especially difficult for a transfer student. But I refused to let that get to me.
Dwinelle bathroom tags! Beautiful words indeed
On top of my 19 unit schedule during the Spring semester, I was in a play (read more here), which was an absolutely incredible experience. Overall, though, I was drained. To keep myself energized, I had make sure I was healthy by getting enough sleep, eating right (meaning I had to go grocery shopping every other week or so), exercising, etc. It was honestly not that easy for me, especially since I’m so attatched to my family and friends back home, and so used to the luxuries of living with my family. But with my busy schedule, my second semester passed by right before my eyes. It feels good to know that I’ve pulled through and persevered! I did it!
Open Lab: Identity and Belonging
I had a completely different experience at Cal than I thought I would, but I am so happy with the decision I made a year ago to attend this school, and if I could, I would totally do it all over again! I’ve made life-long friends and I’ve learned how to live on my own, all while exploring the Bay Area and familiarizing myself with the beautiful city of San Francisco!! Which, by the way, is referred to as “The City” and NOT “San Fran.” That’s an absolute no-no. 😛
Christmas time in The City. Went ice skating with the Cal Quidditch team!
2/17/15 my birthday at Joshu-Ya Brasserie with friends
I truly think I made the best of my time my first year and look forward to taking advantage of all the wonderful opportunities that Cal has to offer during my senior year (BRING IT!!). Until then, I’m so excited now that I’ll have more time to blog!!!
After finishing up with the choatic semester, I’ve set up some personal goals, one of them being blogging more often! So thanks for stopping by and taking the time to read! If you have any advice, questions, or comments, feel free to post below in the comment section!
Love ya’ll! xo
yours truly,
Ani