University of California, Berkeley

Let me be clear: UC Berkeley is no walk in the park. It’s intense, it’s competitive, and the pressure can feel suffocating — but at least it’s real. The stakes are high, but so is the standard. People here aren’t faking brilliance or politics for clout. They are brilliant — and if they’re tough on you, it’s because the work demands it, not because they’re protecting some fragile academic ego. Now contrast that with UC Davis, which was hands-down the most fake-deep, bureaucratic, and culturally toxic experience I’ve had in academia. Davis pretends to be collaborative, but underneath the smiling brochures and “friendly” branding is a swamp of gatekeeping, posturing, and performative humility. It’s a place where being independent, curious, or unfiltered makes you a target, not an asset. At Berkeley, you compete with sharp minds. At Davis, you survive shallow power games. At Berkeley, professors are intense but responsive. At Davis, many professors seem checked out, as if your questions are interruptions rather than part of the learning process. At Berkeley, you’re expected to rise to the challenge. At Davis, you’re expected to play nice, flatter the right egos, and not think too loudly. The irony? UC Davis markets itself as more “down to earth” than Berkeley. But in truth, I found Berkeley to be the more honest and direct institution. The pressure is brutal, yes — but it’s not masked by shallow friendliness. You know what you’re signing up for. At UC Davis, the rot is hidden under the surface. You don’t see it until you’re neck-deep in a system that rewards performers, not thinkers, and penalizes anyone who doesn’t “fit.” Berkeley broke me in all the ways high-level academia does — but Davis? Davis insulted my intelligence while pretending to nurture it. UCB = sharp, brutal, but real. UCD = soft on the surface, toxic underneath. If you’re independent, intellectually driven, or allergic to academic theater, UC Davis will wear you down. At least at Berkeley, the challenge is honest. And worth it….

The University of California, Berkeley, is a beacon of academic excellence and innovation, nestled in the vibrant city of Berkeley, California. Renowned for its pioneering spirit, Berkeley fosters a dynamic environment where creativity and critical thinking thrive. The university offers a diverse range of programs across disciplines such as engineering, social sciences, arts, and natural sciences. Its commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration empowers students to tackle complex global challenges with ingenuity and purpose. Berkeley's campus is a blend of historic charm and modern facilities, providing an inspiring backdrop for learning and discovery. The university's dedication to research has led to groundbreaking advancements in fields like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and biotechnology. With a community that celebrates diversity and inclusion, Berkeley is a hub for cultural exchange and intellectual growth. Its alumni network includes trailblazers in science, technology, and social change, reflecting the university's enduring impact on the world.

I recently visited the University of California, Berkeley, and was genuinely inspired by its rich academic culture and historic campus. Walking through Sproul Plaza and around the iconic Sather Tower, I could feel the energy of a place deeply rooted in innovation and social impact. The students and faculty I encountered were friendly, diverse, and passionate about their fields of study. Berkeley’s commitment to academic excellence and public service was evident in everything from the research labs to the community programs. The campus buzzed with activity and intellectual engagement, creating an environment that encourages big ideas and bold thinking. My visit left me with a strong impression of Berkeley as a dynamic, world-class university that truly empowers its students.

This is NOT a campus you want to be on (as a visitor, or as a student!), unless you are prepared to encounter: 1,) NO “wayfinding signs” for ANYTHING, 2.) NO LEVEL GROUND (you are either walking either up-hill or down-hill, CAMOUS WIDE!). Finally, there are ZERO ENGLISH SPEAKING STUDENTS here in the summer! Every student seen on the campus in July was NOT speaking English. An American, English-speaking student will have a very tough time communicating with fellow students here! I guess this what FORCED “multi-cultural assimilation” is all about!

School of Optometry is excellent! More thorough and diligent, polite, exacting, professional, and overall exceptional care. Highly recommend from exam to prescriptions to eyewear.

A little bit dirty, or else, it is great. Do not recommend someone who want to have a walk(unless you wanna exercise).

Very significantly historic university. There is many good stories to everything from the floor to the structure of the buildings. Students here achieve academic excellence and fight for what they believe. Students here fight for justice and come together to be able to do so.

The campus is beautiful and in a decent location not too far from San Francisco. The students are very passionate about what they do and it seems that the school really cares about providing students with clubs, services, and classes that can truly benefit them. It would be an honor to attend this school. A+ from me. Only downside is that it was hard to find good restaurants around there. And I watched a guy get arrested on campus so that was interesting. They don't really have parking options. It's a walking school for sure. The nature and campus is welcoming, gorgeous, and an overall peaceful atmosphere. Truly a beauty.