Home | Victoria Archives

When a reptile dies at the East Bay Vivarium, one of the places it goes to is UC Berkeley's Prep Lab! I've prepped a bunch of things from the EBV, but I've never had a chance to visit the vivarium myself until today. There are so many awesome tortoises and snakes! There was this incredible albino snake that had white and pale yellow bands. I forgot to take a picture of it, unfortunately. Here's a tortoise, though!



This poor guy was trying to go under that huge branch...or maybe he was trying to lift it. Anyways, in both cases, he failed. Twice. Yes, he went around the branch, then doubled back and tried again. Talk about perseverance.

Continue reading "East Bay Vivarium! " »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:54 | Permalink

Hey guys! It's been a while since my last post. My midterms, presentations, and papers are over for now. Finals are just around the corner, though! It's never too early to review! :)

Anyways, wasn't the weather amazing today? The sun was shining and squirrels were scampering everywhere. My dad and my little brother came up to visit us today since it's my brother's spring break. We went out to dinner on Northside and then to Safeway to buy some groceries. It's amazing how much stuff you can buy when you have access to a car. Normally, we only buy as much food as we can carry. So today, my sister and I pretty much stocked up on everything nonperishable. Our plan is to not have to go grocery shopping until after finals, but I'm pretty sure that's not going to happen. Let's see how long we last.

Continue reading "A Breath of Fresh Air" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:02 | Permalink

It's the middle of midterm season and we're all stressing, but that doesn't mean we can't have fun! This morning, I went to Acme Bakery and Cafe Fanny with my sister and a friend. For those of you who haven't been to Acme before, it takes less than 20 minutes to get there via 52L. The bakery itself is very snug (the amount of room for customers inside the store is probably a bit bigger than your desk), but they have a pretty nice selection of freshly baked loaves and a few sweet pastries. Grab a bowl (yes, a bowl, not a cup) of coffee next door at Cafe Fanny and you're set for an excellent breakfast. I've been drinking instant coffee for the past few months, so freshly brewed coffee was like a gift from heaven.

Anyways, take a break from all that studying, if only for an hour or two! Trust me, it'll help. :)

Continue reading "Take a Break!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 5:36 | Permalink

I just finished watching the movie "Julie & Julia." My sister actually gave me the book for my birthday last year. It was an entertaining read, but for some reason, I hadn't thought about watching the movie until today. I thought the movie was pretty good, most likely because I absolutely love food and anything that's even remotely related to food.

Anyways, for the past month or so, I've been feeling less motivated than usual. It seems like everyone around me has so many plans and is so well prepared for the future. All I could think about was everything I should be doing, resulting in nothing being done. I wish I had a guardian angel who encouraged me and kept me on my toes. I'm sorry to admit that I've been pushing away my depressing thoughts by baking batches upon batches of cookies...and eating them all. I've officially become the Cookie Monster.

Continue reading "Inspiration" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:50 | Permalink

I hope you guys are all having a great semester! I feel like the semester just started, but I think I actually have a midterm by the end of this month!

This semester I'm taking General Microbiology (PMB C112), General Microbiology Lab, and Bioethics and Society (ESPM 162). I'm also a UGSI for Prep Lab and I'm still in my research lab. So far, classes have been pretty good. I'm really happy that I'm finally taking the class that defines my major, microbiology. Now I can finally tell people what I think of my major.

Continue reading "Back to Simplicity" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 6:27 | Permalink

Another semester has begun! I hope you guys all had a great winter vacation! My winter vacation was pretty enjoyable. Just last week, my family and I went to visit our grandparents in Chicago. We mostly went shopping for things that our grandma needed, but we also got to visit the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where my mom went for her undergrad. I think our Campanile rivals their clock tower.

Continue reading "Chicago Trip" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:54 | Permalink

One down, two to go. I just took my MCB102 (Biochemistry) final this morning. My next finals aren't until Thursday night and Friday morning, but I know I shouldn't slack off. This is usually easier said than done. There are so many distractions around us. Sometimes even reorganizing your pencil drawer seems more appealing that cracking open that physics book. So here are some tips that might help you focus on your studies:

1) Listen to music
I know a lot of people already do this, but listening to upbeat music that keeps you awake doesn't necessarily help you focus on your studying. I like listening to instrumental music, so there are no lyrics to distract me. Instrumental music also has a great calming effect.

2) Drink something, but don't eat anything
I always try to convince myself that eating M&Ms while studying will help me focus. It doesn't. I wind up being more interested in eating the chocolate than trying to understand the physics problem. When you eat, you actually read more slowly, which makes your studying less effective. Drinking coffee, tea, or even hot water, however, helps me to focus. My logic is: drink more fluids --> body functions better --> you'll feel better --> you'll be able to concentrate on whatever you're studying!

Continue reading "Tips to Help you Focus" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:41 | Permalink

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope everyone's enjoying the break. Once we come back, we only have a week of class left! It's time to start studying for finals! I actually have some classes during the week of the 7th because some of my professors had planned their syllabus before the new academic calendar was determined.

So this past weekend, I went to Mendocino with my California Mushrooms class. The cabins were infinitely better than the ones at the Redwood Forest, but the mushroom hunting was much more exciting at Redwood Forest.

Continue reading "Mendocino Fieldtrip" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 1:18 | Permalink

Last weekend, I went to Redwood Forest with my CA Mushrooms class! I've wanted to go to the Redwood Forest for the longest time, but somehow never managed to find the time to. Even though it's a 6 hour drive there, it was totally worth it. We got there on Friday night around 10 pm, so most of us marched off to the cabins. My professor described the cabins as "Spartan, wooden plank bunks and a single light bulb." I'll let you guys be the judge of that:



The cabins were ice-cold! I actually spent Saturday night sleeping in a chair in the dining hall because it was warmer in there.

Continue reading "Redwood Forest" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:15 | Permalink

I'm pretty sure you guys are tired of hearing about my indecisiveness, but I just wanted to say that I've decided what to do! Well, for now, at least. I'm definitely not going to graduate early so that I can spend my time wisely at Berkeley. For next semester, I'm already signed up to take PMB C112/L (General Microbiology and Lab) and ESPM 12 (Bioethics). The only problem is that on Thursday, the bioethics lecture goes from 2-3:30 and the microbio lab lecture goes from 3-4 pm. I really hope one of them is webcast, but I highly doubt it. Perhaps I can find a nice friend in one of the classes who will let me copy his or her notes for the last 20 minutes of bioethics or for the first 20 minutes of lab lecture.

Continue reading "Final Decision" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:15 | Permalink

I thought I had decided not to graduate early, but now I'm on the fence, again. I talked to my mom about it and she said it was my decision, but that I could get a job and save money for medical school if I do graduate early. I'm basically going to be living in a box and eating ramen everyday in medical school. :( Hopefully not, but close enough.

Anyways, I've been trying to plan out my schedule for my remaining semesters. I still have to take PMB C112/L (General Microbiology), MCB 104 (Genetics, Genomics, and Cell Bio), MCB C148 (Microbial Genetics and Genomics), and 2 electives. For my electives, I really want to take Biology of Fungi and Biology of Algae, but neither one is offered next spring, so I might take Soil Microbiology, instead. I'm currently in a research lab that's 4 units a semester, so that more than 12 hours/ week. Starting from next semester, I'm probably going to be a UGSI for the Prep Lab class, which is either 1 or 2 units. So I'm down for at least 5 units a semester already. I work at least 10 hours a week. I'm also premed, so I have to think about allocating time to do med school apps next fall semester. I'd love some advice on any of these classes! Please and thank you!

Continue reading "Decisions, Part II" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 5:31 | Permalink

As I'm sure you all noticed, the storm on Tuesday was horrible, so why am I so glad it rained? Because mushrooms are popping up now! I'm in California Mushrooms, an upper division elective for Microbial Biology, and we have to collect mushrooms for our personal collection to turn in. We were supposed to have 50 points of our collection by this coming Monday, but it's been postponed to the following Monday. I was totally stressed out before Tuesday since it hadn't rained for weeks and the only mushrooms I could find were little brown mushrooms (LBMs) and they're extremely hard to key out.

Yesterday, I was just walking to class and I spotted these gorgeous marshmallow-looking mushrooms! They were white with a dark brown center and covered in small brown fibrils. I wish I took a picture of them, but they're in the lab drying now and by the time I get them back, they'll look quite different from when they were fresh. I can't remember the name of those off the top of my head, so I'll just leave you guys to wonder.

Continue reading "Thank heavens it rained!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 7:39 | Permalink

As you all know, Telebears season is upon us, again. Be sure to make an appointment with your advisor and figure out which classes to take next semester. Remember that some classes are only offered either spring or fall semester, so plan wisely. You don't want to have to stay an extra semester because you have to take that one upper division course requirement.

So I met with my advisor, Trey, this past Friday. After looking over my DARS report, he told me that I only had 5 more courses to take in order to graduate! The only problem is that I can't decide whether I should graduate early or spread out those 5 classes over the next 3 semesters. Most of the people I've asked said they wouldn't graduate a semester early.

Continue reading "Decisions, Decisions..." »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:36 | Permalink

For PMB 113, California Mushrooms, we have to sign up to collect mushrooms for the lab section. On Saturday, my friend and I went to the Berkeley Marina to collect mushrooms. We went quite early in the morning, around 8 or 9 am, and stayed until 11 am. At first we didn't find anything, but once we found the first little brown mushroom, we started seeing them everywhere! I'm pretty sure we collected at least five different types of LBMs (little brown mushrooms, not all of them brown), two types of shelf fungi, an inky cap, an earthstar, puffballs, some slimy mushrooms, and some Agaricus mushrooms. They're all sitting in my fridge right now. Hopefully they're still intact for lab tomorrow.

Some type of Agaricus, I think...

Continue reading "Mushroom Hunting" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:40 | Permalink

Are you tired of finding moldy strawberries at Safeway? I am. Yes, I know I sound slightly like a commercial. So, in an attempt to find fresher produce, my sister and I went to one of Berkeley's Farmers' Market today. There are actually three Farmers' Markets in Berkeley: one each on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. If you guys are interested, visit this website for locations and other information:

http://www.ecologycenter.org/bfm/

So the one that my sister and I went to today is located about a block down Center from the Downtown Berkeley Bart Station. We went around 10 am, but there were already quite a few people there. There were a variety of vendors, offering fresh produce, fruit, fresh baked bread, and even beeswax candles! We wandered through the entire farmers' market once to see everything and then turned around to make some purchases. Since most of the fruit and vegetables are certified organic and locally grown, they were a bit on the expensive side. Even thought the produce is extremely fresh, I wasn't sure I'd be able to taste the difference between a $2.00/lb tomato and a $0.67/lb tomato. So instead of buying all our groceries there, we tried to buy stuff that we wouldn't be able to find at Safeway.

Continue reading "Berkeley Farmers' Market" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:45 | Permalink

I'm taking PMB 113, California Mushrooms, this semester. I've been wanting to take this class since my fall semester Freshman year. It sounds pretty intense, but extremely interesting at the same time. The class is mainly focused on how to identify and collect different types of mushrooms. The professor is extremely enthusiastic, and I love how the class is really hands-on. The class includes lab every week and occasional field trips over the weekend. The only bad thing about it is that I really don't like the smell of mushrooms, so being in lab for three hours with mushrooms makes me a bit noxious.

On another note, I also detest eating mushrooms. Luckily, we don't have to eat mushrooms in this class. Anyways, I'm always raving about how amazing Cheeseboard Pizza is, so I asked my sister when she wanted to go. She chose yesterday to go to Cheeseboard because they were serving Cremini Mushroom Pizza. Unlike me, my sister loves mushrooms and usually takes all the mushrooms I don't want. I was going to be brave and trust that everything at Cheeseboard is good, including mushroom pizza, but in the end, I opted to eat a load of Kudos bars, instead. Oops.

Continue reading "Edible Fungi" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 5:39 | Permalink

My sister and I moved in all our stuff yesterday. The bunkbed took forever to assemble. I thought IKEA was supposed to be easy. We're living at Berkeleyan and it's way nicer than my 2 previous studios.

I've been meaning to post pictures from the last time I was in Berkeley for my sister's CalSO. My mom and I stayed at the Berkeley Marina DoubleTree Hotel. The scenery was beautiful! We were only about ten steps from the water!

Continue reading "Back in Berkeley!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 8:54 | Permalink

I just got back from taking my actual MCAT. I can't say that I'm jumping for joy at how well I think I've done. The room was freezing! I spent most of the biological sciences section rubbing my arms. The essay prompts were really weird, so I'm pretty sure I failed those. I did not do well on the Verbal section...I was like, "What are you talking about!?!? Stop confusing me!!!"

The only good thing I can say is that at least it's over. I'll get the results in about 1 month, so from now til then, I'll just try to forget it. I'm probably going to take it, again...perhaps over winter break. Maybe my reading comprehension will magically go up a few points from reading Biochem...one can only hope.

Today's my last day in SoCal...well, technically, tomorrow is since we're leaving for Berkeley at 4 am. Anyways, enjoy the last few days of summer!!!

Continue reading "THE MCAT" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 9:37 | Permalink

Sorry for scaring you guys with my title, but I'm pretty stressed about my upcoming MCAT exam. The real one. It's next Friday. I only have a week to do well on the test that will determine my future. So...no pressure, right?

Although medical schools tend to look at your highest MCAT score, people generally take it twice, at most. Scores are good for up to three years. I just really want to score well on my first time and have this over with. I know the medical schools look at other stuff besides the MCAT score, but it still plays a very significant part in your admission. I actually ran into a retired UCLA medical school admissions officer at the library the other day. I didn't get to ask her anything, though, since we were in the restroom and it would've been kind of awkward to detain her with my questions.

Continue reading "Panic!!!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:23 | Permalink

Sounds like an oxymoron, right? Yesterday, my sister told me about this website www.freerice.com. You basically get tested on vocabulary and for every one you get right, ten grains of rice are donated to the UN World Food Program to end hunger.

I was supposed to be studying yesterday, but I spent about an hour or so playing on this website, instead. On the bright side, because of my boredom, over 3000 grains of rice are going to be donated to help end hunger! Plus, I learned a bunch of cool new words! My new favorite word is footle, which means 'to waste time.' "I footled so much today." "Stop footling!" I just think it's a hilarious word.

So next time you're bored, go on this website, learn some new vocab, and help end hunger! Tip: if the word looks weird, it's most likely an animal. Gerenuk=gazelle. Who knew? I certainly didn't.

Wow! I just found out that you can select between a variety of subjects, so not just vocab! They have art, geography, and even language learning!! How awesome is that? I think I'll go try out the Italian one now. I want to go to Italy someday.

Continue reading "Productive Boredom" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 7:10 | Permalink

I hope everyone's having a great summer! I really wish I hadn't forgotten my camera battery recharger at Berkeley (I'm in SoCal right now). Anyways, my sister's already packing up stuff in preparation for the move to college. For incoming freshmen, or anyone interested, here are some things that I think you guys might find helpful to do:

1. get a credit card
I know a lot of us out there have credit cards that our parents gave us, but it's really important to have your own credit card issued from your own bank account in order to build credit. I remember trying to apply for a credit card after my senior year of high school, but I kept getting rejected because I had no credit. I finally had to walk into the bank, sit down, and talk to someone to set up a student checking account. This is much easier than trying to do it online or anything, because chances are, you won't be able to.

2. Visit the Tang Center
The Tang Center is the university's health services building. It's located on Bancroft, about 2 blocks down from Telegraph. I'm not sure if it's on the checklist of things you guys have to do, but it's really important to give them a copy of your health and immunization record. You'll also be issued a "gold card" if you paid for SHIP. I'm not sure if you get one if you're not on SHIP. I know SHIP costs a lot, but my mom's logic is that if anything happens to me in Berkeley, it's much more convenient and accessible to depend on the Tang Center and pay the SHIP fees, instead of dealing with a whole mess of equivalent insurance later on. I would also recommend getting a meningitis shot.

Continue reading "Prep for Cal!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 6:22 | Permalink

It's been about a week since my MCAT classes started. Before I tell you about the classes themselves, here's some info about the MCAT. The test is organized into four sections:

-Physical Sciences
-Verbal
-Writing (2 essays)
-Biological Sciences

The four sections basically cover all the premed reqs. The test takes about 5 hours to complete, with 10 minute breaks between each section. Notice that half the test isn't even science! You get 30 minutes to write each essay. I think that's where I have the most trouble on. I've always despised in-class essays because I can never come up with the correct word or how to phrase it the way I want in that short period of time. In college, when I write papers, I take at least a week to organize everything and write a million drafts.

Continue reading "MCAT classes" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 9:16 | Permalink

As I've mentioned before, this summer I'm basically taking an MCAT review course and studying for the MCAT. The review course doesn't start until June 15th, so I'm trying to do some review by myself. I left most of my study materials at Berkeley because my luggage was already too heavy. I'm going back up to Berkeley on June 5th to get the rest of it while my sister attends her CalSO. I actually weighed my ochem study materials...30 pounds!

I just started reviewing today. I was supposed to start yesterday, but I got lazy. I bow down to those who are taking summer school. I really admire how they can still plow on with courses after the semester just ended. I've only skimmed a couple of chapters from Chem 1A and I fell asleep. I feel like the information's pretty easy, but at the same time, I'm afraid that I'm overconfident and I really don't want to find out that I'm incompetent on the actual MCAT.

Continue reading "Motivation for Summer" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 6:57 | Permalink

As the title implies, I'm home in SoCal! I wish I could say it's nice and sunny right now, but it isn't. Hopefully, the sun will come out soon. I'm pretty sure most of us are sleeping in right now since finals are over. I'm not really sure why, but I keep waking up at 6 am and I can't fall asleep, again. None of my friends get up this early, so it's pretty boring sitting here.

Anyways, I'm going to go back up to Berkeley with my sister for her CalSO. As I mentioned before, she's a business major, intended Haas. I'm not really clear on the requirements to get into Haas, so I can't really help her plan out her first semester at Cal. For freshman science majors out there, here are some courses I would suggest for your first semester:

Chemistry 1A - I think every freshman takes this class first, probably because it's a prereq for everything else.

Math 16A/1A, depending on how much you love math. The Math 16 series satisfies most of the CNR requirements. MCB majors over in L& S have to take the Math 1 series.

Breadth requirement

Continue reading "Home, Once Again" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 9:21 | Permalink

Pun! Anyways, summer's almost here! I'm pretty sure we can almost taste the freedom. I have a few friends who go to the other UC schools and they're already looking forward to summer, but they don't end until mid June.

I just took my Bio 1A final this morning and got my Bio 1AL Exam 2 back...that was utterly depressing. I'm sort of just praying that some miracle will happen and make the curve extremely generous. I still have my Physics 8A final on Monday night...and then I'm free!!!

Continue reading "The Final Stretch" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 1:18 | Permalink

My neighbor tends to play on his trumpet and sing badly all day long...quite distracting and annoying when you're trying to study. So here are some methods that I use to help me focus:

1) Play classical music
Music is supposed to stimulate the mind, but I find that music with lyrics (no pun intended) can get stuck in my mind, which can get pretty frustrating.

2) Get ear plugs
They work pretty well, but don't wear them for too long. They make you feel kind of funny, like you've been trapped inside your own head...or maybe that's just me.

3) Re-energize with food!
Just something that will give you an energy boost, like a few slices of toast with a glass of milk. Junk food will make you feel lethargic and you'll probably end up watching tv, instead of studying.

Continue reading "Study Tips" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 8:22 | Permalink

Only 6 more days of school...and a few more days for finals. My panic hasn't really set in, yet. I have 2 finals and a paper due this coming Thursday and 2 more finals after that. I really should be panicking by now, especially over physics. I'm not particularly fond of physics and I really do not want to restudy everything for the final. Why must finals be cumulative?

I just spent this past weekend in a cocoon of blankets on my bed, with my laptop as my source of warmth. My heater has like a one foot radius of warmth, so it's pretty much useless to turn it on. It's actually a pretty comfortable way to study, except I can't really sit up straight in my bunk bed.

Continue reading "Almost There!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 1:30 | Permalink

Someone commented on my previous entry and asked me a few questions:

1) Do I plan on going into medicine after graduation?

Yes, I do. I'm probably going to go straight to medical school, unless I don't get in. *knocks on wood* I want to study pediatrics and later maybe specialize in neonatal pediatrics.

2) Is CNR suitable for someone pursuing medicine?

I think so. All of the science majors have the same lower division requirements, which are the same ones needed for medical school. The generic major for premeds is MCB in L&S, but everyone's MCB. Microbial Biology (my major) is pretty similar to MCB. A lot of my upper division requirements and electives are MCB courses. Besides these courses, however, CNR offers a lot of interesting classes that you won't get in MCB, like Light MIcroscopy and California Mushrooms. Also, remember that your CNR advisor will always be there for you without the long line.

Continue reading "My Future?" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 9:44 | Permalink

Even though midterm season two is over for most of us, we need to start focusing on what we're going to do for summer. Hopefully, most of you guys have already thought about this and applied to research or other programs. If not, you guys should check out the Career Center's website or visit the Career Center and ask about summer programs with late deadlines. You can also email professors to inquire about volunteer opportunities.

Anyways, this summer I'm going to go home to SoCal, again. We're actually moving this summer! Still SoCal, though. Since my sister is coming to Cal, my mom and my brother don't need that much space, so they're going to get a smaller place. Besides moving, I'm considering taking an MCAT prep course, but I keep switching back and forth on that decision. If you guys have any helpful advice, I'd love to hear your comments. If I do take the MCAT course, it'll be at night, so I'll be free the rest of the day. I'm hoping to get into a research lab, but if that doesn't happen, I'll just get a job.

Continue reading "Time to Plan!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 9:37 | Permalink

So everyone here at Cal is pretty much submerged in piles of study materials for the second round of midterms. While we're stressing about exams and papers, high school seniors are probably stressing about which college to go to. Here are some things to take into consideration:

1. Remember that it is your choice
Wherever you choose to go, you're basically going to be there for 4 years. You're going to be away from your family, most of your friends, and the comforts of home. That said, choose somewhere you want to go. While your parents may have your best interests in mind, you don't want to be totally unhappy attending a college that you were forced to go to.

2. Check out the programs
I'm pretty sure most high school seniors have already checked out the programs each college has to offer. If you want to be a science major, attend to a college that has a strong science department, not one that's known for law.

Continue reading "The Decision" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:19 | Permalink

Today's my little brother 10th birthday! He was so excited to finally be 2 digits! Anyways, for those of you that don't know, today's also the day people find out if they got into Cal or not. My sister just checked online a few minutes ago...and she GOT IN!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so excited! My voice is actually hoarse from screaming for joy. My sister and I have been daydreaming about this day for the past two years. We're going to be roommates, again!

I think I've gotten closer to my sister ever since I went off to college. I call her everyday just to chat about how our day went and what we should do next time I'm back in SoCal. I already have a whole list of things and places to take my sister to when she finally gets here. Here are my random musings:

Continue reading "Awesomeness!!!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 8:53 | Permalink

The past few days have been pretty challenging, to put it nicely. Yesterday, I completely messed up on my physics midterm. My pencil ran out of lead about half an hour into the exam and I didn't have an extra one. I had just lost my extra pencil earlier that day. Just my luck. So I had to use pen on my physics midterm. I decided to write my answer in the test booklet first, then transfer over to my blue book. Unfortunately, when I transferred my answer, I copied down a sign wrong so my whole answer is off. I also messed up completely on the last problem. I think my brain just decided to take a vacation during my test...

So after the midterm, I had to go home and finish a paper due today at 9:30 am in class. My printer had just run out of ink on Monday, so I ordered ink with next day shipping. They tried delivering it yesterday at 6 pm, but I was taking my physics midterm. My roommate said she would print it out for me today, but then that printer ran out of ink. I sprinted to CNR around 9 am and finally managed to print my paper! Thank heavens for the CNR computer lab!

By the way, there's a CNR movie night tonight! Free movie and pizza! Could it get any better?

Continue reading "Saved by CNR!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 7:08 | Permalink

I have a younger sister who might be coming to Cal next year. We won't know until the week of spring break, but we're all keeping our fingers crossed! Anyways, in the middle of my studying for Bio 1A (midterm this Wednesday!), I started daydreaming, again. I usually daydream about stuff my sister and I can do when she gets here, stuff I have to do, where we're going to live...so I guess my daydreams are kind of useful?

So, here's a list of things that I think every Cal student needs to survive...literally:

1) umbrella (looks like rain for another 10 days straight...)
2) rain boots
-I don't have rain boots, but I really need them! My right shoe has this hole in it that lets all the water in. I actually ventured out into the rain today in search of rain boots, but I couldn't find a pair in my size. I went to Walgreens (didn't have any), Bancroft Clothing ($40 for boots a size too big? no, thanks), and Wet Seal (none). I'm considering ordering some on Amazon, but I think you really have to try shoes on before you buy them.
3) Brita filter
-Unless you want to spend a load of money on bottled water.

Continue reading "Essentials for Berkeley" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 6:08 | Permalink

The Chinese New Year always falls on a different day since it's based on the lunar calendar. In some countries, everyone gets about 9 days off to celebrate the new year. People usually celebrate by eating the traditional foods: fish, meat, long noodles, clementines, lettuce, dumplings...the chinese names for these foods sound like "prosperity" and "luck," so people eat them in hope that the new year will bring luck and prosperity, too.

I wish I could've spent Chinese New Year with my family. I can't wait to go home for spring break. Only one and a half months away! I've also decided not to stay in Berkeley this summer and go back to Socal and take an MCAT prep class, instead.

Anyways, happy Chinese New Year!

Continue reading "Happy Chinese New Year!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 1:29 | Permalink

You're probably wondering what's up with the odd title. Back at Cal, my roommate and I always talked about how we seem to revert back to our old selves when we go back home. Like, sometimes we feel like we're two different people: the one at Cal who takes buses to Safeway and the one who relaxes at home with all the luxuries. Now that I'm at home, sitting on a sofa for the first time in 4 months, I really don't want to go back to my studio in Cal.

Whenever I go back home, I'm usually extremely happy to cook and bake a bunch of stuff for my family. It's pretty funny since I'm so lazy in my studio at Berkeley. I usually pig out on junk food for dinner when I'm at school. Horrible, I know.

Another thing I've noticed is that my parents tend to treat me the same way they did before I left for college. In their eyes, I'm pretty much still a little kid who needs permission to go hang out with friends. It feels kind of strange since I can basically do whatever I want whenever I want at Berkeley. I don't really do anything my parents wouldn't approve of, though, I think. I've been told that I don't have much of a college life. I don't really mind. I'm pretty content with my experience right now.

Anyways, I hope you guys are having fun over break!

Continue reading "Chameleon" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:55 | Permalink

So a few posts back, I mentioned that my dad wanted to bring us to Arizona. We were going to go this summer, but my dad decided to go this winter break, instead.

We left on the morning of the 26th and drove about 8 hours to Mesa, where we went to my dad's friend's Italian restaurant. Their bread was amazing. It was a rustic type of bread, hard crust but chewy on the inside. I ate an entire loaf...the food was taking a while to arrive. Every time I go to an Italian restaurant, I always order Eggplant Parmesan. I'm not vegetarian and I used to hate eggplant, but this dish can be really yummy. Anyways, after dinner in Mesa, we drove to Tempe and spent the night watching ''The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,' which was pretty interesting.

We were up bright and early the next day (Arizona's an hour ahead of California) and drove to Sedona, home of the red rocks. Here's a picture:

Continue reading "Arizona Trip" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 8:59 | Permalink

Happy New Years!!! Do you guys have any New Year's Resolutions? I always do, but I usually only stick to them for about a week...

These are my New Year's Resolutions so far:

1) Not pig out on junk food...I eat waaaay too much junk food...so so bad
2) Exercise...
3) NO slacking off!!! I really can't afford to since I'm taking Bio 1A/AL and Physics 8A this coming semester...yes, I'm basically toast

Anyways, I hope everyone's having a great time and relaxing at home. Enjoy the break!!

Continue reading "New Year's Resolutions" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 8:52 | Permalink

Merry Christmas! Have you guys opened presents, yet? :) I hope everyone's having a great time over the break. I'm home in SoCal right now with my family. Spending holidays with family just make them that much more special for me.

Anyways, I'm the only one up in my house right now. We stayed up pretty late last night just chatting away. I wish I was still asleep. I'm not sleepy, but I feel like I should make use of the holidays to sleep as much as possible. For some odd reason, I haven't been able to sleep past 7 or 8 am, even when I go to bed at 3 am. Anyways, enough about my sleeping patterns.

Continue reading "Happy Holidays!!!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 8:28 | Permalink

Falling asleep on your textbook? I've done that a few times. I just wanted to rest my eyes for a few minutes, but I ended up taking a short nap and waking up with my face stuck to the textbook page. The short nap did revive me a bit, but what if that short nap had lasted longer? Like, a couple of hours? I know some people who study on couches and end up falling asleep for several hours. That's quite a bit of study time. So, here's my list of things you can do to stay awake while crunching for finals:

1) Drink something caffeinated
-For a while, I drank hot coffee every morning to stay awake and keep warm. After about a week or two of this, the effect of the coffee kind of wears off. Also, coffee tends to make you crash a few hours after you finish drinking it. I drank some green tea with honey today and that seemed to work quite well. I didn't crash at all and the tea made me feel completely refreshed.

Continue reading "Ways to Stay Awake" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:39 | Permalink

Yes, I know it seems a bit earlier to start thinking about summer plans, but a lot of internship programs actually start recruiting now. I really don't know what I'm going to do this summer. My dad wants to bring me and my siblings on a tour of China, but I really can't afford to slack off the entire summer. Maybe I can convince my dad to bring us to Arizona for a few days, instead. He's always talking about bringing us to see the "beautiful rocks" there. Anyways, here are my tentative plans for summer:

- Take MCB 102
I know a lot of advisors say summer school isn't always the best way to spend your summer, but in this case I think it's valid. MCB 102 is one of the hardest classes here at Cal, but I heard that it's much more do-able over the summer. I'm just going to take this one class, so even if it's killer, I only have to concentrate on that one course. MCB 102 is an eight-week course over the summer and for the summer of 2009, it's going to be from June 22nd to August 14th. Since spring semester ends on May 21st, I'll have an entire month before plunging into more school work! :) Also, next fall semester doesn't start until August 20th, so I'll have about a week to relax.

Continue reading "Planning Ahead for Summer" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:10 | Permalink

Thanksgiving break is just around the corner! I hope you guys are going home for break. I just feel like Thanksgiving should be spent with your family.

I'm flying back on the Thursday morning...because I ordered my tickets a bit on the late side...oops. Anyways, instead of having a whole gigantic 20 pound turkey this year, my mom decided that we should each have our own Cornish hen. They look like miniature chickens. We're each going to season our own Cornish hen with whatever flavors we want. I'm still trying to decide whether to go for an Asian taste (ginger, scallions, hint of sesame oil) or an herby lemon with root vegetables.

Continue reading "Thanksgiving Plans!!!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 8:21 | Permalink

:) I'm finally done with my second round of midterms!!! I can finally take a breath and feel completely relaxed. I hope everyone else is close to finishing his or her midterms. Good luck!!!

Yesterday, after I got home from the Bio IB midterm (6-7pm), I was surprisingly productive. Well, after failing at trying to make some sense out of my organic chemistry lab for my write up, I gave up and decided to clean my studio. I chloroxed the entire kitchen and bathroom and threw away a bunch of junk! XD Throwing away stuff just makes me happy for some odd reason.

Anyways, even though midterms are over, finals are looming just around the corner. My

Continue reading "Over and Done With" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 7:46 | Permalink

Now that the second round of midterms is upon is, I think we all feel a bit like hermits, trapped in our apartments or the library with our study materials. I remember after the first round of midterms, I literally squinted against the sunlight, thinking, "Eek! Sunlight! It burns!!!"

I really wish I could take a break this Friday for Halloween, but I really can't afford to slack off from studying. Anyways, while studying for Chem 3B, I came across some interesting facts that might amuse you guys:

Continue reading "Random Facts from OChem" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 6:01 | Permalink

For my microbial biology major, I'm taking Techniques in Light Microscopy, which is an upper division elective PMB course. There's one hour of lab each week where we get to use different microscopy techniques to look at everyday items. For example, today we practiced polarized light microscopy (PLM) and looked at corn starch, cellulose, and sand. Then, we looked at Safeway's 100% Parmesan Cheese. It was definitely not 100% cheese. Using the microscope, we saw that it was more like 30% cheese. What's the other 70%? Starch and cellulose. The ingredients list on the parmesan shaker does list cellulose, but does not mention starch. What if you were allergic to corn starch?

Continue reading "Is that really 100%?" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 6:53 | Permalink

I know everyone's really stressed out about midterms and papers right now, but I just wanted to tell you guys to take a break. You won't fail your midterm just because you didn't study every single possible minute. Trust me, pulling an all-nighter does not work. You end up zoning out a third of the way through the exam.

So, when you're feeling overwhelmed and you feel like you can't shove any more information into your brain, take a break and relax for a bit...not too long, but long enough to destress your system so you can study some more! Here are some things you can do to destress:

Continue reading "Destress" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 1:13 | Permalink

Even though I'm a microbial biology major, I feel like I'm going to be more of a MCB major simply because most of the upper division electives for the MB major are MCB classes! I wish there were more microbiology classes offered at Cal. I've always wanted to take 'Food Microbiology,' but I just found out that it's not offered anymore! The professor retired and no one else wants to teach it.

So, I did some online browsing and found that the University of Hong Kong actually offers a Microbiology major with a LOT of interesting microbiology courses. HKU is one of the universities that participate in the UC's EAP program, which is the study abroad program. I think studying abroad would be amazing. Not only will you experience academic life in a different country, but also take courses that may not be offered here at Cal. You can check out the EAP website here:

http://www.eap.ucop.edu/

Continue reading "Studying Abroad..." »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 9:39 | Permalink

Like I've said before, college totally changes your eating schedule. You eat when you have time, and in my case, I eat whenever I'm bored. Anyways, right now I'm sitting in my studio and craving vegetable tempura. My roommate and I went to CU Sushi for dinner. I had spicy tuna rolls and vegetable tempura...but yes, I'm still craving vegetable tempura. I'm actually craving the veggie tempura from that one Japanese restaurant in the South Side Asian Ghetto. CU Sushi was ok. They have this 1/2 off menu that's pretty reasonable, but their service isn't the best. My roommate went there for dinner about a week ago with some friends, so she knew that they give you a bowl of edamame as appetizers. Our server didn't give us any, so we asked for some.

Continue reading "Midnight Cravings" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 3:43 | Permalink

What are they? Every professor and GSI at UC Berkeley has blocks of time each week during which students are welcome to go into their office and ask them questions. I know it might seem daunting to approach your professor with a seemingly stupid question, but you'd be surprised how willing some of the professors are to share their knowledge.

This semester I'm taking Bio 1B, which is basically plant biology. I took AP biology in high school, but even then, I never really understood the life cycle of a pine. Megaspore...megosporophyll...megasporocyte...they all sounded the same to me! Back then, I just blankly memorized the steps for the exam and forgot all about it immediately afterwards.

Continue reading "Office Hours" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:53 | Permalink

Another semester of Cal has started. When I looked at my schedule yesterday, I got pretty depressed. Biology 1B lecture from 8-9 am, Biology Discussion from 9-10, then Bio lab from 10-1 pm. Then, I read the syllabus and noted that Bio discussions and labs didn't start until after September 8th! I was so happy! So I only had one hour of class today. Now, instead of having class, I have all this free time that I don't know what to do with.

It's so interesting. When I'm back home in SoCal, I don't really miss Cal at all. When I'm back, however, I remember all things I miss: the Campanile bells, CNR, and just the whole atmosphere of the Berkeley campus. For some odd reason, just being on the campus makes me feel more studious. Sitting in Bio lecture this morning, I felt like I was ready for another semester of school.

Continue reading "First Day of Class" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 9:33 | Permalink

So if you've been reading my posts, you'll know that I've been volunteering at a Neuroscience Lab. I did that for about five weeks, but the last week before I went back to Berkeley, my family and I went camping in Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe is about three hours northeast of Berkeley. It's on the border between California and Nevada. It was really awesome up there! This camping trip totally made me feel satisfied about my summer. It was just really relaxing and it felt nice just spending time with my family.

Continue reading "Lake Tahoe" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:21 | Permalink

I hope everyone's having a great summer! Thank you to those who read my blogs and leave comments. If you have a question about something we've mentioned in our blogs, feel free to post a question.

For those who love reading Fresh Faces blogs and want to become a blogger themselves, it's really easy! The only requirements are:

1) you're in CNR
2) are interested in posting regularly over the semesters

Just email our webmaster, Eva St. Clair, at webmaster@nature.berkeley.edu and she'll be happy to help you!

Continue reading "Wanna be a Fresh Faces blogger?" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:59 | Permalink

It's almost 4 am right now...I've been up trying to plan out which classes to take this upcoming semester and the semesters to come. The online schedule of classes is always down from 2 am to 4 am...so I'm waiting to check whether the class I want to take is still available.

Telebears Phase II should be coming up for most people. There was a glitch in the Telebears system a few days ago. I'm not sure if they fixed it or not, but apparently, people's Telebears Phase II appointments have been changed to about 10 days earlier than their original scheduled time. Check to see if your time has changed! I hope everyone gets into the classes he or she

Continue reading "Planning...yet again..." »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 3:46 | Permalink

I never used to have such a bad addiction to junk food. I think it all started in college. For most people, once they get to college, they're free from parental control...which can be good and bad. No one nagging you about cleaning your room...no one reminding you not to overdo it on the cereal...

For some odd reason, many college students are addicted to cereal, but why? Is it because of the sugars or the munchiness and convenience of this "breakfast" food? I don't eat cereal for breakfast anymore; I eat it all the time. There were days at Berkeley where I would go through

Continue reading "Junk Food Addiction" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:06 | Permalink

Hey! I haven't posted for a while...I've actually been busy volunteering at a Neuroscience Lab at the Research Institute of the Children's Hospital of Orange County. I haven't really done much. It's mostly just shadowing this lab technician guy and this other scientist.

So, enough about work. Summer's for fun! About one and a half weeks ago, I went to the Orange County fair with a few friends. The fair goes on til August 3rd, so go if you want! It only costs $2 to get in, but you have to buy tickets to go on the rides...each ride is about $4...so it's not really worth it for the rides. I'm really scared of heights, so roller coasters totally freak me

Continue reading "OC Fair" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 9:57 | Permalink

Hey! I hope everyone's summer is going well! I haven't been really productive...I just sit around the house all day...cooking, baking, watching tv, eating...anyways, I'm really obsessed with food. One of my favorite things to do is reading up on recipes. I usually make stuff based on what's about to go bad in the kitchen...in this case, bananas.

Banana Bread

Continue reading "Foooood!!!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 9:31 | Permalink

Summer break!!! I'm not taking summer school or anything, so I'm trying to get some clinical experience down here in SoCal. ...not as easy as it sounds....I sent in volunteer applications in February or March to a number of hospitals, but none of them got back to me. So far, I've dropped by two hospitals to ask them in person about the volunteer opportunities. One of them gave me a phone number that no one answers and the other one gave me an application.

Continue reading "What to do over the summer..." »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 6:36 | Permalink

We're almost there! Well, for some people, finals are already over. I still have one more final on Tuesday morning.

Advice: Know the location of your final before you get there. Always head out to the location of your final about half an hour before it begins.

My first final was on Thursday at 12:30. Instead of going to Haas Pavilion for the final, I actually went to the classroom. Luckily I headed out early around noon...about 12:15 I walked into Dwinelle and realized that that wasn't the location of the final! I ended up semi-sprinting to Haas. It was really stuffy in there! Hot day + sweating people + people without tissues + final = complete annoyance. Let's just say I tried to get out of there as soon as possible.

Continue reading "Almost....." »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 4:31 | Permalink

Everyone's probably studying for finals, but summer's just around the corner!!! Even though I'm supposed to be concentrating on studying for finals, I keep daydreaming about what I'm going to do this summer. I know I should try to be productive and volunteer or work somewhere doing something that's related to the medical field, but...staying at home and getting a fun summer job sounds so much more appealing.
A few months ago, I applied for volunteer positions at some hospitals near home, but I haven't heard from any of them, yet. Even though you probably think you have to do something productive every summer of your college career, some experts say you should just take it easy summer of freshman year. You still have a few more summers to show those graduate schools how productive you can be. Why not take a well-deserved vacation? Or get a fun summer job?
If I don't hear back from any of the places I submitted applications to, I'll probably just get a fun summer job and hang out with my friends and family all summer long.

Continue reading "Last Minute Stuff" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 3:28 | Permalink

Don't worry. You're not alone. Even though the second wave of midterms is over, finals are looming just around the corner. Just perfect. On top of that, everyone probably has a paper due sometime in the next few weeks.

I have a paper due in about a week. Whenever I write papers, I always feel like I'm trying to complete a jigsaw puzzle. First, I write random paragraphs, or parts of paragraphs, to just get down all my ideas. Then I have to fit all the pieces together and smooth it all out. Papers take such a long time for me to write. I've always been envious of those people who can crank out an A paper the night before it's due. No wonder I'm a science major.

Besides the paper, I keep getting this feeling that I really should start studying for my Chemistry 3A final. Chemistry 3A is the first part of Organic Chemistry. A few days ago, I read over the notes I took since the last midterm and my head literally hurt after an hour.

Continue reading "Stressed?!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 8:35 | Permalink

Everyone's starting to look for apartments and it's getting really competitive. My potential roommates and I walked all over Berkeley today to look at apartments. We did that last weekend, too.

Advice Check out Craigslist for Apartment showings! The website lists the number of bedrooms, rent, and other features included with the apartment.

Even if it looks good on the website, you really need to go see the apartment itself. My friends and I saw this one on craigslist and it seemed pretty good...

Continue reading "Apartment Hunting" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:15 | Permalink

Isn't home the best? Even though some people tell me that I'm going to start loving Berkeley more than SoCal because I'm going to Cal, I find that highly unlikely. Right now, the sun's streaming in through the windows and it just makes you want to jump right out of bed at sunrise, or a bit after. Back in Berkeley, my alarm rings, and I hit the Snooze button...three times...it's just so grey outside that I want to stay under the covers for as long as possible.

Besides the weather, Socal is just home. I love being with my family and some of my friends from high school. Even though people at Berkeley are awesome,

Continue reading "Home Sweet Home" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 9:00 | Permalink

Telebears Phase I begins in mid-April!!! The online schedule of classes for the fall semester is already up, so start planning your schedule! Remember, during Phase I, sign up for classes that fill up quickly, like organic chemistry and the other general science classes. The labs for these classes fill up really fast. You should schedule your other classes to fit around these lower division science requirements since their labs take up so much time.

I've already started planning my schedule and so far, I know I'm definitely going to Chemistry 3B/3BL (this is the second part of organic chemistry) and Biology 1B. Most students take Biology 1B before they take Biology 1A

Continue reading "Fall 08 Semester Planning!!!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 3:44 | Permalink

For Berkeley students, Spring Break isn't much of a break. While the other UCs have their spring breaks right after 3rd quarter, Berkeley's spring break is smack in the middle of semester, right before round two of midterms. I can just imagine my spring break...studying for organic chemistry and toxicology. However, even with all the studying I have to do, I'm still going to spend some quality time at home in SoCal. Hopefully it's sunny there over spring break. By the way, it's going to start raining in Berkeley sometime soon and rain for the whole of next week. Just perfect. Berkeley has such odd weather.

Continue reading "Spring Break..." »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 7:12 | Permalink

Interested in all organic? Organic foods have limited amounts and types of pesticide residues. Although they're priced higher than non-organic foods, organic foods can be quite appealing to some people. Whole Foods Market sells mostly organic foods and it's only a short bus ride away. Simply take the 1R that goes along Telegraph and you'll go straight to Whole Foods Market. Another appealing aspect of Whole Foods Market is that they always have plenty of samples. They also have a large selection of granola, cheese, and breads. So, if you're interested in organic foods or if you're hungry, you should go visit Whole Foods sometime! :)

Continue reading "Whole Foods Market" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 7:01 | Permalink

Have you guys noticed that mini laptops are becoming quite popular? Just the other day, I saw this woman with this adorable white mini laptop and I really wanted to ask her for the model number, but she went inside the library and I didn't want to seem like a stalker. Later, I found out that the mini laptop was none other than the Asus Eee PC. Ranging from about $300-$500, the Asus Eee PCs weigh around 2 pounds with a 7" display screen. These mini laptops run on Linux operating systems but are Windows XP compatible. I read in some articles that they're used in some schools since the small keyboards are a perfect fit for little hands. To learn more about the Asus Eee PCs:

http://eeepc.asus.com/global/

Continue reading "Mini Laptops" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 6:42 | Permalink

...come again another day....and it sure has...

It rained for about two weeks straight after Winter Break. Then, we had about a week of wonderful sunshine. I was so surprised! I've been asking some NorCal people and they all say that it gets warm around here in April. So I was extremely happy about the warm weather. I'm from SoCal, so I absolutely love the sun and warmth. I was actually in shorts that week. Alas...it was not to last...

The rain came back and it's as gloomy as ever in Berkeley. Doesn't rain just make you want to crawl back into bed with a cup of hot chocolate and watch tv or read all day? That's what I want to do instead of sloshing through puddles to get to class everyday.

Continue reading "Rain Rain Go Away..." »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:21 | Permalink

Did you know that CNR is selecting a new dean? There are four candidates this time and you can eat lunch with them! Three of the luncheons have already passed, but there's still one more! This Wednesday is the last luncheon with the last CNR dean candidate. Not only will you get free pizza and soda, but you get to voice your questions and concerns to the candidate. What are his or her goals for CNR as Dean? How will he or she increase student enrollment in CNR? Can he or she make sure classes stop getting canceled at the last minute? Ask the candidate anything that concerns you about CNR!

Continue reading "Have lunch with CNR Dean Candidates!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:12 | Permalink

I know it's a bit early to worry about my plans for this summer, but I just can't seem to decide what to do this summer. I've created two options for myself:

(1) Stay at Berkeley and take a summer course (maybe Chem 3B/L, Physics 8A, Bio 1A/L, or Bio 1B/L...any suggestions?), continue working at Moffitt Library, and maybe find a clinical positon...

OR

(2) Go home to SoCal, take Spanish somewhere, and find a clinical or volunteer position

Continue reading "Summer Plans?!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:00 | Permalink

About a week ago, my friend told me about housing co-ops. They're an unique living option for Berkeley students. The cost is pretty inexpensive, averaging a little above $3000 for a semester. The cost includes food, internet, and utilities. Another appealing factor about the co-ops is that the laundry is really cheap! The reason why co-ops are so inexpensive is because each person does his or her fair share of chores each week. By contributing to the overall maintance of the co-op, people get an affordable living option and a unique living experience in return.
I've started looking at housing co-ops online, but I'm going to go visit them in person sometime soon. There's an application you have to fill out. I've heard they're some party co-ops, but in general, I think the atmosphere is close to that of a dorm. Right now, I'm considering

Continue reading "Housing Co-ops" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:08 | Permalink

Hey! I hope everyone isn't drowning in studying for finals and finishing papers! As for me...I still need to revise...more like, rewrite...my research paper for english. I always get so stressed writing papers. LOL. Ever wonder why I'm a science major? I'm only taking english to fulfill pre-med requirements...but after this semester, I'm going to take a break before taking another english couse. The professor was really good, but writing papers just stresses me out too much.

Anyways, still wondering about the title? Well, I live right across from Tolman Hall, so I can get the Airbears wireless internet connection...until now...On Monday, my internet just died and I haven't been able to use the internet at my studio ever since. I know I sound like such a modern college student, ever so dependent on internet...

Continue reading "Crashing Down..." »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 4:58 | Permalink

Only two and half weeks til Thanksgiving Break!!! Or...about 15 days...whichever one sounds shorter! So, anyone have plans, yet? I know I do! I can't wait to go back home to SoCal! I mean, Berkeley's awesome and everything, but I do miss my family. So...here are my plans:

I'm gonna fly back to SoCal on Thursday, Thanksgiving Day, yes...cuz I didn't know that I wouldn't have some classes on Wednesday...but I actually end classes on Wednesday at noon...I guess I'll just try and get some work done and just hang out with friends. Anyways, by the time I get home, it'll be mid-afternoon...and I plan on eating a lot, watching a few movies,

Continue reading "Can't wait 'til Thanksgiving!!!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:33 | Permalink

Hey! I feel like I haven't posted for quite a while. Anyways, everyone up for another round of midterms? I have a Math 1A midterm this thursday and a Chemistry 1A midterm on the Tuesday after Veteran's day. Thank heavens we have a day off!! Has anyone else noticed how rare days off are at Berkeley? I also have a paper due for english and a research paper to write for the class, too. Then, there's also the chemistry research project. I feel like everything's

Continue reading "Midterms! Eek!!!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 0:24 | Permalink

Hey!

So, this is an extension on the Scheduling Nightmare entries, but I didn't want to title it Scheduling Nightmare III since the nightmare has long past...

Anyways, I've been trying to plan out my future semesters at Berkeley. I went in to see Marjorie (the awesome Microbial Biology advisor) yesterday, and she helped me plan part of my schedule...which classes to take...when to take those classes...

Continue reading "Planning your Future..." »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 5:02 | Permalink

Don't worry. It's not another scheduling nightmare. I'm just responding to Chai's comment about the first 'Scheduling Nightmare.' So, here goes:

My spring semester...yes, Telebears scheduling for spring semester is just on the horizon. I think it's around late October. I'm most likely going to take Math 1B, just to continue with the series. I'm not sure if I can get credit for Math 16B if I take it after Math 1A and besides, wouldn't it kinda look bad on your transcipt? I'm probably going to take organic chemistry, 3B/3A...I haven't decided, yet. I also want to get my American Cultures requirement fulfilled

Continue reading "Scheduling Nightmare II" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 7:20 | Permalink

Hey! I know everyone's probably pretty busy around this time...midterm time! So far I've had a Chemistry 1A midterm and a Math 1A midterm. The Math 1A midterm was today. Have you ever put down an answer, think about it, change it, and it turns out that your first answer was right? I always do that. I know I've missed a problem on my math midterm already. :( Yes, I just needed to rant about it, so bear with me. *sigh* It was such an easy problem and I was going to put the correct answer! Then, I counter-guessed myself and put down a wrong answer. Oh, well. There's still one more midterm and a final, so hopefully I'll still be able to get a good grade in the class overall. I really really hope so! Good luck to the rest of you on your midterms!!!

Advice: Go with your first instinct! It's usually right! Don't change it unless you're absolutely certain that your first answer is wrong.

Continue reading "Midterm Butterflies" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 1:29 | Permalink

This past tuesday (September 18th), was the second annual Biology Majors Fair! It was held in the Pauley Ballroom in the ASUC building. The fair itself was relatively small, but it was still a success! There were tables there from EAP, the Career Center, and most of the biology-related majors. The fair was from 11 am to 2 pm, but I got there around 9 am to help setup. After the fair started, I basically asked people to fill out a quick evaluation of the fair. You get entered into a drawing to win $25 from Jamba Juice or Yogurt Park!!!

Take a look at these cute little beings!!!

Continue reading "Biology Majors Fair!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:52 | Permalink

When I first came to Berkeley, I hiked (yes, hiked) through campus to go everywhere. As I walked uphill to my friends' dorm in Foothill, I was literally huffing and puffing. Side note: Has anyone ever wondered why Foothill is called Foothill? Because, honestly, it's not at the foot of a hill. It's on top of a hill. How devious of the people who named that dorm. Anyways, I was totally sure that Freshman 15 would be a total myth to me....

Three weeks later....the myth might have a chance of becoming reality.

Continue reading "Freshman 15?!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:33 | Permalink

When I first came to Berkeley, I hiked (yes, hiked) through campus to go everywhere. As I walked uphill to my friends' dorm in Foothill, I was literally huffing and puffing. Side note: Has anyone ever wondered why Foothill is called Foothill? Because, honestly, it's not at the foot of a hill. It's on top of a hill. How devious of the people who named that dorm. Anyways, I was totally sure that Freshman 15 would be a total myth to me....

Three weeks later....the myth might have a chance of becoming reality.

Continue reading "Freshman 15?!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:33 | Permalink

Among the many awesome things at Cal, it's near San Francisco!!! A mere 30 minute ride of the BART for $3.65 (I think) and you're in one of the largest cities in our nation! Also, you can take the F bus there, but I heard that it makes frequent stops, so it takes up to an hour to get there.

Popular places to visit in San Francisco:

1. Fisherman's Wharf
-lots of interesting stores and clothes at really good prices

2. Pier 39 (there are other Piers, but this one is the most popular)
-Aquarium of the Bay
-Sea Lions K-Dock
-a lot of seafood restaurants. Look at these sourdoughs!

Alligator!!!

Continue reading "San Francisco" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 3:18 | Permalink

Among the many awesome things at Cal, it's near San Francisco!!! A mere 30 minute ride of the BART for $3.65 (I think) and you're in one of the largest cities in our nation! Also, you can take the F bus there, but I heard that it makes frequent stops, so it takes up to an hour to get there.

Popular places to visit in San Francisco:

1. Fisherman's Wharf
-lots of interesting stores and clothes at really good prices

2. Pier 39 (there are other Piers, but this one is the most popular)
-Aquarium of the Bay
-Sea Lions K-Dock
-a lot of seafood restaurants. Look at these sourdoughs!

Alligator!!!

Continue reading "San Francisco" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 3:18 | Permalink

I've always heard that scheduling was a nightmare, but my schedule seemed to work out perfectly. All my classes were evenly distributed throughout the week, averaging about 3 lectures/discussions per day. Sweet, no?

Since I'm premed (forgot to mention this in my first post...), I have to take a year of math. So, of course, I opted for the easier calculus course: Math 16. Then...

The Nightmare:

On the second day of school, I freaked out because my friend told me that premeds are supposed to take Math 1, not Math 16. So....I sent an email to the Plant and Microbial Biology advisor Marjorie Ensor, asking if Math 16 fulfilled the math requirement for premeds...but,

Continue reading "Scheduling Nightmare" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:30 | Permalink

Like everyone else, here's the customary first blog....

I'm Victoria and I'm a freshman at CNR (the best college ever!) with an intended Microbial Biology major. I'm from Southern California, but I'm quickly adjusting to Northern California's weather. It's a bit more chilly up here during the early mornings and evenings, but are those afternoons hot sometimes! Seriously, I'm starting to believe that the "Freshmen 15" is a myth. It's going to be pretty hard to gain 15 pounds while hiking up those hills to class, sweating under that California sun.

Continue reading "Hey Everyone!" »

---

Posted by Victoria Eng at 2:21 | Permalink

Categories

Careers

Choosing a Major

Classes

• Exams
• Office Hours
• Papers

CNR Majors

• Conservation and Resource Studies
• Environmental Economics and Policy
• Environmental Sciences
• Forestry and Natural Resources
• Genetics and Plant Biology
• Microbial Biology
• Molecular Environmental Biology
• Molecular Toxicology
• Nutritional Sciences
• Society and Environment
• Undeclared

Featured Bloggers

• Amelia
• Angela
• Casey
• Fabian
• Jade
• Jante
• John
• Josephine
• Leighna
• Shelby
• Thea
• Victoria

First Days

Fresh Faces Alums

• Amy
• Daniel
• Ellyse
• Eric
• Joel
• Jon
• Juan
• Katarina
• Kristin
• Maria
• Marissa
• Mayra
• Nikki
• Rola
• Steph
• Tay
• Tina
• Yang

Get Involved

Random Thoughts

Rants and Raves

Stress

Study Abroad

Suggestions and Advice

Things to Do and See

Undergraduate Research

Vacation Time

Monthly Archives

2006

• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

2007

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

2008

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

2009

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

2010

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May

2011

2012

2013

Recent Posts

Ephemeral stability

Finals, Life and Confusion of a College Kid

Habitat for Humanity

It's the Final Countdown!

East Bay Vivarium!

EDITED: What goes on in those bspace chat rooms

It's been a year!

A Breath of Fresh Air

Food-related Joke

Academy of Sciences

Syndication

Subscribe to this blog's feed