Remember to have fun!
It has been my goal since coming to Cal to try something new every semester. My first semester here, after being in wind ensembles since 5th grade and studying jazz in middle and high school, I decided to join the Cal Band. I had never marched in a marching band, but I picked up things quickly and really enjoyed having so many friends right off the bat. Today I am still in the band and can’t wait for the opening Tennessee game next year. If marching isn’t your thing, you can also get involved musically in the university wind ensembles, jazz ensembles, a capella groups and vocal jazz groups.
The YWCA is another great place to explore your interests in their dance, aerobics, and yoga classes. I took a yoga class there last summer and plan to take a dance class before I graduate. If you are into art, I would also recommend the ASUC art studio. I have taken a pottery class and a pastels class and really enjoyed having a break from school during the day where I could relax and do something creative.
Balancing all these activities with school can be challenging, however I think that students are really missing out on a lot by only doing school work at Cal. Classes must come first, but taking time to try something new and find something you are passionate about can really add to your college experience and help you grow. Besides, having something to relieve stress from finals studying can be an invaluable thing here at Berkeley.