My older sister, Isah, has been one of my biggest role models in life. I practically did almost everything she did in school. She graduated from UC Davis and now it was my turn to go to college and it came down to two choices: Cal or UC Davis. I had followed her footsteps since day 1 and when I asked her for advice on making a decision, she said to me, “You pick.” To me that was a scary thought, but it made me realize that I had to start making decisions on my own (and also to be a little more open-minded). I am also a first-generation college student, so when I asked my parents for advice they said, “Just go to Davis like your sister” …surprisingly enough.
I wanted to do something different this time. I wanted to be a little more adventurous and so I chose Cal simply for the opportunity to experience something new for myself and for my family, to experience a new environment at the same time, to be a part of Cal’s widely acclaimed reputation, history, culture, and academic excellence. “Bigger name, bigger reputation, and bigger prestige” was the impression I got from Cal so I had no doubt that I was going to get a top-notch education here. I came from Modesto, CA, an agricultural suburban city and so coming to Berkeley was all new and exciting for me- the campus, the food, the people, everything. And since I am a momma’s boy, staying close to my family was another reason I chose Cal. All in all, if I had the opportunity to change my decision to go to Cal, I wouldn’t.
So if you got into Cal, congratulations! Come to Cal Day on Sunday, April 12th to find out more about campus life and the Cal community. Remember, you are choosing your home for the next four years. Making the decision may not be an easy one, but make it your own. This is your turn, this is your education, and this is your future.
