University of California—Irvine (UCI)

Though the University of California-Irvine was only founded in 1965; as a public research university in the California system, it already offers 87 bachelor's degrees to nearly 30,000 students. The proximity to Los Angeles "gives students a lot of educational opportunities" but also feels set apart enough to promote on-campus collaboration in "a beautiful and constructive atmosphere." Any student willing to work hard-the "academic standard is...super high at UC Irvine, which encourages students to excel and try their hardest in their studies"-will find a place to follow their dreams here.

Students emphasize that the classrooms here are active: "We get to talk about what we learn during class instead of passively learning" and there's a "learning of the material through hands-on experiences and participation." It works, because "professors are welleducated and knowledgeable [and] helpful when students have questions" and "do an excellent job of bringing lecture material into applicable daily life situations." The atmosphere also encourages students to utilize the "many undergraduate research opportunities," with equally "many resources both provided by the school and the professors." As far as administration goes, the school "strives to understand each student's unique situation (personal, family, financial, and academic) and accommodate their needs." And the school's tutoring center, which "definitely helps with intuition and deeper understanding" helps to keep students on track.

UCI comprises "a diverse group of ambitious youths from all walks of life"-students note the "significant population of commuters and international students"-who come from "a variety of racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds." Though the university is competitive, "it is not cutthroat, and students really strive to see the well-being of their fellow peers," and everyone is "driven and willing to work toward what they want." There "is an air of open friendliness" that is "very inclusive and promotes a safe and welcoming atmosphere for students." UCI also has a large "number of first-generation students who seem to have built a special community amongst themselves," but as a whole it "feels as though everyone is connected and on the same page."

One of UCI's greatest strengths is that "everyone can find some form of community on campus or people willing to help them out with their needs." There are "clubs and activities for everyone whether or not you may think you fit in." One student notes that the ARC (Anteater Recreation Center) has "lots of different options, like badminton, ping pong, and rock climbing" and that you can play pool in the main lobbies of some dorms. Students also note that there's a global range to activities: "boba tea and anime are extremely popular" and "there are many local restaurants that are known for good food." The "campus and surrounding area is very safe" and "the community is also quite involved," with plenty of chances to take part in service volunteering. There is a "really nice park in the middle of campus" and the "peaceful and big campus...never feels boring or restricting." Though the social scene can be somewhat quiet, there are always people "eating on campus or studying together," and "travel becomes much easier if you have friends willing to go with you."