🍦UC Berkeley Interview Final Part

Break is almost up, so we decided to chill out too, and have a shorter lineup today. Here’s the lineup today:

1. Info Zone Reminder: A fun and full week coming up!

2. Scoops Exclusive: Part 3/3 of our Conversation with Mr. Mcghee

TRIVIA
Guess the alum and guess the college!

🌟 This tech visionary co-founded one of the most influential companies in the world, revolutionizing how we access information online. He earned his BSE in computer engineering from a university famous for its maize and blue spirit, where he developed an early interest in technology and innovation. Who is this alum, and which school did he attend?

You can find the answer at the bottom of the email!

INFO ZONE
Next week is packed with info sesh’s—sign up for some soon!

Here’s some upcoming school virtual information sessions. These are great opportunities to learn more about school’s programs to determine if the school is a right fit for you. It’s also great to learn more about the school’s vibe and possibly what admissions officers are looking for. All the times listed are below are already converted into Pacific.

Penn Admissions Virtual Information Session - Monday, December 2, 2024 at 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM

USC First-Year Admission Information Session - Monday, December 2, 2024 at 3:30 PM until 4:30 PM

Georgia Tech Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts Webinar - Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM

Yale Virtual Student Forum - Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 4:00 PM until 5:00 PM PM

Columbia University Info Session - Friday, December 6, 2024 at 7:00 AM until 8:00 AM

Rice Virtual Admission Information Session - Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM

SCOOPS EXCLUSIVE
Part 3/3 of our conversation with Mr. Mcghee

Berkeley alumni are known to be highly successful. What systems or resources are in place to help students network with alumni, particularly in competitive fields like business and tech?

Berkeley provides extensive networking opportunities through its Cal Alumni Association, which hosts events like Black to Cal, Homecoming Weekend, and various community gatherings. These events offer a chance to connect with alumni from diverse fields and foster mentorship relationships. Additionally, professors and faculty are invaluable resources—many students find that building strong relationships with them can open doors to unique opportunities. Berkeley also benefits from a supportive peer-to-peer network, with students helping each other navigate professional pathways and build connections.

Berkeley is often perceived as highly competitive. What support systems are in place for students to balance that competitiveness with their personal well-being?

Although Berkeley is competitive in its admissions process, the environment can feel both collaborative and supportive once you’re on campus. The intensity of your experience often depends on your major, with some programs being more demanding than others. The university offers a range of support systems, including academic resource centers, tutoring programs, and graduate student instructors (GSIs) who lead discussion sections and offer guidance. Making connections with GSIs and peers can be particularly helpful. Berkeley also provides support for students of various ethnic or identity groups, ensuring resources are accessible to all.

I’ve heard about Berkeley’s undergraduate research programs like URAP. With so many students on campus, how competitive are these programs?

Undergraduate research opportunities like URAP are competitive, but the majority of students can find an entry point into research through classes or faculty connections. Showcasing strong performance and proficiency in your field of interest can make you a standout candidate. With dedication, most students interested in research find a way to get involved during their time at Berkeley.

How competitive are clubs and extracurriculars at Berkeley?

Clubs and extracurriculars at Berkeley can be quite competitive, depending on the organization. While some groups may require persistence and networking to gain entry, there are countless opportunities to get involved across campus. If one avenue doesn’t work out, there’s always another way to engage and grow within Berkeley’s dynamic community.

LINK LOUNGE
ICYMI: Who doesn’t love scholarships?

Gallery Collection Greeting Card Scholarship - win $10,000 by designing a birthday, holiday, or general purpose greeting card

UC PIQ Guide - the official UC guide to writing strong PIQs

(NEW) Peterson's Scholarship Search - find the best scholarships for you out of over 1.9 million scholarships and grants

(NEW) Stamps Scholars - win up to $360,000 in total scholarships at partner schools

TRIVIA ANSWER
Looking for the answer to our fun trivia question up at the top?

Answer: Larry Page, University of Michigan. Want to learn more? Check out this page!

DAILY DEADLINE UPDATES
Get cracking on those UCs and CSU Applications!

In the Daily Deadlines section, we will keep you updated on upcoming deadlines in the college admissions world. Remember to not procrastinate and stay ahead of these deadlines!

UC + CSU Deadline: December 2
December SAT: December 7

THE ARCHIVE
Looking for past mailings?

You can view all our previous posts at our website at https://scholarscoops.beehiiv.com

IDEAS COME FROM EVERYWHERE
Have an idea for the newsletter?

Is there a question you’ve been dying to have answered related to college admissions? Or, is there something just nagging you about Scholar Scoops that you want to see fixed soon? We want to hear from you. You can submit feedback at https://forms.gle/7Rj2eBCiauEc5oNV8. Thank you so much!