The University of California - Berkeley

Also, all of the programs at Cal are incredible, so you can feel confident taking any course or switch majors with confidence.

While many of the stereotypes of a large research university are true at Cal (huge introductory lectures, crazy, but brilliant professors, etc), most of them aren't. Most of the professors at Cal are truly interested in teaching. But the student almost always must make the first step and approach the professor.

Cal also has a fun (and sometimes good) D1 sports program. Our teams are even doing well lately. Even when we suck, the school still rallies around them.

And by the time you're a senior (or super senior) and senioritis is catching on, you can always start further delving into the local SF or Oakland scenes. (Note: Oakland is *not* as scandalous as the media would have it be!).

Housing is a pain. But that's what happens when you live in desirable areas.Anyway, any potential students feel free to email me with questions at ucb_