Why is Berkeley Appealing for Study Abroad Students?

The University of California, Berkeley, appeals to study abroad students for a variety of reasons. From the magnificent West Coast landscape to the school's historic traditions and prominence, UC Berkeley has much to offer anybody interested in experiencing life and education in the United States. Here are some primary reasons overseas students consider applying to this Golden State treasure.

Diverse Student Population 

Berkeley's student population is diverse, with students from around the globe. As an accredited institution, its students come from everywhere, not just California. As one of the most popular colleges for study abroad programs, the campus is a melting pot of many cultures where everyone can feel at home.

Xiaohui, an SAF China Global Ambasador attended one of the UC Berkeley study abroad programs and found the environment to be very welcoming. Xiaohui states, “Berkeley's diverse community is also a highlight. Life here is often like a dream. Everyone is full of passion and vitality. Students come from all over the world, each with different cultures and stories. This diverse environment has taught me to respect and tolerate and also allowed me to understand and experience different cultures.”

Renowned faculty

Berkeley boasts over 1,500 elite academic members who participate in new ideas and pioneering research. The average student-teacher ratio is 18:1, and teachers have a reputation for being approachable, helpful both in and out of class, and offering informal advice. Many study abroad students have remarked on how their lecturers really bring the material to life in class.

Location

Berkeley is a part of the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area, a place known for its modern businesses, beautiful beaches, and mild year-round temperatures. Students studying abroad enjoy having access to one of the most recognized cities in the United States, as well as seeing attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge and visiting the famed Fisherman's Wharf. Xiaohui, amazed by the local environment states, “The scenery here is also incomparably beautiful. Climbing up the Berkeley Mountains, watching the sunset fall in the sky, the red color extends to the horizon, while the sky on the other side is softly pink, and the moonlight is quietly there.”

This area offers lots of recreation activities in the Bay Area, but it is also easily accessible from Southern California towns and the Pacific Northwest area for weekend vacations and school holidays.

Academic reputation

UC Berkeley offers a wide range of degree programs. It has fifteen academic departments, and students can choose from more than 300 degree programs. It is renowned for its academic quality and is listed among the top ten institutions in political science. Electrical engineering and computer science, economics, business administration, and psychology have all been popular majors among Berkeley students. Xiaohui took a public speaking class and enjoyed the professor: “Her teaching style is unique and infectious. In every class, she uses vivid cases and interesting stories to guide us and help us understand complex concepts. The class is full of interaction and discussion.”

Commitment to free expression

Berkeley is well recognized as the birthplace of the Free Speech Movement and for its dedication to protecting freedom of opinion. Freedom of speech is the freedom to express one's beliefs and ideas without government intervention or reprisal. Berkeley permits student groups to have speeches and invites outside speakers to present their opinions under university policy. This is an excellent chance for study abroad students to learn about subjects and legislation in the United States.

Language learning

Berkeley is an appealing school for academics and experiencing life in the United States, but it also offers study abroad students a fantastic opportunity to enhance their English abilities. This is one of the most valuable gains from studying abroad, and students often report that their self-confidence and speaking ability have improved significantly after a session at an American institution.

“Students come from different countries and bring diverse perspectives and insights. Through these exchanges, I improved my speaking skills and broadened my horizons. At the same time, I also strengthened my self-confidence. Public speaking has become a less scary thing for me.” - Xaohui, SAF China Global Ambassador

Going to Berkeley is a great way to learn about American society and see many things in the US in a new light. SAF study abroad students will widen their views in both academic and social domains, making their overseas experience unique and helpful.