Reflections on My PhD Years at UCLA: A City and Campus That Transcended Expectations
Undoubtedly, my PhD journey at UCLA was among the most enriching and joyous years of my life. The vibrant city of Los Angeles offered endless excitement and charm, and the breathtaking ocean was just a stone’s throw away.
UCLA: A Melting Pot of Intellectual Excellence
In summary, my experience at UCLA was overwhelmingly positive. The combination of dedicated professors, extensive library resources, and an incredible array of guest speakers contributed significantly to my academic growth. My first year alone hosted fantastic guest speakers such as Chuck Jones, Patrick Stewart, Howie Mandel, and Karen Finley, showcasing the diverse and enriching academic environment. Not to mention, the university inherently sets itself apart from its more sports-focused counterparts like USC.
It is important to note, however, that my personal experience skewed more towards academics, and hence, I cannot comment on the nuances of sports events or Greek houses.
A Life-Changing Introduction
My very first day at UCLA was particularly memorable. It was the day I met the love of my life, Geoffrey. Before class began, I arrived early to secure a good seat. As I stood at a second-floor landing, a set of headphones unexpectedly enveloped my ears, and the captivating melody of The Way We Were by Barbra Streisand synced perfectly with the sunlit sky. Suddenly, the world felt sublime. Turning to see who had created this moment, I was entranced by Geoffrey's warm smile and his calming finger pressed to his lips. From that instant, we became inseparable until his untimely passing eight years later. Geoffrey's final moments, spent with me and their Bardos, are etched deeply into my memory.
The Beauty of a Competitive Academic Environment
UCLA is undoubtedly an outstanding institution deserving its prestigious reputation. Located on a captivating campus, nestled in a relatively safe area, and bathed in near-perfect weather, it is nearly impossible to find fault with the institution. However, the true beauty of attending a highly-competitive school lies in its adaptability. Should one change their academic major, they are still likely to be part of an elite college in that field. My personal experience as a former Computer Science and Engineering undergraduate contrasts with my subsequent major in English, underscoring this very point. The commitment and excellence across all departments make UCLA a prime choice for aspiring professionals and academics.
A Campus Environment That Nurtures Growth
With a student body of approximately 35,000 undergraduates, it is challenging to generalize about all students. However, if one becomes engaged in campus activities, a diverse community of like-minded individuals can be readily found. My personal experiences at UCLA included intramural basketball, working at Pauley Pavilion, serving as an on-campus counselor, and interning at renowned film studios such as Paramount, Sony, and Universal. The atmosphere is laid back and generally friendly, often humorously referred to as the "University of Construction Lasting Always."
Your UCLA experience will be largely dependent on your level of engagement and investment. Personally, I was passionate about academics, but I equally valued extracurricular activities and professional internships. The professors are often recognized as industry leaders, providing invaluable opportunities to attend concerts and talks on campus. Regularly attending office hours and fostering friendships with class peers during freshman and sophomore years can significantly enrich your academic journey.
Ultimately, UCLA is a university that rewards your efforts with opportunities. Get involved, stay dedicated, and you will accumulate an impressive and enriching academic legacy.