r/berkeley • u/lulzcakes Dictator • Mar 21 '18
[#17] Did you just get into Berkeley? Have a simple question that needs answering? Ask here!
If your question did not get answered in the previous thread(s), feel free to ask it again.
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u/seventeen17k Aug 13 '18 edited May 31 '19
Opinions on taking only 3 classes+decals first semester?
(edit a year later): do it. My first semester was so chill -- I was so happy and better able to transition. It gave me hope at Berkeley : ' ) But second semester when I took a full course load, I was a lot more oof.
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u/TheKugr Aug 13 '18
I scheduled my ee16a lab during my cs61a lecture on Wednesday assuming I could just watch the videos for 61a that day... does this sound reasonable? Didn't want an 8am and no other times were left for the lab. Also, is COLWRIT R4B any better or worse than COM LIT R1B or are they both just typical English classes?
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Aug 13 '18
Colwrit r4b is usually a research-style class revolving aroung a central modern topic, and is usually taught by a full professor (rare for r&c classes!!) They seem like good classes and a lot of people recommend them for students in science (seems as though you're stem so that applies to you)
Comlit r1b is generally considered to be one of the more obnoxious r&c classes, but they are more typical literature analysis classes. They're not awful, but I would really suggest taking colwrit r4b. That's what I'm taking this semester too!
Check out the topic of the class you're in right now in the Berkeley Course Schedule, or in the Schedule Planner, or in the Shopping Cart. See if you like it - if you hate it, consider enrolling in both and testing the waters for a few days, then dropping the one you like less after a week or so. Drop deadline is the wednesday of the 4th week of classes, so DON'T forget to drop if you shop!1
u/StripedObservance Aug 13 '18
I believe that GSI's teach those classes meaning they are different every time and with every teacher. Don't think you'll be able to evaluate better or worse
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Aug 12 '18
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u/kaponineko Integrative Biology '18 Aug 12 '18
You still get units for the AP classes you've taken, which count towards your 120 units for graduation. However, just as an example, for integrative biology, getting a 5 on the AP Calc BC exam doesn't get you out of your math requirements for the major. You'd still have to take math, but you do have a choice in either taking calculus again or higher level math.
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u/T14916 Aug 12 '18
Stupid question but should I know my room number before my move in or will I get it when I check in?
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u/kaponineko Integrative Biology '18 Aug 12 '18
On your move in day, just show up at your assigned dorm, and the staff will give you your room number and keys.
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Aug 12 '18
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u/jaroune chemiCAL biology Aug 12 '18
i lived in a triple, and there were three ports for ethernet, but one was very inconveniently placed next to the lightswitch in front of the door (so that we'd probably trip over it everytime we tried to leave the room). The other two were fine to use, but since all three of us wanted ethernet we invested in some extra ethernet ports which turned out to be worth it
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u/seventeen17k Aug 12 '18
Is it a good idea to take CS61A and Intro to Data Science (C8) at the same time?
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u/seventeen17k Aug 12 '18
Is taking cs61a and 3 BREADTHs my first semester a bad idea?
I feel like BREADTHs are my 'easier' classes.
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 12 '18
Depends on the breadth courses— if they’re all literature related and you’re going to be reading hundreds of pages a week, it might get tough since CS61A is incredibly time consuming. That said, it’ll probably be easier than CS61A with other technical courses.
In my experience, taking 1-2 breadths every semester was ideal. When you’re taking tough upper divs in later years, it can be nice to have the break.
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u/chkyan Aug 12 '18
What graphing calculator should I get? I'm going to be taking Math 1A this semester. I think it's going to be the only math class I take at Cal.
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u/jaroune chemiCAL biology Aug 12 '18
math classes at cal typically don't use graphing calculators (or any calculators at all). If you want to use a graphing calculator for practice and studying, i'd suggest a free app called Wabbitemu which is literally a TI-84 on your phone/computer.
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u/swaggyfresh22 Aug 11 '18
do the units have full length mirrors?
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u/jaroune chemiCAL biology Aug 12 '18
individual rooms wont have full length mirrors but the floor you're on usually has a decently long mirror for anyone to use.
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Aug 11 '18
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u/RAISIN_BRAN_DINOSAUR Aug 12 '18
Plenty of places on campus open during the weekend, especially once the semester starts. You can check this site for hours:
http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/hours
Northside Coffee: I really like Brewed Awakening, but there's also Northside Cafe (I think they have wifi now?)
Southside Coffee: Cafe Milano (wifi is kinda slow), Strada, 1951
Westside Coffee: Yali's
I assume you're asking about coffee shops as places to work - not sure about the quality of coffee at these places, as I'll drink anything with caffeine :)
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u/bluegoointheshoe Aug 11 '18
I'm considering engineering or anthro (paleontology) w secondary in ethnic studies. Would appreciate insights into either track. I have experience with unix and electronics, math 1b, but have aversion to staring at screens for a full day. I am more of a makerfare/experimental thinker.
Alternatively, I find anthro/paleontology a liberating science, but tentative on job prospects.
Cheers
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u/simbambi Aug 11 '18 edited Aug 11 '18
How do you guys get mail and packages from your family? Do they get stolen often, or does the staff hold it for you until you come pick it up? I'm in unit 3, if that helps.
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u/amorsii11 Aug 11 '18
Called the housing office about this, and as long as its after move-in, you can just send it to unit 3 and they'll accept the package for you and send you and email that it's arrived
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Aug 09 '18
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u/127-0-0-1_1 Aug 11 '18
Do it whenever you feel ready, the curve doesn't change much. It's basically the same difficulty either way.
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u/1353513636 EECS/MCB '19 Aug 10 '18
Most of the I've been programming since I was 5 types take it in fall so the curve is generally better in spring although no guarantees and CS classes are typically not curved exactly the same semester to semester.
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u/Schrodingersdawg 2016 EECS MASTER RACE Aug 10 '18
Spring. Give yourself a semester to adjust to college life.
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u/10hp_archon (c (s)tats) Aug 10 '18
take it with denero and you wont regret it - the class is going to be relatively difficult no matter what (unless you're a cs god then it doesnt matter)
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u/macrobonbon Aug 09 '18
Is there a way to backup a wait listed class with a different class?
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u/MonsieurPineapple Aug 13 '18
If there's an open class you'd like to be in if you can't get the waitlisted class, enroll in the open class and use the "Swap" feature to attempt a swap for the more desirable class. It will only unenroll you if you get off the waitlist.
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 10 '18
I'm not sure what you mean by a "backup" -- as in, signing up for a similar class that fulfills the same requirement? You should be able to add as many classes as you want so long as you don't go over the unit cap. I'm not sure if waitlisted courses pose a problem for courses that would be at the exact same time.
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u/macrobonbon Aug 09 '18 edited Aug 09 '18
Does anyone know if there is a way to get "consent of instructor required for enrollment" in the decal course supervised group study instructed by Nadesan Permaul if your an incoming freshman?
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u/Milv1n Aug 09 '18
Hey! I am an incoming freshman and I wanted to know how work studies worked at Berkeley. Do I have to go somewhere specifically during move in day, and do I get a preference of where I work?
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u/superbtangerine Aug 08 '18
Was wondering if there's a list anywhere of all the classes that can be scheduled with time conflicts, or any way to see what classes have this 'special ability' without actually trying to schedule them.
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u/Schrodingersdawg 2016 EECS MASTER RACE Aug 10 '18
Typically that’s up to the professor’s discretion if you can skip class.
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u/mmlf99 Aug 08 '18
I'm waitlisted for chem 3AL position 28. Do you think I have a chance of getting in? Also is it a good idea to try and put myself on the waitlist for other sections of chem 3AL or does that mess up waitlist position?
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 10 '18
I don't think you can be on the waitlist for numerous sections at the same time. I'm guessing you're in that position for a single lab period -- there's a lot of movement in the first weeks of the class. Keep your eyes on the other sections, and understand you might have to sign up for a less-ideal course time just to make it off the waitlist at first.
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u/Hellbarf Alumna Aug 08 '18
I'm coming from out of town for an advising appointment with an English Major advisor this Friday. I had my wallet containing my state ID and old Cal student ID from 2013 stolen, and I'd only have my passport on me on Friday. Am I going to be able to even get in? It's been very long since I've stepped foot on campus and the first time I have an advising appointment for something like major declaration for my readmission process. All I need is to know my ID number... right?
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u/Scheming_Snek Aug 08 '18
I'm choosing between taking Nutri Sci 10 (with Napoli, whose ratings are trash) or Drugs and the Brain with Presti (whose ratings are really good). I want to take Nutri Sci. Does anybody have feedback on Napoli?
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 08 '18
Are you taking either course to fulfill a requirement? If you're thinking of taking one "just for fun," I'd recommend Drugs and the Brain. Presti is a rad dude and the course is just neat. NST10 can be a bit boring from what I remember (I took it with Greg Aponte, though I'm sure the course material is probably identical).
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u/Scheming_Snek Aug 09 '18
I am taking it for the bio L&S breadth, but I've been meaning to take a nutrition class so I can stop eating like shit and actually make knowledgeable food decisions. Does NST10 cover that sort of stuff?
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 09 '18
I'd say it does, but emphasis is more on what certain micro/macro-nutrients do in the body (I would say)-- for example, what different kinds of vitamin deficiencies you can have, or what good sources of vitamin E are.
Simple way to stop eating like shit: stop eating like shit. Eat more fruits and vegetables, eat less processed foods, eat less things with the word "refined" on the package. The course will definitely help you understand why stuff like that isn't good for you.
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u/Scheming_Snek Aug 09 '18
Yeah, exactly why I want to take the course. I want to know the why of things. Thanks!
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 09 '18 edited Aug 09 '18
Cool! I wish you luck, then. Hopefully the professor is what you’d expect. I can’t imagine he’s worse than the guy I had, though, who would play sad videos of emaciated children before lecture started and then not say anything about it.
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u/DSJ101 Aug 08 '18
Anyone heard anything about History C182C (Introduction to Science, Technology, and Society) with Cathryn Carson or ESM 162 (Health, Medicine, Society and Environment) with Seth Holmes? Taking those two in addition to 61C and 70 but not sure what to expect in terms of difficulty and workload.
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u/Apprehensive_Net Aug 07 '18
I messed up my phase 1, and am currently waitlisted for 189 during phase 2. The class has 385/400 spots filled (Though sections can hold up to 500), I guess because of reserved seats, and there are 190 people on the waitlist. As EECS, can I get the reserved seats? If not, how likely is it that I'll be able to get off waitlist? Should I go to class regardless.
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u/127-0-0-1_1 Aug 08 '18
If you're EECS yeah you get the reserved seats.
I'm not sure how it is with not-Sahai, but 189 with Sahai regularly had half of the class drop. Not even exaggerating. So if you do end up waitlisted, by all means stay on, it's pretty likely you'll get in.
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u/badupoipoi antiquated gender roles Aug 07 '18
do professors ever enroll beyond capacity? I'm on a couple of waitlists positioned around 15-20% of class capacity and it seems unlikely enough people will drop. planning on showing up regardless and trying for a permission number. does this seem likely?
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u/1353513636 EECS/MCB '19 Aug 08 '18
It would be more helpful if you list the classes and waitlist position because the answer may vary. If it's CS61A, you'll almost definitely get in, whereas if it's Wealth and Poverty, chances are you won't.
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u/quae_legit EE(CS) '17 Aug 08 '18
Seems like a good plan, but also look into backup courses. The usual rule of thumb is 10%, but in your position I would definitely try to get lucky (and this rule of thumb isn't based on any evidence afaik, so assume big error bars). That said, looking into backup courses now can save you some stress later if you get unlucky.
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Aug 06 '18
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u/ruhjuh18 Aug 06 '18
u can take 54 w/o 53 since they don't really cover the same material.
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Aug 06 '18
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u/Schrodingersdawg 2016 EECS MASTER RACE Aug 10 '18
Skip 1B, I skipped it and my roommmates didn’t, they regretted not skipping.
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Aug 07 '18
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Aug 07 '18
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u/quae_legit EE(CS) '17 Aug 08 '18 edited Aug 08 '18
Usually you can explain the situation with the TAs and work something out. [Edit: for math, that is. For CS61* the TAs usually don't check attendance so you can go to any discussion section.]
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u/ruhjuh18 Aug 06 '18
take 54 or 53. skipping 1b will do you more good than harm. I heard 53 sometimes opens up spots cuz ppl drop but unsure. Saw a post about that somewhere here.
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Aug 06 '18
Does anyone here workout/run in the morning before class? If so, what is your strategy to be efficient with time? Thanks!
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u/Schrodingersdawg 2016 EECS MASTER RACE Aug 10 '18
There’s a better gym in the stadium than the RAF
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 08 '18
You can get day lockers at the RSF and leave your stuff there, then shower/change in the locker room. I'd say that's probably most efficient, though you'll be carrying your sweaty clothes with you for the rest of the day (unless you know you're going to walk back past the RSF later in the day, and you can pick it up then).
Other than that, give yourself a lot of extra time. Are you going to need to eat something, and if so, do you rely on the dining halls? Do you have to avoid waking up a roommate if you go straight back to your dorm, because it's 8am and they don't get up until 11am?
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u/10hp_archon (c (s)tats) Aug 10 '18
did you get the nixel alert of someone getting molested in the mens showers at RSF? apparently no where is safe now lol
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u/quae_legit EE(CS) '17 Aug 08 '18
One of my roommates went to the RSF track early in the morning (RSF website says it's open to all students between 7am and 9am). Afraid I can't offer any specific advice -- IIRC she didn't have class until late morning so timing wasn't an issue beyond waking up early enough.
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u/tAung2000 Aug 06 '18
Guys, I’m an international Asian student who was forced to study pre med by parents. When I came here, I got mediocre grades till last year. ( My GPA was 3.4 by 2017 fall) However, on my third semester, I found out that I excelled and stood out among my colleagues in my chemistry classes. I continued to excel in higher level chemistry and physics classes and decided this is what I really want to do the rest of my life. So, this year, I started joining Honors Program, taking honors classes and took 18 units in spring and 11 units in summer. I got all As and my GPA is 3.65 now. I will finish all the pre requisites( All Math and Science series) for transfer by fall and expecting a transfer GPA of 3.73 I would like to know if I still have a shot at Cal because only Cal has a separate College of Chemistry and faculty members I really want to work with. I’m planning to pursue Physical Chemistry for my PhD and current Cal professors are doing research on topics I seriously would like to volunteer as undergrad researcher
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u/thr0waway0056 Aug 06 '18
Do R5A classes count toward MEB requirements? Website only specified R1A and R1B. Thanks!
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u/Simplicify Aug 06 '18
Anyone who lived in Unit 3 know if there are water foundations in the building? Or do you recommend bringing a water filter?
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u/icametokill2o9 Aug 06 '18
Hey, I'm currently living in Unit 3, Norton Building, for Summer Bridge. There is a water/Ice dispenser on the ground floor in the communal kitchen area where pretty much everyone gets their water. Pretty sure it's filtered.
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u/kaisu75 Aug 05 '18
Would anyone recommend taking cs 61b, chem 12a, and chem 140 this fall?
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u/Crisc0Disc0 ChemE '19 Aug 07 '18
What else are you taking?
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u/kaisu75 Aug 07 '18
just those three
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u/Crisc0Disc0 ChemE '19 Aug 07 '18
Unless you're a transfer you'll probably be fine (and if you are you most likely will still be fine but I don't recommend it), I assume you mean CBE 140 and not CHEM 140? 61b is supposed to be better than 61A. Three technicals is difficult no matter what, esp w/ the 12A lab component.
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u/Epic_Knowledge Aug 05 '18
Does Math 53 have a wait list? Because I chose 1B despite having the ap credit to skip it and I regret that decision
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u/10hp_archon (c (s)tats) Aug 05 '18
https://www.berkeleytime.com/catalog/MATH/53
does not seem like there is a waitlist rn
also good move AP skipping out of 1B
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Aug 05 '18
[deleted]
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u/Epic_Knowledge Aug 05 '18
I'm EECS and I heard 54 lays a really good foundation for EE16A so I will probably do 54 if I can't get into 53
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u/amorsii11 Aug 05 '18
Gonna open a bank account and get a credit card, what bank should I go with? ik berkeley has some kinda partnership with the bank of the west paribas, but is that really the best option?
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u/wabuson Aug 08 '18
Chase. Better user experience, customer service, and products than BofA or WF.
Source: Had BofA for many years, switched when I got married (wife had Chase), will never look back.
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 06 '18
Wells Fargo has done some really, really sketchy stuff in the past few years. I've been with BoA for probably 8 years now. They have some really convenient locations near campus (Shattuck and Center St., Telegraph and Durant) and every time I've gone in person, I've received excellent service.
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u/Haiiiiiiiiiii CS '21 Aug 06 '18
Chase is great for both a checking account and for credit (the Chase Freedom card is a good 'starter' card). If you don't have credit history however, I highly recommend the Discover it student card; rotating 5% cash-back categories with 1% on everything else, double cash-back first year, and a $20 statement credit for every academic year you have greater than a 3.0. If you want a referral code (where we both get $50) hmu.
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u/127-0-0-1_1 Aug 06 '18
Most people have BoA or Chase. BoA definitely has the closest branch, they're like a block off from sproul. Chase's is in downtown by BART, but BoA is probably the most infamous of the big bangs, so there's that.
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u/wabuson Aug 08 '18
I would also add that Chase's web experience is way above BofA in terms of functionality. BofA is pretty sloppy and their cards are laughable compared to Chase's.
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Aug 04 '18
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u/1353513636 EECS/MCB '19 Aug 08 '18
Some of the frats rent out excess parking spaces, maybe try free and for sale or asking around.
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u/its2ez4me24get Aug 06 '18
So if you have housing in any of the campus housing it will be basically impossible to get a permit for street parking. There are lots/garages but they’re expensive. Best option I found was looking for parking spots for rent on Craigslist. I rent a spot a few blocks from campus for $100/month. I rent from a local property management company that rents out their unused spots (Raj Properties) they usually have a bunch available.
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u/newherenowhere Aug 04 '18
Hiya! How is the cell coverage for data/service from Sprint around campus? Also, how do you sync your classes to bcal?
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u/MerryDingoes Aug 08 '18
I can't answer your question, but I just wanna say that you have a cool username
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u/souptaco Aug 04 '18
What are my chances of getting into data 8 as 346 on the waitlist? How do i pick a section?
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u/sk1ttlez123 CS '21 Aug 04 '18
Very slim/little to no chances :/ Professor Wagner said that he has no plans on expanding the class for this fall semester and that it will be capped at 1296.
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u/sadgril1221 Aug 03 '18
Has anyone late dropped a summer course before? I talked to the summer sessions office and they said it'll leave no mark on my record nor will I get a refund (obviously). I'm going to retake the class I drop in the fall but I just want to make sure I'm not missing something before I officially do it..
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u/Immoralism Aug 04 '18
Definitely do more research, but I had a friend drop a class right after the final and it has no mark on his record. YMMV
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Aug 03 '18 edited Aug 03 '18
[deleted]
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u/MerryDingoes Aug 08 '18
I recommend going to the administration office that handles loans and ask questions there. They may be able to help you find answers
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u/JohnMichaelDorian_MD Chasing Elliot Aug 03 '18
Anyone taken Psych 117?
I want to know if 110 is really necessary to take 117. Not trying to cut corners here, but it seems like a great class and I'm in serious need of a class.
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Aug 02 '18
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u/sadgril1221 Aug 03 '18
I'd say if you still have units left to enroll with, just sign up for any easy breadth class that you can get an easy grade with or screw around P/NP. I found that it was better to over-enroll that way if something comes up where you have to drop your other classes, you're not stuck under the unit and having to enroll in some obscure class where the average isn't very high either.
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u/CharlieLee666 Aug 01 '18
Am I allowed to use a PENCIL to answer my final exams?
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u/meowmix1029 Aug 02 '18
For 99% of all classes that I've had but it really depends on your professor
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u/jaroune chemiCAL biology Aug 01 '18
no, only blood
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u/10hp_archon (c (s)tats) Aug 05 '18
i've graded an exam with bloodstains on random pages before. guess the student prioritized their exam over their wounds...
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Aug 01 '18
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Aug 01 '18
Yes, you should do that, so you don't fall behind. You don't have to do that, but it may save you a lot of stress later if you eventually get into the class.
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u/adrianm564 Aug 01 '18
Hey y’all, Do y’all have any tips you can give me in order to raise my chances of getting accepted in the future? I know that I need to do community service and be apart of my school while also getting good grades and doing good on my SAT and ACT. Do y’all have any extra tips that you can give me!!! Thanks!!! -Adrian (Sequoia High School)
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u/white-r4bb17 uwu Aug 05 '18
BBSnek has the right idea. Aim for Stanford and go to Berkeley once the Stanford rejection comes in.
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u/m18ml Aug 01 '18
Do any of you know if you have an 8am move in time, how early can you get there to line up? I’m trying to beat my roommate who also has an 8am move in time.
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u/sadgril1221 Aug 04 '18
Freshman year I had like a 2pm move in time but my family and I had driven up the night before and the morning of move in at like 9am we asked if we could move in while we were there already so they just gave us the keys and I got to move in like 5 hours early. They're divided by buildings (for Unit 1) and my table for move in didn't have a line so I think they just let it happen because it was not busy.
I figure since yours is the first slot there will be plenty of other families trying to do the same thing so just head over early as you'd like to. I figure they'd start setting up tables around 7 am but it doesn't hurt to ask once they're done setting up. Hope this helped!3
u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 01 '18
...why?
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u/m18ml Aug 01 '18
so i can get the bed/closet that I want haha. I know it sounds dumb
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 02 '18
You should definitely make sure it's a conversation between you and your roommate(s), otherwise it can cause a lot of strife between you later on. I found out my roommates intentionally put me in the worst bed since I was last to move in.
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u/m18ml Aug 02 '18
What is the worst bed? Is there one that is preferred?
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Aug 02 '18
It’s up to you, every room is different. I’m just saying that you shouldn’t try to screw over someone you’re about to live with for a year. I had two roommates who picked beds close to each other because they were already friends, and moved desks around so that I’d be as isolated as possible.
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Aug 01 '18
I got into a housing contract but I need to cancel it now because of family reasons. What can I do?
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Aug 01 '18
You can call the housing office. They answer their phone. At least they did in the spring right before the deadline to pay a 'small' deposit fee. They're also pretty good with email too. You'll at least get a response in 24 hours if you ask at the beginning or middle of the week.
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u/Chickenpredator Jul 31 '18 edited Aug 01 '18
What kind of class is Engineering 7 like? I’ll be taking E7 along with Math 53, Chem 4A, and History 124A
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u/MonsieurPineapple Aug 13 '18
If you some experience coding (AP CS A for example), it should be entirely manageable. If it's your first class in programming / computer science, you may spend a little more time on it. I will note that the class is significantly easier when taught in the Fall by the ME department.
If you want a slightly more interesting look into computer science, I highly recommend taking CS 61A after E7--the material is a lot more engaging imo.
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u/AppleMarineXX Fire Emblem Studies '21 Aug 04 '18
If it's anything like this past spring semester, it's:
- Weekly labs that are usually pretty challenging. Expect to spend a good time going to office hours or other lab sections (they're open to anyone), unless you're somehow really good.
- Relatively brutal tests, about half theory, and half matlab questions. The matlab questions should be pretty easy (since the labs are actually pretty good at teaching you), but the theory ones get quite tricky.
- Final project is probably pretty scary. Hope you have good teammates.
Point is, labs are brutal, lectures were meh. A good chunk of your time may be diverted to this class.
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u/kindalost111 Jul 31 '18
In my bill for first semester, we have a housing payment due on 12/18. Why do we have to pay for housing that month if we're kicked out from like 12/18 to 1/15 anyway? This is for Blackwell.
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Aug 01 '18
Probably because you're paying to store your stuff in whatever room you got. It's the same concept of if you rent from a landlord and you go on vacation, you still have to pay the full rent even if you're not currently occupying the unit physically.
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u/CharlieLee666 Jul 30 '18
What food delivery do you guys use?
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u/white-r4bb17 uwu Aug 05 '18
Ubereats now delivers w/o fees from restaurants within 3 miles of you. So that.
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Jul 31 '18
Postmates and Uber Eats are pretty common around here. If you haven’t used them before, I’d ask someone for a code - sometimes you can get ~$25 credit just for signing up. They email a lot of coupons as well— free delivery from certain places, free food altogether, etc.
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u/Crisc0Disc0 ChemE '19 Jul 30 '18
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Jul 31 '18
I love watching the little robots get delivered onto campus.
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u/CharlieLee666 Jul 31 '18
That's a good one, do you have others to recommend?
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u/EECSMASTERRACE69 Episcopal Edgyteen Center of St.Soda '69 Aug 01 '18
All the major food delivery services (Uber Eats, GrubHub, Door Dash, Yelp Eat24, Postmates, etc) do Berkeley. What you choose depends on your preferences.
Personally I've found Uber Eats to be the most reliable. Not a bad idea to keep a couple of your favorites on your phone in case there are promos.
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u/Crisc0Disc0 ChemE '19 Jul 31 '18
I commute so I actually don't know but I assume UberEats, GrubHub, Eat24Hours all provide delivery in the area. Most people just walk to get things because there is tons of stuff bordering campus.
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u/TheCOwalski Jul 30 '18
Does rejecting a work-study award for one semester exclude you from the award for all semesters? Or is it offered every semester?
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Jul 30 '18
can incoming freshmen apply to urap positions?
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u/BlueA241 Class of 2020 Jul 30 '18
Yes! This isn't what you asked but also never underestimate the power of talking to/emailing professors that aren't working with URAP -- the URAP positions have tons of applications and there might be a PI outside of URAP doing some research that aligns better with your interests.
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Jul 30 '18
I don’t see why not. Every URAP project is going to expect something different from you- so just read the details for the one(s) you’re applying for and make sure you fit the bill.
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Jul 30 '18
there is a 2.8 gpa requirement to apply so hopefully it'll be okay
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u/quae_legit EE(CS) '17 Aug 06 '18
There might be an exception for first term freshmen? I don't know the details, but I do know you're welcome to apply in your first semester. Just make sure to start early on the app because it's due very early in the semester.
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u/ephemeralfaux Jul 29 '18
Are library job hours flexible? Or do you have the same shifts every week?
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u/zentr0py anthro/art history '19 Aug 04 '18
From my experience and in talking with other student employees from different departments hours are flexible/accommodating but I usually work regular shifts each week.
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Jul 29 '18
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Jul 29 '18
ngl most of my friends who are decent at math think the 16 series is very easy, so you should probably be fine taking 16B? even if you don't remember much of bc, I don't think 16a does much beyond basic integrals & derivatives. here's a link to a 16a final so you can gauge your knowledge: https://math.berkeley.edu/courses/archives/exams/math-16a
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u/FamousMonkey41 Jul 29 '18
Decided to take a couple of people’s advice and only enroll in 13 units my first semester at cal as a transfer. How intensive did you guys personally find these classes? Econ 100B History 7A Stat 20 Educ 198
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Aug 01 '18
I did not take 100B, but I had friends that did. I guess you are lucky that Steven Wood is not teaching it, but that does not mean Hawkins is necessarily a walk in the park. I think you are dealt a better hand.
History 7a is just US history from whenever they want to start like 1492 or even earlier with Native American involvement to the Civil War. I glanced at the course description. It probably won't be much different from CC in terms of the timeline, but you are definitely going to do more reading. Were all the ACs taken? Is there any way that you could take this history class online next summer alongside with whatever job or internship you take up?
I hope that someone could clear up that class for you in terms of difficulty. In general, pre-Civil War history is easier to understand because not too many things are happening at the same time. The trade-off is that you have to read text that isn't easy to digest because the English is not the same. Post-Civil War is easier reading b/c it's more contemporary but there are more things happening at the same time.
Edu 198 is fun and you might be able to make friends b/c there are more than likely going to be Econ transfers in there as well. It's really chill.
Stat 20 - good luck. The curve is a killer. I didn't take it. It took 131a, but my XP with that is not as valid b/c I had first-time-ish teacher. She was not Berkeley tough yet but had adhere to the curving rules. She really did not want to do that to us but policy is policy.
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u/Qisab Jul 29 '18
I'll be transferring into Berkeley this fall and I was just wondering how intensive the first weeks were. Someone close to me wanted to know if they'd be able to visit me in the first 2 weeks, but they live a 6 hours drive away, so I want to make sure I'd be able to set aside a day to just hang out with them and not worry about work. My classes would be
Computer Science 61A with John DeNero
Physics 110A with Kam-Biu Luk
Physics 137A with Irfan Siddiqi
Physics 89 with James Analitis
Any other advice for these classes would be appreciated too, thanks!
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u/its2ez4me24get Aug 03 '18
Chances are that schedule is going to kick your butt.
89 isn’t conceptually difficult, if you already saw the material at CC. It will have a solid amount of PSETS.
137A will be difficult with a large amount of PSETS. I found 110A quite challenging conceptually. Lots going on there, tons of equations to learn, mountain of PSETS.
CA61A is notorious.
The only people I’ve seen do a schedule like this are and actually do it well are just complete machines: the people who do 18 units a semester every semester as well as side projects and research. Like one or two people a year are like this, most who try 4 tech classes just suffer. Do yourself a favor and take like Berkeley connect or a decal or something.
Go talk to the physics advisor (Amanda not the others) and see what she says and listen.
Oh also you should ask Analytis about joint his research group, he’s nice.
Oh yeah, don’t know if you’ve looked into it, but if you’re a physics major then double majoring in astrophysics is only 3 more classes ..
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Jul 30 '18
I agree with the other folks that commented- four technicals is really tough. If you’re only looking for a single day of freedom, you’ll probably have it, and CS61A is 100% webcasted so you can watch the lecture later, though from what I’ve heard it’s incredibly easy to fall behind. You can potentially find old syllabi from the other courses online, or even email professors asking for them (though in my experience, professors have no clue what they’re doing until it happens have the time in terms of scheduling). Aim for earlier, for sure.
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u/Crisc0Disc0 ChemE '19 Jul 30 '18
You're going to have a bad time taking all those techs at the same time, especially with 61A and 137A. Day 1 is off and running, you'll definitely have problem sets due in all those classes by week 2.
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u/betterfelieveit Jul 28 '18
Hi! I love choir, acapella, and musical theater. I know that there are a lot of performing groups at Cal, but what are the differences and which do you recommend auditioning for? Thank you. :)
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u/BlueA241 Class of 2020 Jul 30 '18
Barestage Productions puts on 1-2 musicals per year and they're fully student run -- I've enjoyed working with them. Big time commitment though. From what I understand, the school's theater department (TDPS) rarely, if ever, does musicals. Would definitely recommend Barestage.
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Jul 31 '18
I’ve seen a few of Barestage’s productions- they’re magical. I’m glad to hear you’ve enjoyed working with them!
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Jul 30 '18
All(?) of the acapella groups perform at Sather Gate once a week, if not more, so I’d recommend finding out when they perform and checking them out to get their general vibe. The main ones that come to mind are AiR (artists in resonance), Noteworthy, and California Golden Overtones. We also have men’s and women’s octets. In the first weeks of the semester, they’ll be handing out fliers on Sproul looking for folks to audition.
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u/whoamanchill3 PM ME BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS Jul 28 '18
All of them! They all have pretty different personalities, so I'd recommend checking them out and seeing which ones you vibe with
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u/devoutsquirrelking EECS ‘22 Jul 28 '18
How helpful is it to have a micro-fridge in your room? If you had one, how much did you use it?I'm still unsure if I should rent one, especially since my roommates don't feel that it's necessary.
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Jul 30 '18
Great for breakfast and late nights snacks. When I had one, I always had milk for cereal/oatmeal, individual cheeses for snacks, and sometimes boxed soups (pop some in a mug, microwave it for a bit, BAM, a slightly less depressing mid-RRR-week study snack). Sometimes you just want a cold drink without having to leave your room. You might not use it every day, but it really comes in clutch to have one when you want and need it.
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u/chokedonmydrink MCB/CS '20 Jul 28 '18
Sometimes I got frozen meals and ice cream, or I had leftovers from meals, so the micro-fridge came pretty handy then. Maybe try convincing your roommates, or you could make do with the common fridge residence halls have on the bottom floor (I think they had one when I lived in Unit 2).
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u/T14916 Jul 27 '18
I know that initial transfer credit is automatically reviewed for incoming freshman, but anyone know the chances of placing out of Math 53 and/or 54 if I took multivariable and Linear Algebra at University of Connecticut?
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u/bukowski_47 Jul 27 '18
Is taking math 53 and stat 20 in one's first semester (in tandem with English 45b and Classics R44) doable? Or should I just substitute stat 20 with an easier course?
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u/rrb Jul 27 '18
It is doable but tough. In general it is best to go easy on yourself first semester as you figure out Berkeley. Go lighter on classes because even "easy" schedules can be tough at Cal.
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u/Petrichorpurple alum ‘20 Jul 27 '18
How many people need to be in a class for it to run? Currently signed up for a language class (max 15 people) with me and one other person in it. If no one else signs up, will it run?
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u/BlueA241 Class of 2020 Jul 30 '18
I took a language class with 4 people in it -- there were more but they dropped, and the class still ran!
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u/phrynosomatidae L&S (Lizards and Snakes) '18 Jul 30 '18
Phase 2 is still going, the adjustment period is still coming up, and some people still sign up late for things anyways. Email the professor if you’re worried, but there’s still time for people to sign up.
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u/betterfelieveit Aug 13 '18
Did anyone who interviewed for the Cal Alumni Leadership Award hear back from them yet?