Hey everyone!
I’m an incoming freshman at Pasadena City College, and my goal is to transfer to UCLA in two years as a Biology major. I’m really trying to be intentional with my time at PCC and make the most of these next two years.
So far, I’ve joined EOP&S, the Honors Program/Honor Society, and JAM. I know maintaining a strong GPA is the biggest factor, but I’m wondering what else I can do to make my application stronger and stand out.
I completed most of my general education requirements in high school, so the main GEs I have left are English and math. Because of that, I have a little more flexibility in my schedule and want to use that time wisely.
This fall, I’m taking two honors classes (English and Calculus), General Chemistry, and College Seminar. I’m really trying to build a strong foundation from day one. I’d love to create a roadmap for the next two years, not just academically, but also through leadership, extracurriculars, and opportunities that will help me become a stronger UCLA transfer applicant.
For those who successfully transferred to UCLA (especially Biology, STEM, or pre-med majors), what are some things you wish you had done sooner?
I’m especially interested in:
- Clubs or organizations that are actually worth joining
- Leadership opportunities
- Research opportunities
- Internships
- Volunteering (especially in healthcare or biology)
- Transfer programs or campus resources I should take advantage of
- Ways to build a stronger extracurricular profile
- Scheduling strategies or classes that helped you succeed
I genuinely want to be as involved as possible instead of just going to class and heading home. I really want to challenge myself and use my time wisely at PCC.
Any advice, tips, or even things you wish someone had told you as an incoming freshman would mean a lot. Thank you!
r/ucla, r/UCLA_University, r/PCC, r/PasadenaCityCollege_, r/pasadena, r/premed, r/biology, r/TransferStudents r/Advice r/ApplyingToCollege, r/college, r/UCLABruins