UQ Program: Bachelor of Arts
The University of California, Santa Cruz operates on a quarter system; basically, this means that all the work that we would do in a semester, and more, is put into a ten week timeframe. In terms of academics, the exchange system is fairly confusing while you find subjects that are available and that match Australian courses. It’s best in this aspect to go in with electives.
Living in the American dorms was a split second decision and a fantastic experience; my roommate helped me out so much at the beginning of quarter, picking me up from the airport, taking me shopping, and introducing me to other people in our House. They, in turn, were incredibly helpful and took me on tours of campus for the first three days until I could wrap my head around it. Campus is set in the middle of a forest of redwood trees. This gives you the ability to hike any day of the week, or take two hour walks through the neighbouring national park to natural rivers and picturesque backdrops. The short quarter meant I had to travel after the exchange, during the holidays, but this had the advantage of letting me travel with new friends.
I found the trip to be a little more expensive than I anticipated; goods and services are cheap there but remember you have to set yourself up a room, including linens and washing materials. I’d conservatively recommend AUD$7000 for that, room and board. Travelling is expensive but making American friends can help a lot with that; I was able to stay with a lot of families in my travels.
The first two weeks were a great chance to make friends; remember that you live with these people, and there’s nothing to be gained by staying in your room and allowing yourself to be discouraged. At the end of my time there, I felt a lot more settled in myself, and a lot more mature. I feel like my priorities have been completely re-aligned, and that I’m really able to make plans for my life after university.
5 TOP TIPS:
1. Watch out for CSOs – these are Campus Safety Officers, who are generally lovely older men in charge of looking out for under-agers drinking or so on. They are usually very understanding, but make sure you read up on your rights and responsibilities.
2. ‘The Prairie’ is the hill across the road from the fields- this is a great place to have a night out with friends. Bring a couple of blankets, drinks of choice, and you have a glorious view of Santa Cruz city and the bay.
3. Trader Joes in downtown Santa Cruz is a godsend- ‘two-buck Chuck’ is a great wine for only $2.28, they have great frozen tacos or burritos and cheap organic goods.
4. College 9/10 dining halls are open until midnight for late night dining!
5. Get ready for a lot of walking! Santa Cruz campus is very large, and home to many hills. Remember that all the outskirts of campus can be reached by bus, but walking is often faster and much more beautiful.