Where better to prepare for a career in writing music for film than California? The Centre for New Music and Audio Technologies at the University of California's Berkeley Campus is world-famous, but Elisabeth Viggers knew that there was more on offer. When she applied to UQ Abroad, Elisabeth, a Music (Composition) student wanted to meet international musicians and immerse herself in the diverse musical culture there. However since arriving in Berkeley, Elisabeth has found that there's even more to life there.
"It is such a lovely place" she says "filled with weirdos and totally left-wing people. There are dogs in the grocery stores and hippies and vocal womens' rights activists everywhere. Not to mentional people dressed in clown shoes and Mad Hatter hats".
Elisabeth had good reason to choose the University of California for her exchange. It is one of the top public universities in the world and operates on ten campuses throughout the state. The Berkeley Campus is just across the bay from San Francisco and offers plenty of academic, social and accommodation opportunities to suit all kinds of students. Elisabeth chose not to live on campus but says "My housemate has lent me a bike which is great because I am about an hour's walk from campus... Recycling and bike-riding is essential in this community. I feel like I'm in heaven!"
If you are interested in starting an exchange to the University of California in 2009, get the ball rolling now! Click here for the facts. This is the best way to find out about the application process, and how you, like Elisabeth, could win a scholarship to get you on your way.
Elisabeth's tip for adjusting to life in Berkeley? Look for the signs...
