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Ernesto from Oakland, CA
06/12/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 1 of 22
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Yeah.
Tips for prospective students Be prepared for culture shock if you're conservative. Take plenty of notes. Talk to students, talk to teachers, be social.
Bang for the buck just like other Peralta school, this is a tenth of what you would be spending on a 4 year college, and as such it's worth it and as long as you're passionate about what you want to you no doubt will want to come here and take a crash course.
Am enjoying being here Berkeley is quite a place to be in and the school is no doubt one that is very unique in demographic and everyone is considerate and the staff does it's best to relate to their students.
Am learning a lot This is a great school mainly for art students and multimedia students. I personally loved the help that was given to me by teachers who are experienced in their professions.
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Alexandra from Lafayette, CA
12/30/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 2 of 22
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Berkeley City College is great for any first-time college students, students from low-income backgrounds, students seeking occupational certificates or any other type of fulfillment from higher education. At Berkeley City College there are students from every age range, ethnic and religious background, and other aspects demographic diversity.
Tips for prospective students Enroll early! There are so many students enrolled at Berkeley City College each semester - classes fill up incredibly fast. Also, make sure to meet with a counselor to map out your academic goals while a student at Berkeley City College... This is important, because if you choose to transfer to a University, you will need certain lower-division classes and other prerequisites from BCC.
Bang for the buck Berkeley City College is a wonderful, cheap alternative for receiving a general education certificate or preparation to transfer to a University as a Junior. Budget cuts have affected the fees and price of tuition for enrolled students, but the costs to attend are still drastically cheaper than attempting to go to a 4 year institution. My suggestion to any new college student is to spend their first 2 years at a community college. Berkeley City College offers a wonderful selection of classes for a fraction of the cost as a University.
Am enjoying being here Berkeley City College has an atmosphere of cultural diversity, creativity, and a devotion to academic and self-enrichment that I genuinely enjoy and benefit from. Because of BCC's location in downtown Berkeley, there are students from all walks of life - simply attending Berkeley City College can be a social and cultural learning experience in and of itself. It is very easy to make friends and to build relationships with the professors, as the diverse atmosphere of the college is one of tolerance for all types of people... The students and staff of Berkeley City College are very happy to interact with one another.
Am learning a lot Berkeley City College (BCC) has a lot of wonderful professors on staff. Also, because of BCC's close vicinity to the University of California Berkeley (UCB), there are often UCB professors that teach part-time at BCC. I have noticed that my professors at BCC are consistently very knowledgeable and passionate about the areas of study that they are representing in their classes. Unfortunately, because of budget cuts, under-staffing and overcrowding, I have felt at times that the curriculum has been rushed or watered down a bit.
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Ala'ah from Richmond, CA
02/09/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 3 of 22
Categories Comments What to do for fun there are a couple arcades, lounges, and shopping stores around. in this part of berkeley, you have to roam and discover.
Food and Dining no cafeteria, but there are plenty of surrounding restaurants and cafe's to dine.
Dorm Life no dorms.
Academic Rigor the teachers are very professional and focused on providing students with the best education.
Tips for prospective students take care of business and stay focused.
In three sentences i really like berkeley city college. although it can be crowded, its very organized and visually pleasing.
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Nishant from San Pablo, CA
07/15/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 4 of 22
Categories Comments Campus Safety There are always staff and security at work to make meet students safety concerns. The entire building is cleaned twice a day to ensure the school is tidy and clean.
Clubs and Activities There aren't many clubs to interact, because it is a tiny school. They do have school events going on every month for students. There are a lot of social awareness events occurring every now and then. A recent chess club was initiated by a couple of students. They also work-study for students who are looking to make a little extra money, and there are also elections for those who would like to play a role in making a change. There aren't any sports team, because there is no field nor coaches.
Great for these types of students This school is great for someone who is exploring (undecided), wants to get into Cal, and part-time students.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Very liberal, and full of energy. They will speak their mind, and speak until their voices are heard. Student are energetic amongst the revolutions and fighting for the right thing.
Bang for the buck Each unit costs $36. Parking is not free for students and can get expensive. Food is also good but may get expensive as well.
What to do for fun There is a park near by, but a lot of bustle near by because Berkeley City College is very close to Berkeley High School. There are couple of bars around a a 5-mile radius. There is also a 24-Hr fitness and YMCA nearby.
Food and Dining Great variety and quantity of restaurants, cafe and shops to eat from, but the food can get a bit expensive.
Academic Rigor Most of the teachers are accurate and preserve the primitive knowledge, and stick to the basic concepts. All teachers have different ways, and there are only a few enthusiastic teachers that will teach with simpler words. But utmost all the teachers have full credentials, and knows what they are teaching.
Tips for prospective students Be an early bird. You will learn and prosper, if you can show that you are determined. Teachers can be very helpful if you are willing to show your determination. Go the extra mile. Arrive on time, finish work efficiently on timely manner, and ask questions. Also, if you drive there is a parking lot for student but you will have to pay. If you want to save money I prefer you bart, because it is only one block away.
In three sentences A place to explore your mind, thoughts and extend your creativity. It is very liberal, and full of liberal students and staff. Although, it might require a lot of advanced planning at preparing in order to get in to your classes, because the school is very small.
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Michael from Richmond, CA
05/22/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
5 of 22
Categories Comments Campus Safety The security is always on their job, and the police station is 1 block away, which means they can be at the school within 2-3 minutes.
Clubs and Activities many to choose from
Great for these types of students Great for different, artsy, flamboyant, earthy, and curious students.
Bang for the buck I am a writer, who has been studying Multi-Media Arts, every semester since 2008, and I presently carry a 3.6gpa cumulative. My desire is to finish school without loans, and I�ve been successful up to this point, mainly using my Cal grants. It isn�t that I am more deserving than the next applicant, but this investment will allow me to finish my last year successfully. I live in the Las Delta Housing project in Richmond, Ca. death and shooting is ramped, and drive-bys,coommon. The first struggle is getting to the bus stop and waiting, then taking the bus to the Bay Area Rapid Transit, which gets me to school; hoping that you will be okay and that God would look over you, especially when returning at night. I am a father of two boys, and this is our ticket out; EDUCATION. This scholarship would assist me greatly, and thank you for your consideration.
What to do for fun In the basement, all the clubs meet at different time, from the Chess club, to the Animation club, etc There are many options to consider, from clubs to student government.
Food and Dining The students' lounge on the 5th floor has a great selection to keep you in between classes, and there are several eateries within a 1-2 block distance.
Dorm Life I live off campus; there is no dorm life
Academic Rigor Only about 36% of students at BCC, registers from semester to semeter, and only about 19% actually graduate. You want to make time for the workload (10+units), because its the wrong time when you have to play catch-up.
Tips for prospective students Have an open mind, and allow yourself room to take classes of interest, as well as required classes. It helps the week go by much quicker.
In three sentences BCC is a melting pot of fine minds, great spirits and many cultures, brought to the boiling point of excellence. And because of the diversity we learn so much from one another, and seeing life through each others eyes is magical when it happens.
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Dejanae from San Leandro, CA
06/08/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
6 of 22
Categories Comments What to do for fun Sit in front of the school and people watch!
Food and Dining Tons of places and hole in the wall spots. Just walk near university or shattuck and you'll see all the possibilities.
Dorm Life There is none.
Tips for prospective students Meet with a counselor ASAP and keep meeting with them to make sure your on track. Don't be afraid to make friends, a lot of the people here are friendly. Don't be afraid to talk to your teachers either, most of them are willing to help you if you ask!
In three sentences A very diverse and cultured school. Most of the teachers are excellent at teaching and some of them come from different colleges to teach at BCC. There are also a lot of resources to help students succeed.
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Nicole from Oakland, CA
06/10/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
7 of 22
Categories Comments What to do for fun Movies, clubs, San Francisco is 20 minutes away. The East Bay rocks!
Food and Dining Great food in the area.
Dorm Life I live off campus
Academic Rigor Most teachers are great. I really enjoy my classes so far
Tips for prospective students Ask for help, it's here you just have to find it.
In three sentences This school seems somewhat disorganized. You really have to hustle to get what you need. Once found, recourse's are very helpful.
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Maria from Oakland, CA
06/20/2012Reviewer is A past student here.
8 of 22
Categories Comments Campus Safety Berkeley is generally very safe.
Clubs and Activities There are many clubs and you can form part of them and have fun.
What to do for fun There are many clubs on campus, and you can meet people from all over the world.
Food and Dining There are many options from cheep to very expensive.
Dorm Life You can find cheep housing a little bit harder from campus.
Academic Rigor Some programs are good some are not offered. Lately, many classes are being cut due to budget.
Tips for prospective students Good school if you want to transfer.
In three sentences Good english department, biology, and social science. Bad math department. Great location and facilities, however, is under-budget and poor staff in many departments.
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Begonia from Oakland, CA
07/02/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
9 of 22
Categories Comments Bang for the buck I am on a scholarship and receiving federal money, I cherish every day that I am in school. It is an amazing education.
What to do for fun Go dancing, hang out in coffee shops, yoga, movies, frozen yogurt!
Food and Dining Berkeley is home to at least a hundred amazing restaurant's.
Academic Rigor The Teachers at Berkeley City College are preparing you for 4-year universitys.
Tips for prospective students Make sure you sign up for your classes early, take all your UC requirements and go to class every day!
In three sentences A beautiful school in a beautiful small city where you can get the best education for the lowest price.
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LAURA from ORINDA, CA
07/10/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
10 of 22
Categories Comments Greek Life NON EXISTANT
Great for these types of students TRANSFER STUDENTS. STUDENTS WHO ARE NOT READY FOR A 4 YEAR SCHOOL. PEOPLE LOOKING TO LEARN A NEW SUBJECT.
What to do for fun HEY IT'S BERKELEY, THERE ARE SO MANY OPTIONS, WHATEVER YOU WANT TO DO IS AVAILABLE IN THE SF BAY AREA.
Food and Dining NOTHING IN THE BUILDING EXCEPT FREE LUNCHES ON VARIOUS HOLIDAYS, VENDING ON THE 5TH FLOOR AND SNACKS IN THE BOOKSHOP....BUT YOU ARE IN DOWNTOWN BERKELEY, AND THOSE OPTIONS ARE AMAZING!
Dorm Life COMMUTER SCHOOL
Tips for prospective students REGISTER EARLY
In three sentences MULTICULTURAL EXPERIENCE WITH A VARIETY OF OPTIONS TO STUDY. CONVENIENT LOCATION IN DOWNTOWN BERKELEY, THE BEST WAY TO TRANSFER TO A UC.
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Mariya from Berkeley, CA
07/25/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
11 of 22
Categories Comments Campus Safety Excellent
Greek Life None
Clubs and Activities Alternative Economics Club, BCC Animation, Berkeley City Tigers (Soccer), BCC Bike Club, Black Student Union, Board Game Club Bollywood Dance, Civic Engagement, Club Persia, Conscious Capitalism, Digital Arts, D-Zine Engineering Society, Global Speakers, Global Studies, Health and Fitness Club, Indigenous Student Alliance, Latin American Club, The Literary Club, Mathematics and Accounting Club, The Milvia Street Club, Muslim Students Association, Tobacco-Less Club, Unity Arts, University Transfer Club, Young Democrats.
Great for these types of students Berkeley City College welcomes everyone. One could enjoy the diversity of age, culture, race, nationality, and educational background of students, faculty, and staff.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Graduation Ceremony is held at Zellerbach Auditorium, which is the UC Berkeley Performance Hall. On campus one could attend numerous free events, such as symphony performance, art exhibits, free movie nights, cultural events, etc.
Bang for the buck One receives the opportunity to enroll into Concurrent Enrollment Program, which allows students to take classes at 10 UC universities, all state and some private universities for the price of the community college class. The distance between Berkeley City College and UC Berkeley is 1.5 blocks (0.2 mi (about 2 mins)
What to do for fun Join: Varieties of clubs- to meet people with joint interests, Ambassador's desk. Create: Study groups to grow intellectually while sharing time with friends.
Food and Dining None
Tips for prospective students To apply for: TRIO, EOPS, Mentor's Certificate Summer Program
In three sentences History of Berkeley City College: http://www.berkeleycitycollege.edu/wp/programs/files/2010/08/History_of_BCC.pdf
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Davis from Oakland, CA
08/07/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
12 of 22
Categories Comments What to do for fun Due to its close proximity to Berkeley and Oakland, BCC has plenty to offer in the fun department. My personal favorite is the Saturday farmer's market located one block West of the school, featuring an assortment of vendors, produce, and pop-up street foods. Music venues, independent movie theaters, bars, parks, and bicycle paths make for a vibrant reprieve from scholastic life.
Food and Dining BCC is located in Downtown Berkeley, adjacent to several restaurants, pubs, and fast food eateries. It is approximately half a mile from a district renowned for its affordable, yet acclaimed dining experience known as The Gourmet Ghetto. This district is home to Thai, Himalayan, Mexican, Caribbean, Japanese, and slow-food movement eateries including Alice Water's famous Chez Panisse restaurant.
Dorm Life Dorm life is nonexistent at Berkeley City College. Students are encouraged to plan their housing situation prior to attendance. Luckily, BCC is located in Downtown Berkeley, making it accessible through various forms of public transportation including Bart train and buses.
Academic Rigor BCC classes often require a reasonable amount of devotion from students, while taking into account their extracurricular and professional lives. That being said, It is recommended that students take between 9 and 15 units, depending on the individual's scholastic availability. Tutors are available, and their devotion to ameliorating the academic rigor is highly recommended, particularly in mathematics and english.
Tips for prospective students Due to a growing number of students hoping to complete general education prior to transfer, the student body often outweighs class availability. It is essential to sign up as early as possible. Reading general education requirements, and AA-degree requirements prior to signing up can be advantageous to those seeking a quick and efficient transfer/certification.
In three sentences Berkeley City College offers a variety of focuses from students wishing to fulfill general education requirements, to returning professionals hoping to retrain themselves in a variety of fields. Associate degrees and certificate programs are offered throughout, and are designed to create a well rounded scholar while preparing them for the work force. Due to BCC's affiliation with Peralta Colleges, credits and placement scores are easily transferable between all four colleges that make up the Peralta community.
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Jabari from Oakland, CA
08/14/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
13 of 22
Categories Comments Campus Safety It's pretty safe, but then again you have to be able to 'look' like you can defend yourself.
Greek Life Awesome!
Clubs and Activities I don't know of any. Yet.
Great for these types of students Urban people.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Nope.
Bang for the buck With Berkeley High School right in the area, I best to do all your registration early to get there before they do. The classes there fill up fast.
What to do for fun Peace Wall Park is right down the street which good for skateboarders. There also is a movie Theatre located on Shattuck no far from the college.
Food and Dining The food options are good. The college is very urban, so this connects to its community of urban people looking for fast food places.
Dorm Life No dorm options.
Academic Rigor none.
Tips for prospective students Apply for EOPS.
In three sentences Customer service is alright. The campus is really nice. Local food plac es and entertainment is available, and that's good.
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Patrick from Oakland, CA
09/14/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
14 of 22
Categories Comments What to do for fun Sign painter
Dorm Life I don't live in a dorm.
Tips for prospective students Don't be afraid to ask someone.
In three sentences Great campus very informative staff and very helpful.
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Karina from Oakland, CA
01/24/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
15 of 22
Categories Comments Clubs and Activities Leadership club and student embassy.
Great for these types of students Students or aren't afraid of a new environment, also for students willing to meet a lot of new people.
What to do for fun You can always join their leadership clubs and become a part of the student embassy.
Dorm Life No dorm life.
Academic Rigor They are very strict on when things and how things should be done, that is very helpful so you cn keep everything on track and right.
Tips for prospective students Make sure you have everything set for financial aid and prepare on time to get better classes!
In three sentences Berkeley City College is helpful in many ways. It keeps you productive and optimistic. The students/workers are very helpful.
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Javad from Iran-Islamic Republic Of
03/06/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
16 of 22
Categories Comments Food and Dining it is very important that students food be ready and they easily and without taking extra bag come to university and be more comfortable . for me it is a dream to eat food in berkeley university with other iranians and also everyone.
Dorm Life dorm life is better for those students who should drive a long way to arrive to the university, but for me it is good for others, too because they learn how to stay on their feets and how to do in public. and also they can study their lessons in dorm and berkeley allows these.
Academic Rigor it is very important to have academic rigor and it helps learning very much because your mind , brain and eyes are working and it causes very good learning. each university which use this gets more benefits. and for me berkeley is the best.
In three sentences it's an amazing universitite it has all majors which I can study them and best of all I can get scholarship with my marks, and study the rest in berkeley, and I know an iranian student name is sina saeidi who is studying there.
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Imari from Oakland, CA
05/29/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
17 of 22
Categories Comments Campus Safety There is great staff of campus security and they are friendly and watch all the camera screens. great staff!
What to do for fun For fun you could walk down by telegraph and go to downtown Berkeley by around there and hang out , go to thrift stores or simply just have a nice day and eat. Nothing majorly fun here.
Food and Dining The food around this college is great! there are so many places to eat around here and if you want to do homework or study there are two coffee shops with wifi and Starbucks near by .
Dorm Life Sadly, there is no dorm life.
Academic Rigor At time the schedule might be a little crazy because of a rushed schedule because of a teacher but over all, the academic status of this good is great and you learn so much in so little time.
Tips for prospective students If you struggle in a class just go downstairs to the learning center and ask advice from other students or the tutors. The learning center is a huge help.
In three sentences This school had great professors whom actually care about your grades in the class. The tutors at this school are really amazing and take the time to help you with anything you need at any pace you need. Last but not least, they have a lot of clubs for the students to get more involved in the school and I think that that is the most important thing for student enrolled in the school become more active in the school as well as the community.
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Jennifer from Long Beach, CA
07/13/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
18 of 22
Categories Comments Campus Safety As safe as the public may be. Berkeley is a public school and is open to the public.
Great for these types of students Everyone has the same chance at fitting in and doing well. Berkeley is a city without prejudice.
Food and Dining Grab ice-cream for $1, yummy. This might sound like an unusual diet, but ice-cream tastes delicious anytime of the day.
Dorm Life I live off campus and that is because Berkeley City College does not offer dorms.
Academic Rigor No one associates the word easy with college. College is like yoga, you get what you put into it; if you work hard good things will come; if you slack off, you cannot expect a victory.
Tips for prospective students Study well, review your material.
In three sentences Berkeley is a great school! The staff are helpful and the teachers are personable. Have a great semester.
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Amelia from Berkeley, CA
11/09/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
19 of 22
Categories Comments Food and Dining Unfortunately there is no onsite food. The student lounge has drinks and some snacks. There is a good amount of food within walking distance.
Dorm Life There is no dorm.
Academic Rigor I think the caliber of education is very high.
Tips for prospective students Be aware that online classes can generate quite a bit of homework. They are not easier than onsite classes.
In three sentences I am highly impressed with the teachers I have had. The facility is extremely nice and convenient to public transit. THe students are friendly.
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Irie from Berkeley, CA
01/22/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
20 of 22
Categories Comments Campus Safety This campus is very safe and is an extremely safe neighborhood. It is in a very urban location with the Berkeley High School and Berkeley Police Department less than a block away.
Clubs and Activities Because the students at BCC do not live on campus and it is a community college, there are not as many clubs as other schools. However, there are some special interest and culture clubs for students who are interested.
Great for these types of students For high school students who want or need extra credits, for students who plan to transfer to another school, for students who want to only take a few credits or only online classes, for students who want a very affordable alternative.
Bang for the buck There is a very wide spectrum of classes offered that are applicable for credit towards other public and private schools. The professors are very well educated and experienced and the advisers and counselors are all very helpful. The cost is very low while the school has options for used books and plenty of financial aid.
What to do for fun BCC is nearby several movie theaters and is in a great neighborhood to walk around. There are several parks nearby and it is also in walking distance to the famous Telegraph Avenue where there are lots of street events. The close by UC Berkeley campus often has events that are open to the public as well.
Food and Dining BCC does not offer its own food options, however, because it is downtown and is nearby UC Berkeley, most of the nearby restaurants are marketed towards college students. Berkeley is a very diverse city so there are plenty of different cuisines at very reasonable prices. There are also a few grocery stores nearby, including Trader Joe's.
Dorm Life Because BCC is a community college, there are not any dorms. However, BCC is very centrally located in downtown Berkeley and is easily accessible with public transportation. Also, it is close to UC Berkeley so there are lots of housing opportunities especially for college students nearby.
Academic Rigor While I have learned a lot of interesting information in my classes here, they are not very demanding. I think there is an appropriate amount of work required and someone who has a job or other demands should be able to stay on top of their work without falling behind. Because I came from a very rigorous private school, my experience might be different than others.
Tips for prospective students Try to stay on top of what documents you need to enroll and research what is required from you on their website. Also, try to schedule appointments with counselors so that you can avoid the long waits. The professors often respond to students very quickly so if you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact your teachers.
In three sentences Berkeley City College is a great school for alternative studying and for students who hope to transfer to 4 year schools. BCC offers a wonderful variety of classes and has very experienced and caring professors. Due to the accepting environment and quality of education, BCC is a top-rate choice when it comes to community college.
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Zachary from Berkeley, CA
02/24/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
21 of 22
Categories Comments Campus Safety Very safe on campus but be careful about locking your bike up anywhere in the area....the bike thieves are very aggressive.
Greek Life none
Clubs and Activities There seems to be a good selection. I have joined a few of them myself.
Great for these types of students Students looking to transfer to UC Berkeley
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Small campus that is easy to navigate. I liked the american indian history class and have never seen it offered anywhere else.
Bang for the buck Great value in comparison to other California Community Colleges but all California colleges are extremely expensive anyway.
What to do for fun hang out with hippies and bummy kids:)
Food and Dining None on campus but plenty of places just outside.
Dorm Life No Dorms
Academic Rigor Fairly mild in difficulty in my experience. This is mostly due to the fact that BCC is on the semester system....keep this in mind if you are considering a quarter system university.
Tips for prospective students Be prepared to take classes at the other campuses in Oakland as BCC does not offer all courses.
In three sentences Conveniently located in downtown Berkeley. High quality professors that are often affiliated with UC Berkeley. Very nice, new facilities.
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FERNANDO from Oakland, CA
05/07/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
22 of 22
Categories Comments What to do for fun Enjoy the East Bay and the Bay Area while attending college in legendary Berkeley!
Tips for prospective students Learn about the different programs to assist students. Get involved with groups and associations, great for your resume and for meeting people.
In three sentences Great starting point to pursue higher education. Good overall value when considering education cost versus quality.
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