I'm curious about the size of UCLA's undergraduate population. How does having such a large student body affect the student experience? I'm wondering if it feels overwhelming or if there's still a chance for personal attention from professors.
UCLA has around 31,500 undergraduate students. Although this is quite a large number, it doesn't necessarily mean that the college experience is overwhelming or impersonal. There are plenty of opportunities for small classes and personal interactions with faculty, especially as you progress in your major.
Classes in your first year or two, particularly in popular or prerequisite subjects, may be larger, even in lecture halls with hundreds of students. But as you streamline your academic focus, you'll find your classes getting smaller and more discussion-based.
Universities like UCLA often offset large lecture classes with discussion or lab sections, led by graduate students or professors, where you'll work closely with a smaller group of students.
To get personal attention from professors, it's generally recommended to take initiative. Visit office hours, ask questions, engage in class discussions, and show genuine interest in the subject matter. This way, even at a large university, you can forge strong relationships with your professors.
On the social side, UCLA's large student population means an abundance of clubs, intramural sports, activities, and events. In this wealth of options, you can find your niche and meet people who share your interests, making a large university feel much smaller and more personal.
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