What's the student population like at UC Riverside?

I'm considering applying to UC Riverside but I'm curious about the student population there. Is it a large or small school, and how might the student body size impact the experience there? Any current students have insights?

UC Riverside is a medium-sized public university. According to the most recent data from the UCR Office of Institutional Research, the university enrolls over 25,600 students, nearly 22,700 of which are undergraduates.

One aspect of attending a medium to large university like UC Riverside is the wide array of opportunities available, both academically and extracurricularly. The larger student population allows the university to offer a wider selection of majors and courses than a smaller college, meaning you have greater opportunity to explore subjects that pique your interest. Similarly, UCR boasts hundreds of clubs and organizations, so it's easy to find a group that aligns with your hobbies, interests, or causes you're passionate about.

On the flip side, attending a school with a larger population can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially to students coming from smaller high schools. Large student populations often mean larger class sizes, particularly for lower-division classes. You might find that some of your lecture classes have hundreds of students. However, most universities (including UCR) work hard to ensure that students still receive personalized attention, typically through smaller discussion sessions, office hours, and ample academic support resources.

The diversity at UC Riverside is also worth noting. UCR is recognized as one of the most ethnically and economically diverse universities in the U.S. This diversity offers students the opportunity to learn about and interact with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, broadening their worldview and enriching their college experience.

While UCR has a large student body, it's important to remember that everyone's university experience is unique. Some may prefer large classrooms and an extensive network of peers, while others may find their niche in smaller clubs or study groups. It really comes down to what you're looking for in a college experience.