University of California—Merced

The University of California-Merced, opened in 2005, may be the most recent addition to the University of California system, but it has quickly positioned itself as a notable center for "cutting-edge research." The university features several research institutes and centers with "state-of-the-art lab and research facilities," and students appreciate the "abundance of opportunities" offered "in whatever field interests you." Over one-third of UC Merced students attend the Health Sciences Institute, which plays an important role in connecting undergraduates to a variety of research initiatives. Additionally, the Sierra Nevada Research Institute provides a unique opportunity to use the surrounding environment as an outdoor laboratory for sustainability studies. UC Merced, in partnership with the National Parks Service, offers the Yosemite Leadership Program to train the next generation of environmental leaders. The curriculum offers "hands-on experience and community engagement" that "goes beyond traditional lectures and allows students to apply what they've learned in a meaningful way." UC Merced's tight-knit and collaborative community fosters "numerous opportunities for mentorship, undergraduate research, and leadership development." Professors here are "very interactive" and "very knowledgeable in their fields." The classes tend to be small, so "students can actually have a relationship with their professors," which can be instrumental in creating future opportunities. As one student explains, "I was able to get into research my first year of college and make great connections with many of my professors." Students appreciate UC Merced's emphasis on experiential learning: integrating academic education with real-world applications. As one student sums up, this approach "made my academic experience feel more connected to current trends in education and realworld applications, which is something I find exciting and valuable."

UC Merced stands out for “how friendly it is.” Fellow classmates are considerate: “the kind of people who would open a door for you even if [you are] several feet away.” It’s a place where the students are “kind, hardworking, and committed,” the “support for one another is strong,” and “everyone is willing to help.” The student body is “very diverse,” and many are first-generation college students. Students say inclusivity is among the school’s greatest strengths and cite programs like Services for Undocumented Students and the Bobcat Underground, a group that supports justice-impacted students. Students who commute say they feel connected to the campus community, and all the campus events give “lots of chances to meet people that you can make friends with.” The school attracts many students who “chose Merced for the peace and focus it allows.” Everyone is “very focused on their work,” as one student puts it, “We’re not a loud crowd.” It’s a “relatively studious,” open-minded, and helpful group of students who want to see their peers succeed. UC Merced fosters a “welcoming and warm environment” where students are “encouraged to think critically and make a difference in the world.”

While the school’s “smaller, more quiet environment” makes it easier to focus on coursework or professional development, it also boasts a vibrant social scene with “many opportunities to find community on campus or give back to the community around the school.” Students here are “deeply involved in shaping the campus culture” and there are “a lot of events, clubs, and activities to keep you busy.” Extracurricular offerings encompass a wide range of options, from intramural sports and Greek life to crochet club and archery, as well as cultural organizations like the Philipinex American Alliance and Ballet Folklorico, “a club dedicated to teaching and performing traditional Mexican dance.” The campus is easy to navigate and its smaller size “makes travel times between classes a lot shorter.” For outdoor recreation, the school has a program that takes students to Yosemite and other nearby places for hiking and rock climbing. Additionally, a lake located just a ten-minute walk away is a popular spot for students looking to swim or kayak. As one student says, “Life at UC Merced is dynamic, with students balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and social experiences.”