Hi, I’m Qandeel, a current Bioengineering student at UCLA and an international student who now knows the campus much better than I did on my first day. I would love to show you around, share my favorite spots, and give you an honest look at what life as a UCLA student is really like. We can talk about classes, housing, dining, clubs, campus traditions, study spots, and anything else you are curious about. I keep my tours relaxed, friendly, and based on what you want to see, so feel free to bring lots of questions.

Hometown

Lahore​/​Pakistan (International Student)

Major(s)

Bioengineering

Describe your college experience

Moving from Pakistan to UCLA was exciting, but it was also a big adjustment. I had to get used to a new country, a large campus, the quarter system, and a much faster academic pace. Over time, I became more comfortable by joining campus programs, working student jobs, doing research, and meeting people from many different backgrounds. My experience has taught me to be more independent, open minded, and willing to ask for help. UCLA can feel overwhelming at first, but it has also given me many opportunities to grow both academically and personally.

Tip for future students

Walk to your classrooms before the first day because ten minutes can feel very short on a large and hilly campus. Use office hours early instead of waiting until you are struggling, and try not to overload your first quarter while you are still adjusting. I would also recommend joining at least one activity outside your classes. Working on campus and participating in research helped UCLA feel much smaller and more personal to me. Make time to explore different libraries, dining halls, events, and study spaces because finding places where you feel comfortable can improve your whole experience.

Favorite class

My favorite class was a GE course that I took with two of my friends. I enjoyed it because the workload was manageable and the class did not feel very stressful. Having friends in the class made it more fun, and I also met new people and made new friends. Overall, it was a relaxed and enjoyable class that gave me a nice balance from my more demanding major courses.

Career goals

After college, I hope to work in biotechnology or medical device development, especially on products that can make healthcare more accurate, affordable, and accessible. I would like to begin on role where I can help design, test, and improve healthcare technology. In the future, I may also pursue graduate school or build a company focused on solving practical healthcare problems.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My favorite way to spend a free night is with friends. I enjoy going out for dinner, exploring Westwood, watching a movie, or simply sitting together and talking. After a busy week, spending time with friends helps me relax, recharge, and enjoy college life outside of classes.

High school or secondary school

Did Cambridge A levels from my hometown