Hey! I'm Sarasi, a junior @ UCLA studying Data Science. Over the past three years, I've fallen in love with my campus and LA, and now I never want to leave!!! I can't wait to share all the highlights of my campus, and don't worry, I won't hold back in sharing all the niche spots that not a lot of people know about :)

Hometown

Aldie, Virginia

Major(s)

Data Science

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Product Space, 180 Degrees Consulting, DataRes, Backpacking Club, Excursion Club

Describe your college experience

I across the country for college, leaving my family and my precious dog, Lola, 3000 miles behind. I knew no one, and I can't lie, I was nervous. But I was also so excited. It was the first time in 18 years that I could start fresh, and be a whole new person. I could even change my name if I wanted to, no one would know (maybe in another life I'll try this out). And I'm here to report 3 years later that there was no better place to start anew than at UCLA. Of course, the first couple of months were a little rocky - I don't think I'd be human if it wasn't. But the best thing about UCLA is its diversity. There's so many people here. And they all have the biggest dreams. I'm lucky to have met my best friends here. Of course, being in LA, there's always something to do. I've traveled everywhere (even to Hawaii!), and can't imagine a world without hikes and matcha anymore. Truly, I'm so excited to share the best parts with as many people as possible!

Tip for future students

- join both fun & professional clubs! (joining the backpacking club was the best decision i made) - take advantage of ALL the student perks (discounts, free workout classes, free subscriptions, everyone wants to help students ◡̈) - explore!! go on side quests!! say yes!! find your best niche spots & make college feel like home - make a ton of friends. i know this is easier said than done, but go to all the events your college hosts, you never know who you're going to meet.

Favorite class

Comm 10! It was a public speaking class, where we had 3 speeches, and the rest of our classes were fun riddles. Such a fun class ◡̈

Career goals

I hope to live in the Big Apple and work in tech!

Ideal way to spend a free night

UCLA sports games (i love our gymnastics meets), rec center, a walk to Sawtelle ​/​ Century City, movie night, or just a midnight walk around campus

High school or secondary school

John Champe High School

Previous college

Favorite spot on campus

The botanical gardens. I love resetting and walking around the pond and beautiful plants between classes or after a long day