Hi! My name is Asia Calhoun. I’m from the Bay Area, I live on campus at CAL, and I was a GBO leader for the freshman class 2025! Additionally, I worked at MLK elementary school and the Oakland Museum of California which also included teaching, touring​/​guiding, and are both filled to the brim with kids. My major is Environment Earth science, recently declared in College of Letters and Science. I believe building strong connections within your college​/​community is the best way to feel comfortable and confident in your college career.

Hometown

Oakland, CA

Major(s)

Environmental Earth Science

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Collegecorps 26, CalCREATE, CALPORG, Golden Bear Orientation Leader, Football Games, BSU events, Themed Program Housing​/​Scholarship

Describe your college experience

My college transition was a little shocking because even though I came from 20 minutes away, all of my primary schools were very personal with an average population of 300 students- tiny compared to most colleges. At Cal, the courses are more rigorous and I felt behind in certain subjects due to lack of opportunities in high school. My solution is to explore my recourses including: tutors, office hours, peers, etc., for additional support. Housing is a little more finicky due to the diversity of roommates and storage.

Tip for future students

I wish I knew to make friends with someone that I felt comfortable as a Dorm-mate. I also wish I knew that math and science classes are more convenient with an iPad or touch screen. Additionally, most people find online pdfs of class textbooks or rent them out from the school libraries when they’re too expensive. There are tons of hidden resources because lots of school websites aren’t updated, sow word of mouth are more convenient than googling, BUT a majority of information you need to ask advisors can be googled.

Favorite class

It’s hard to pick just one favorite class, but my example of an ideal class is an extracurricular or a decal because they’re low risk, small classs, and extra supported. The student-professor relationship was strong and respectful, my classmates were very considerate, and the learning environment was rich with ideas building on each other.

Career goals

After college I plan on working in environmental field research, specifically involving plate tectonics, oceans, and​/​or volcanoes.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal free night is a good friend, dinner, nice scenery​/​walk, and YouTube. Realistically, a free night is catch-up day with less coffee.

High school or secondary school

McClymonds High, Oakland, CA