Hi there! My name is Amelia, and I'm currently a third-year Cognitive Science major specializing in Behavioral Neuroscience at UC San Diego. Choosing UCSD has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. Not only have I made lifelong friends who continue to inspire and motivate me every day, but I've also had the opportunity to learn from incredible professors who are experts in fields I'm deeply passionate about. Outside the classroom, I've been involved in a variety of student organizations, including student government, cultural organizations, and social clubs. Through student government, I gained hands-on experience planning events for Eleanor Roosevelt College (ERC) while creating flyers and digital media to promote campus events. I'm also a member of CASA (Chinese American Student Association), where I've connected with fellow students and participated in cultural celebrations and community events. In addition, I've loved being part of Trailblazers, a social organization focused on hiking, camping, and other health and wellness activities that have allowed me to explore San Diego while meeting amazing people. Each of these experiences has helped me grow, build meaningful friendships, and create memories that I'll always cherish. I'm excited to share why UCSD has become such a special place for me, and I hope I can help you imagine how your own experience here can be just as rewarding.

Hometown

Los Angeles, California

Major(s)

Cognitive Science with a Specialization in Behavioral Neuroscience

Minor(s)

General Biology

Clubs, organizations & involvement

- Student Council of ERC for two years as the Freshman Representative and then the Director of Publicity my Sophomore year - Chinese America Students Association - CASA - Trailblazers (outdoors and wellness club!) --＞ I plan to join a psychology or cognitive science club this upcoming fall!

Describe your college experience

I have loved UCSD. It has exceeded my expectations of what I thought college would be like for me. Since being in SD for three years nearly, I have joined multiple student orgs and clubs which have allowed me to meet so many of my friends and classmates who are all such friendly faces! I love the campus and the beautiful surrounding environment of La Jolla. The beach is so close to school, and because I had my car my second year I was able to explore more of San Diego with my friends which made me fall more in love with the city. UCSD has given me also a great education, and since switching my major from Human Biology to Cognitive Science, I have been deeply enjoying my classes and the professors teaching them!

Tip for future students

Be gentle to yourself, everyone is in the same boat as you. College is a time to explore yourself and who you are and who you want to become. At the end of the day, don't let the UC Socially Dead motto get to your head. College is what you make of it! Don't be afraid to say yes. You never know where that yes can lead you, and if it doesn't work out now you know and you can move on. Open yourself up to experiences. Sit next to people in class and say hi, you never know where that conversation can lead, maybe just a friendly face in class, maybe a new study partner, or maybe even a lifelong friend. Remember that college can be challenging and difficult, but there are resources there to help you. Talk to your professors (PLEASEEE!!). Ask for help because the quicker you learn to do so, the easier life gets. Join clubs and explore the city. While college is definitely about school and getting a good education, it also important to take moments to appreciate the change around you and the experiences that exist beyond the campus grounds!

Favorite class

My two favorite classes at UCSD so far were PSYC 153 and PSYC 108! I got to learn about the psychology of emotions in PSYC 153, which covered everything from why certain emotions evolved to how we express these emotions viscerally and physically. The class taught me so much about myself and others, and it continues to be a subject I enjoy learning about. The other class I thoroughly enjoyed was Cognitive Neuroscience (PSYC 108), which was everything about the brain and how various parts dictate how we live, think, and behave. I took both of these classes during the same quarter and because of my professors and the material in the course, I remain deeply fascinated in social behavior and the integral importance of our brains for who we are!

Career goals

While my career goals are not fully solidified, I hope to do something in the healthcare field, possibly business forward too! I want to collaborate with others and make something or be a part of something that helps people and brightens our world.

Ideal way to spend a free night

I love doing self-care! My typical nights tend to include journaling, either baking or cooking something, watching a movie, or reading a book! Also I love hanging out with my friends and doing fun activities together, whether it is going to Glidersport to see the sunset or baking banana bread and watching a movie together :)

High school or secondary school

Immaculate Heart High School

Favorite spot on campus

I am not great a choosing favorites, but so many places on campus hold a special place in my heart. When I first toured UCSD, I remember loving the hammocks right by price center and library walk where you could see the beautiful view of Geisel. The hammocks where the water feature is remains a comforting spot as it reminds me of my commitment to UCSD in the fall of 2024 right after I had bought my own UCSD crewneck from the bookstore. On campus I love going to the gym and just walking around at night since it is such a beautiful place. Since the new addition of the Marshall Lawn, I have come to really enjoy it there since my friends and I can go picnic on the grass or play games or study! The lawn has helped make the campus feel more connected and college-like!