Choosing Columbia Over Berkeley: A Personal Perspective
Choosing a university is an incredibly personal decision, and it's about finding the perfect fit for you. As a former Columbia and UC Berkeley graduate, I can provide a unique perspective on the reasons why one might choose Columbia over Berkeley.
Personal Experience
My older daughter attended Columbia, while my younger daughter studied at Berkeley. In my experience, the best college choice is one that aligns with the individual's aspirations, interests, and lifestyle. My older daughter was fortunate enough to be admitted to both institutions and had the opportunity to visit both in April. After the visit, it became clear that Columbia was the better fit for her.
Factors Influencing the Decision
Atmosphere and Community
During the admit students day at UC Berkeley, my daughter met girls who were extremely thin and made her feel anxious about her own body. One student went so far as to call her 'a stupid fat pig' and suggested that she wouldn't be allowed on a golf cart because it would collapse under her 'massive weight.' Another student discouraged her from attending Berkeley, citing the lack of a women's sumo wrestling team.
In stark contrast, my daughter felt warmly welcomed and at home at Columbia. There were numerous girls there who resembled her in appearance. Later, we learned that Columbia actively seeks out plus-size students whose parents attended the university, aiming to create a more diverse and inclusive community. My daughter even ran into a few Columbia classmates from a previous summer camp for plus-size individuals.
Prestige vs. Fit
My ex-wife and I, both Columbia graduates, took great efforts to convince her that Columbia holds more prestige than Berkeley. We were overjoyed when our daughter ultimately chose Columbia over Berkeley. My daughter has since graduated from Columbia and completed a master's program at the Columbia Business School.
On the other hand, my younger daughter is a successful, thin writer in Hollywood. She was also admitted to both universities but felt that being surrounded by plus-size students at Columbia would make her feel uncomfortable. She preferred Berkeley, a place where she could focus on her interests and passions without feeling self-conscious about her body.
Conclusion
In making your college choice, it's crucial to consider both the prestigious nature of the university and whether it provides an environment that feels welcoming and supportive. If you are a plus-size student or have an interest in plus-size individuals, Columbia may be a more inclusive place for you. If you enjoy an active lifestyle and maintaining a healthy diet, Berkeley might be the better fit.
Ultimately, the choice between Columbia and Berkeley, or any other universities, should be based on what best matches your unique needs, interests, and personal growth goals.