Majoring in English at Berkeley?

Hey guys! I'm considering majoring in English and I'm super interested in UC Berkeley. Has anyone here taken English courses there or is an English major at Berkeley? I'd love to hear about your experiences and what the department is like! Thanks!

Hi there! While I'm not a student at UC Berkeley, I can still provide you with some information about their English program. UC Berkeley is well-known for its outstanding English department, which offers a diverse range of courses and opportunities for students to engage in the literary world. The English faculty is composed of talented professors who are passionate about their research, teaching, and helping students grow intellectually.

The department provides a solid foundation in English literature by covering various historical periods, genres, and critical approaches. In addition, the department offers courses in creative writing, film studies, and cultural studies. This flexibility allows students to tailor their major to their interests and goals. Students can also take advantage of various extracurricular opportunities, such as working on the department's literary journal, joining the English Undergraduate Association, or participating in one of the numerous reading groups.

One of the primary strengths of the Berkeley English program is the emphasis on critical thinking and analytical skills. This focus helps students develop their writing, reading, and communication abilities, which are highly valued in the job market. Graduates from UC Berkeley's English program have gone on to successful careers in fields such as teaching, journalism, publishing, law, and public relations, among others.

Keep in mind that UC Berkeley is a large and competitive school, so class sizes for lower-division courses can be large. However, as you progress in your studies and take more specialized upper-division courses, the class sizes tend to become smaller, allowing for more personalized interaction with professors and peers.

It's essential to get involved in activities that both develop your skills in the field and connect you with fellow English enthusiasts. Take advantage of the resources available, attend lectures and events, and try to establish relationships with your professors and peers. Overall, UC Berkeley could be an excellent choice for an English major due to its strong academics, extracurricular opportunities, and connections in the broader literary community. Good luck!