Zoology at UCSB - Experiences?

Hey, I'm a high school junior looking into Zoology programs. UCSB is on my list and I wanted to know how is the Zoology program over there? What are the opportunities for research or hands-on experience with animals? Any advice / insights would be very welcome!

The Zoology program at UC Santa Barbara is part of the larger Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology (EEMB). From what I understand, the EEMB department is well-regarded and offers rich learning opportunities for its students.

In terms of opportunities for research, the University offers various ways to get involved. One primary method is the Undergraduate Research program, through which you can work directly with a faculty member in the EEMB department on a research project. There’s also an annual Undergraduate Research Colloquium where you can present your research findings to peers and faculty.

UCSB’s location offers unique opportunities for field experiences and research, given its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and abundance of local ecosystems. The marine biology emphasis might be of interest if you enjoy studying aquatic animals. The department also boasts several greenhouses, marine and terrestrial labs, all of which can offer hands-on experience with animals.

Further, if you're interested in internships or work-study positions, you can explore offerings at the UCSB Research Experience & Applied Learning (REAL) Portal.

One additional note: UCSB is a test-blind school, meaning they won't consider your SAT or ACT scores at all in their admissions process. So, focus on your high school GPA, course rigor, and extracurricular activities related to your interest in Zoology while applying.

Remember, it's great to get a sense of what's on paper about a program, but you might also want to try connecting with current students or recent graduates from UCSB’s Zoology program for a first-hand perspective on their experiences. This can give you an even deeper insight into what you can expect.