Communications Major at UCSB: What's it like?

Hey guys, I'm really interested in pursuing a communications major at UCSB. Can anyone shed some light on the program? How's the curriculum? What about internship opportunities and the overall atmosphere? P.S. Any tips for the admissions would be really appreciated!

Answer: Great choice! The Communication major at UCSB is quite sought-after due to its comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach. The curriculum covers a wide array of topics including interpersonal communication, organizational communication, and media communication. These topics are explored through various lenses such as culture, technology, health, and law. The coursework is a blend of both theory and research, offering students a deeper understanding.

Professors in the program are leaders in their field and are more than willing to engage with students outside of class. They also lead research groups and labs that you might be interested in joining. You'll find extensive resources available for undergraduate research and various opportunities to engage with the faculty.

As for internship opportunities, UCSB's strong network and location near media hubs like Los Angeles provide an advantage. Many students secure internships in PR firms, advertising agencies, news stations, and tech companies. You'd also have access to the internship database maintained by the Career Services Center, and career fairs on campus draw a number of potential employers.

Regarding the overall atmosphere, UCSB has a reputation for being a friendly and laid-back place. There's a strong sense of community and students seem to really enjoy their time there. The location by the beach also contributes to the relaxed vibe and encourages outdoor activities.

For admission tips, UCSB values students who can demonstrate a track record of academic achievement, a strong interest in their intended major, and engagement with extracurricular activities or the community. In your application, make sure to highlight any experiences or achievements relevant to your interest in communication - perhaps you were in the debate team, or worked for your school newspaper, or even led a social media campaign for a local business. If you can link these to your interest in communication studies at UCSB and how it fits into your future plans, it'll help your application stand out. Also, aim for your Personal Insight Questions to portray you as a well-rounded individual with a genuine interest in your major and a willingness to contribute to the student community.

Remember, though, each application is reviewed by its own merits, so what works for one person might not necessarily work for another. Best of luck with your application!