Ozzie Jauregui is a transfer student who studied drama and business at Modesto Junior College before transferring to UC Berkeley. “I transferred as an English major, that way I could be involved with the arts and entertainment, to get my foot in the door.”
Jauregui reminisces and talks about how his drama teacher provided great advice that led him to his educational path. “It is about being well rounded, to just keep growing as a person, there is no better place to do that than a university. I can grow as an intellect and a creative person.”
“There are a lot of cool classes!” Jauregui exclaimed, sharing his love for the Harry Potter decal taught at Berkeley. Studying English has given Jauregui numerous insightful readings and valuable lessons. "Studying best-selling books, especially those written in older English, just makes sense," he continued. "Using materials we can relate to, like great plays that get adapted into modern films, shows how words can impact the world across different eras and cultures. It's fascinating to see the translation from old texts to modern texts. For me, it keeps my mind open. If you can think critically, then you are doing well.”
Jauregui recalls his experience with the Bridges Transfer Program which provided a helpful transition period to Berkeley. Before beginning classes in the fall, he had the opportunity to get accustomed to the campus. “I had the opportunity to check out the campus last year in May.” Along with guidance and resources, the program made it possible for students such as Jauregui to meet other incoming transfer students and make some connections.
Some advice he would like to give to students is to “take the chance, believe in yourself, and listen to yourself.” He reflects on his own journey from a small town in the Central Valley to Berkeley, where he encountered people from diverse backgrounds. “Coming from Manteca in the Central Valley, a small town, and then coming to Berkeley, you meet people from all over the state, country, and the world. It opens your mind to new opportunities that you never knew existed.” This experience, he says, broadens one's perspective and reveals opportunities he would have never considered.
Reflecting on when he first transferred, Jauregui describes experiencing something well-known as “imposter syndrome" a term often used by transfer students to describe feelings of inadequacy or not belonging. However, Jauregui encourages students to recognize their own worth and contributions beyond just academic grades. "A lot of people underestimate themselves. It is a big deal, give yourself credit. It is more than just about grades. People have so much to offer, people should put it out there, and show how you are a good fit for the school."
Learn more about transferring to UC Berkeley here(link is external).
Visit the Division of Arts & Humanities Transfer Guide here.