An International Student Speaks!

Introduction
I am from England and had initially held UCSC as my second choice school when applying for international transfer. Initially, everything I read about Santa Cruz both the town and the university put me off, but at this point I am so glad I got my second choice school. UCSC is a decent-sized university in that it's small enough that you'll recognise people now and again, but big enough that you can always meet new people. The campus is beautiful and the town of Santa Cruz is so interesting, with plenty to do. Socially/politically, it's a very liberal, creative, artsy town, and the campus reflects this. I would advise staying away from UCSC if you're a Republican or in any way closed-minded, anti-drug, or in search of big-city life.

Campus Life and Social Life
There's enough to do here partying-wise. One of my main concerns before I came here was that it was going to be dead, because of what I had read about it. But Santa Cruz students and locals alike are always up for a party. You will have no trouble finding something to do every night of the week - whether it's a house party, club, bar or live show. I love going to the clubs/bars here...although there aren't that many, they're extremely fun on Student Nights. Advertisement
Academics
In comparison to my lecturers at home in England, the professors here are very passionate about their courses. I have found the Literature and Music Departments to be great. I think David Cope is one of the best professors I've ever had. The Community Studies Department could be better though.

Student Body
I honestly don't think there is a "typical" student at UCSC. The majority of students are from California, and again, tend to be very liberal and open-minded, some to the point of being annoyingly PC. But the emphasis at UCSC is on the individual, on being yourself and everyone loving you for that. Its sounds hippy-dippy, and it is, but if there's one place its ok to be hippy-dippy it's college!

In Closing...
I will just say in closing that UCSC is a lifestyle, not just a school: you need to be open-minded to like this place. But all kinds are welcome and embraced, and you can have hella fun here. I definitely have!