1: Research
The main reason I chose UCSD was for it's research opportunities in science and engineering. I've had a decent amount of experience in a lab, so UCSD was perfect for me to continue doing just that. I know most about 2D materials, but I want to start getting into biomedical programmes as well, since that's what UCSD is best at. I might not get in my first year, but this is, hands down, the most important item on my list. Plus, the average starting salary for research is $20,000, or about a third of my total yearly bill, including tuition, room and board, and other fees. Getting in as a freshman is hard, but I'll take my chances. I need the money.
2: Martial Arts
When it comes to pressing physical and mental limits at once, martial arts are probably the best method to do so. I decided on wushu and taichi. Self defence and mental equilibrium are important when living in a big city and for majoring in one of the toughest areas (engineering).
3: Flow Arts
Martial Arts minus the combat and more dance oriented is basically what flow arts are. I can't dance empty handed, but with a prop of some sort, I can do a little bit, and honing my skills in such a group would help me get to know more people and make me less of a wallflower at parties.
4: A Capella
I've been an instrumentalist for a long time, but a capella has a very special place in my heart. The ability to perform any song with just human voices takes unbelievable skill and technique, something I've been longing to learn. I made callbacks for this year's "Acarush". I'm definitely nervous for making the final groups, but I think I have a solid chance.
5: Tennis
It's the only sport I'm good at and enjoy at the same time. The tennis team at UCSD is going to Division 1, which would mean more competition. I'll definitely have to work harder than ever on the courts.
6: Surfing
It's UCSD culture. UCSD does not stand for UC Socially Dead, rather UC Surfing Doctors. Since I'll be living a 15 minute walk from the beach, I might as well pick it up. Unlike any of the others above, I have no experience or skill in this trade. I try to acquire at least one new skill every year, and for the 2016-17 school year, my best option is surfing.
7: Cultural
My culture is a big part of my identity, and I feel I should join a group highlighting how important it is to me. As a result, I've joined the Multi Asian Student Association, or MASA. I want to stay close to my own culture, learn more about the other Asian cultures, and even pick up some of the other languages.
I might be spreading myself a little thin at this point, but the best part about university life is, I can easily drop what I can't handle. By the end of the quarter, I'll have dropped maybe one or two of the clubs. I'm so excited to get involved.
