Campus Safety: Be Alert, Be Aware
Today we will talk about a rather grim topic: The UCSB shooting incident and the resulting changes and improvements on Campus Safety. On May 23rd, there was a shooting incident near the campus of UCSB. The shooting seemed to be premeditated in advance, with the shooter listing his grievances in advance about his frustrations of “loneliness, rejection and unfulfilled desires”. At least six people were killed and one victim went to the hospital in life-threatening condition. The university has issued out emergency housing for those displaced by the incident. While the incident itself may… Continue Reading
The Journey- How I got to Cal (Part 5)
Cal’s mascot, Oski the Bear, at Cal Day Hello! I hope you’ve all caught up on Glee just as I have and are ready for Part 5. Let’s flash-forward to March when admissions decisions for freshman applicants are given out. (Visit http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/ for general information on dates, deadlines, and more detail on applying to the UC system). I was feeling confident as decision day approached. I had spent thorough time on writing my essays and filling out my application. I had made sure all necessary documents like transcripts and test scores were in order, and… Continue Reading
The Journey- How I got to Cal (Part 4)
“Don’t stop believing! Hold on to that feeling!” Sorry I got sidetracked there kiddies. I was just enjoying my favorite Journey song, especially the version by the cast of Glee. Now, for those of you who watch this marvelous TV show, you know that this week’s episode featured some tough love doled out by former cheerleader Brittany. Brittany, in a moment of sudden self-confidence, tells the ever-ambitious Rachel that she (Rachel) is not a trend-setter because people don’t look to her for fashion advice. Brittany was basically telling Rachel (in a twisted way) to play… Continue Reading
A perfect score
It’s a real honor to be able to start this blog with news that an Excel alum has earned a perfect score on the SAT. Andrew Kau, of Monte Vista High School, took the exam last October and received news of his 1600 score in November. Needless to say, we at Excel are thrilled for Andrew. And Andrew seemed pretty thrilled to receive a $1,000 scholarship check from Excel for his effort. (Yes, current students, earn a 1600 and you’ll earn $1,000, too!) Look for more posts here in the coming weeks about Excel alumni… Continue Reading
The Journey- How I got to Cal (Part 1)
It is always difficult to pick which colleges to apply to because of the numerous factors involved. There are quantitative aspects such as grades and SATs and qualitative aspects such as major programs and location. Just like any other high school student, I was confused when it came time to choose which colleges to apply to. I decided to use the summer between junior and senior year to create a list of colleges that were appropriate for me. Before I get to that summer though, I must give a little background. I was a student… Continue Reading