UCLA admissions stories

UCLA admission decisions for incoming freshmen are being released this month, which means that thousands of prospective Bruins will be experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions, just like the many Bruins who came before them. At ASUCLA, we asked current UCLA students to reflect on what it was like to get that magical acceptance letter:

Ella Stapleton, fourth year cognitive science student

I got my admissions decision while flying back from a vacation. My friend told me not to check it before the six hour flight, but I couldn’t resist. When I opened it, I learned I had been waitlisted. I sobbed the entire flight home. Meanwhile, my little sister’s best friend was with us, and she told us that her older sister had just gotten in to UCLA. 

For the next month, I remained on the waitlist. I was an hour away from committing to NYU when I got an email from UCLA Housing asking for a deposit. That’s how I learned that I’d gotten into UCLA, and I committed immediately. And now I’m roommates with my little sister’s best friend’s sister!

Camille Ramos, second year cognitive science student

The college application process was a very daunting experience, but was also a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation. When I opened my acceptance letter with my mom, it was a moment of sheer joy and relief that I was incredibly happy I could share with her. 

The decision to attend UCLA was an easy one because of its unmatched academic opportunities and vibrant community, along with a location very close to the people I love most. I’m so happy I’ve made the decision to continue my education here for the next few years and am so excited to see what’s yet to come!