2023 Decision Advice - UC Berkeley: are there "normal" kids?

This is such a helpful thread! DS is just about ready to commit to UCB for this fall - he’s trying to make his final decision between UCB and Duke, but is definitely leaning toward Cal. He actually just asked me today for a copy of his senior picture so he can join the UCB FB page and start looking for a roommate, so I think he might have some news to share with us when he gets home from school.

DS is also looking for that perfect balance of strong and challenging academics while having a life that includes other things as well - possibly intramural sports, service opportunities or clubs. He’s planning to major in Physics and also hopes to minor in Music/Music Composition, so he plans to be involved in the on-campus choirs. And he wants to bring some of his musical instruments (guitar, keyboard, electric bass, etc.) but I have no idea how feasible that will be in a dorm! At least he should be able to use headphones with the electric ones so he doesn’t bother his roommates.

Once he commits, we will be looking for all the info the helpful people here can offer on dorms, classes, orientation, move-in, etc.! Thank you!