Parina Gujral- University of California Berkeley, Class of 2018

Hi Arjun!

How are you? Apologies for responding late. It's RRR week so I've been studying a lot and been quite away from social civilization, as most students are at this moment. 

That's so great to hear! Im glad! I truly feel people are investing more time in the more abstract part of the application, such as essays and extra curricular activities and are looking to go beyond the A's that they receive. It's refreshing to see so many different ventures! 

I have been quite fantastic, but extremely busy this semester. I took a larger course load than what is considered normal, so have dedicated a lot of my time to that. I have also moved towards more technical classes, such as Computer Science which is a little bit of struggle in the beginning, but is surely a very fascinating way of thinking. 

I have settled upon my major, more so but am still a little confused about my direction. I have decided Cognitive Science to be my primary major, but am hoping to do two minors to have more diversity in my skill-set and prospective jobs. My current choices are Computer Science and Linguistics, and will be speaking to advisors to get a better idea to understand whether this is ideal or not. Hence, my classes this semester are regarding Computer Science, Cognitive Science, Mathematics, Econ (which is simply a personal passion) and Rhetoric (again a passion - something I highly recommend for students to invest at least one class in). 

In terms of clubs and organizations, I'm in the Exec Board for a Professional Film Fraternity, and am a part of a Sorority. I am also working as Marketing Director for the Indian Students Association, and am a member of the Cognitive Science Students Association. Additionally, I joined a Car Racing club this semester, where I am learning to work on designing amateur race cars (no skill is needed, simply an interest). Next semester I hope to look at URAP which is the Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program, so I can dip my toes into the world of research. My approach to organizations were to somehow separate them from my major, because I wanted an experience and I think I truly achieved one. I dwelled in things I had never tried before, which has been very rewarding - both socially and intellectually. 

At this moment I am making plans for the coming Summer, as I may need to stay back in Berkeley for a class. I am also looking for internships in User Interface or Consumer Experience. This is a field I am very interested in at the moment, but it is challenging to find something as a Sophomore. 

I will be returning to New Delhi on the 20th Of December and will most definitely be available to meet in person. I'll make sure to send you a message once I return and we can decide on a day. 

Best, 

Parina Gujral

9/12/2015

Parina is studying Cognitive Science, Design Innovation & Entrepreneurship and will graduate in 2018.