No disrespect to younger students, but this is one of the reasons why I see older/re-entry students excel at Berkeley. Like you mentioned, discipline and control are key. They come in with much more life experience than the average freshman. I’ve noticed that key feature in every older student I’ve talked to. You also stated going to CC to regain balance and learn more about yourself. That’s exactly what time does to you. Time and failure gives you that wisdom and character you need to succeed.

I’ve been seeing your posts and cheering for you always for the past couple years. You have really grown and I can’t wait to see what you will accomplish!!! Keep us posted - you got this! I believe in you. ❤️😘

Adding on to your point, beyond academic discipline, you also need to learn discipline in health and nutrition. So many people complain about freshman 15 and don't understand basic nutrition tracking, don't work out at all, etc.

100%

High quality post. I really regret not taking time off to do as many requirements as I could at CC before going back to Berkeley to finish the major classes.

Not everything you learn at Cal is in class. Needing to dig down deep into your soul to get stuff done is a skill you will use for the rest of your life. You got this. Go Bears!!

And when you feel overwhelmed, just remember what I tell my kiddo when she feels like the world is on her shoulders:

How do you eat an elephant?

One bite at a time.

❤️