UC Merced is only two decades into its mission of shaping the next generation of trailblazers. But that’s more than enough time for multiple Bobcats to come from the same family.
Dawit Gemeda’s sister attended the university about eight years ago, so the surroundings felt comfortably familiar when he and his folks joined thousands of others at Bobcat Day, the annual open house for the San Joaquin Valley’s only research university.
Wispy clouds and a cooling breeze greeted attendees April 19 as they chatted with representatives from every corner of the campus community, enjoyed food and music, toured labs and residence halls and sat down for a wide range of presentations.
Gemeda, who lives in Pleasanton, plans to attend UC Merced this fall, majoring in computer science.
“I like how nice everyone is, how accommodating everyone is,” he said. The university has doubled in size since his sister was here, but UC Merced still feels like home, he said.
Here are a few others who came to Bobcat Day and intend to return as students. We asked why they chose UC Merced.
Zeida Castillo. Hometown: Hayward. Declared major: biology: “They have more research opportunities for undergrads. And I like that they’re building a medical education building that I will have access to in the future.”
Mohammed Muzammil Mugibhur, Yuba City, computer science: “UC Merced was one of my top choices. The faculty are more hands-on and can provide a better education for students.”
Savana Garcia, Chino Hills, biology: “I have a cousin who’s a third-year right now and I really like the environment, how it’s not really busy.”
Jabheth Nwani, Sacramento, psychology: “I saw that UC Merced is No. 1 in social mobility, something I thought was very cool. It’s close to home, and the campus is beautiful.”
Hengyi Lu, China, environmental science: Lu is from Guangzhou, a port city north of Hong Kong. Through an interpreter, he said UC Merced has a strong program in his chosen major and he likes that the university is near the Pacific Ocean — a good source for environmental studies.
Karina Cruz, Coalinga, management and business economics: “I just looked at universities close to home and which one had the benefits I want. And this one checked all the boxes.”
Adrian Gonzalez, Los Angeles, business management: Gonzalez has enlisted in the Army and plans to get a deferment and start at UC Merced next spring. “I did my research, and this is a really good university," he said. "I like the programs and the people. And the financial aid is great.”
Faris Natour, Santa Clarita, electrical engineering: “The program has much newer tools and resources. And I know someone who goes here, so that influenced me.”
Jimena Quintana, Merced, management and business economics: “I did a summer program here last year and I really loved the people. I think it’s a wonderful university. I’m excited to be a part of it.”
