A new class of undergraduate students—ranging in age from 18 to 58—arrived at Haas Monday for orientation, where they were immersed in school culture, absorbed career advice, and met their new cohorts.
Erika Walker, assistant dean of the undergraduate program, Dean Rich Lyons (below), Professor Todd Fitch, and staff welcomed the incoming class. “We’re really bringing the students into our community today, having a bit of fun, introducing them to their vast network and resources, and beginning their lifelong connection with Berkeley-Haas,” Walker said.
An introduction to the undergraduate cohort leaders and the president of the Haas Business School Association followed. After a Top Dog lunch and student organization poster sessions, the students were greeted by Haas alumni and introduced to the UC Berkeley Career Center, learning the “do’s and don’ts of the job search.”
The incoming class includes 297 continuing UC Berkeley students and 88 students—selected from 1,831 applicants—who are transferring into the program from other local colleges.
The continuing UC Berkeley students were selected from 689 applicants, making the program among the most competitive on campus. The continuing Berkeley students have an average GPA of 3.7, while the transfer students earned an average 3.87 GPA at their previous schools. In addition to their stellar academic records, the students were selected for a good fit with Haas culture.
The class is comprised of 51 percent women among UC Berkeley students and 40 percent among transfer students. Minorities represent 68 percent of the class. Read the full class profile here.
The day ended with a backpack distribution to all new students, who started classes yesterday, and an alumni networking ice cream social.
