UCLA gets high marks
BY JUDY LIN
UCLA Today
As members of this year’s graduating class from the College of Letters and Science went online to obtain commencement tickets for invitees, they found on the Web site an invitation of their own. They were asked to complete a survey rating their experience of academics and campus life at UCLA.
If the 2006 results hold up to last year’s responses posted by seniors who completed the first of what will be a series of annual surveys, UCLA is excelling in delivering a high-quality, satisfying experience.
The senior student surveys are intended to give the College, Student Affairs and the Alumni Association rich data on the impact of UCLA on the lives of its graduates. The results will also help guide the Academic Senate in its review of academic departments done every eight years.
Last year, some 5,800 seniors — 80% of the 2005 College graduating class — responded. Overall, they gave the university high marks on everything from academics and faculty to campus life.
An overwhelming majority, 93%, said they were satisfied or very satisfied with their overall UCLA experience, while 91% said they felt that way about their academic experience.
“What impressed me the most were student responses to the question about being intellectually challenged by faculty and the courses they took,” said Judith Smith, vice provost for undergraduate education at the College. “To me, it was one of the most important things to know, especially when you have some of the best and brightest students in California and the nation.”
Last year’s seniors also reported high levels of satisfaction with their campus life experiences and the way people of different races and ethnicities, political and religious beliefs, and sexual orientation are respected. Students’ embrace of diversity also showed up in the high percentage of seniors who said they occasionally, often or very often have in-depth conversations with students from diverse backgrounds.
“Students have opportunities to learn how to challenge themselves academically and personally, and to engage in society with different kinds of people with different experiences,” said Janina Montero, vice chancellor of student affairs.
Respondents were also asked to describe their most meaningful learning experience at UCLA. Wrote one senior: “Simply attending classes fully prepared and with an open mind was the greatest experience I have had at UCLA. I feel I have grown in an incredible way, and that I am much more equipped to take on whatever opportunities come my way.”
To see 2005 survey results, visit www.college.ucla.edu/senior05. The 2006 results will be posted in November or December.
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