Anna Popa
Major(s): Pharmaceutical Sciences
Hometown: Riverside, CA
Extracurriculars
* Frequent member at the ARC
* Chem 1X Learning Assistant (2022-2024)
* UCI basketball enthusiast
Why do you love UCI?
I love UCI not just because of the academic opportunities but also the recreational activities it has to offer. UCI is one of the few universities that offer a pharmacy focused undergraduate major for its students and I am fortunate to have been accepted into this prestigious major. Although I am eternally grateful for this opportunity, the stress and workload of the classes take their toll but that’s where the recreational activities come in. Having the option to put up my hammock and study in Aldrich Park between classes, going to a clean gym to work out the stress, or going to basketball games with friends to decompress has been a life saver and something I truly love about this school.
How can you be a successful Anteater?
Everyone succeeds by using different methods but what has worked for me so far are these: finding my learning style, aiming to have the same classes with trustworthy friends who will keep me on track with homework and studying, booking study rooms, and going to discussions. During my time here, I found that I am a kinesthetic learner (I learn best by doing practice problems) and I recommend you find your learning style to maximize your study time (don’t reread the textbook if you’re not a visual learner but do rewatch lecture videos if you’re an auditory learner). Having a close group of friends that are just as dedicated to learning as you is great to have because you will take turns teaching and learning the material from each other (especially in those study rooms a few days before the exam). Discussions are great for exposure to the topics and practice but I find that TAs often explain concepts better than some Professors and they are more approachable.
What is one fun fact about yourself?
I am a first generation American born and raised in Southern California. Before coming to UCI, I was an IB and AP student (I received my IB diploma and took 8 AP class/exams) and I am happy to discuss the pros and cons of both when it comes to college or explain where your exams might apply. I’m trilingual (Romanian, English, and Spanish) but I am currently trying to learn Italian and ASL.
