November 1, 2024
We asked L&S alums to share their favorite winter memories as UC Berkeley students, and the range of responses was heartwarming. Thank you to everyone who shared a memory! Here are just a few of the memories our alums shared.
Photo: Keegan Houser
Sather Gate in Lights
Many alums wrote in to reflect on the beautiful transformation of Sproul Plaza and Sather Gate -- not to mention Telegraph and Berkeley, in general -- during the winter holidays.
"My favorite memory is Sproul Plaza all full of goodies to sell!"
"Seeing the holiday lights on Sather Gate."
Campus at Dusk
Photo: Keegan Houser
L&S alums shared happy memories exploring the campus at the end of a long day, after once busy spots settled into peaceful spaces.
My favorite winter memory is walking around campus after finishing finals and taking in the tranquility of the night and beauty of the campus.
- Kana M. '19
"Strolling around the campus one winter evening, the campus was hushed under the glow of dusk. That cold breeze danced through, making every step feel like a secret shared."
- Anonymous
"Chilling at the Memorial Glade and watching the night sky at the stairs."
- Anonymous
Valley Life Sciences Building & T-rex
Photo: Steve McConnell/UC Berkeley
The Valley Life Sciences Building (VLSB) was frequently mentioned in alums' favorite winter memories. Some alums recalled meeting with friends from programs such as Biology Scholars Program, and many others said they loved seeing the dinosaur decked out in a red "Santa" hat for the holiday.
"I warmly remember walking back through campus, up Campanile Way after an end of semester dinner with friends. The crisp air and the campanile in front of us, walking by the VLSB is a core memory for me!"
- Julio G. '22
"My favorite winter memory is seeing the Christmas hat on the dinosaur!"
- Anonymous
My favorite winter memory is going into the VLSB library and seeing their rotation desk decorated for all the holidays.
- Anonymous
Moody Winter Weather
Photo: UC Berkeley Public Affairs
L&S alums live all over the world, and the winter weather in Berkeley (sometimes rainy, sometimes foggy, but never snowy) made a strong impression on many.
"Studying indoors with friends and warm beverages, with the sound of rain pattering outside."
I really enjoyed seeing Strawberry Creek full of water from all the rain and just watching everyone rush onto the 51B to avoid getting wet.
- Eduardo M. '23
"Walking in the rain from my apartment to class is my favorite memory."
"A nice foggy day with light rain outside."
- Anonymous
Surviving Finals Week
Photo: Jami Smith/UC Berkeley Library/UC Regents
Both RRR and Finals Week came up often -- alums fondly remember celebrating with friends and making preparations for the winter break.
The feeling of handing in your last final exam and being FREE! The trip home would always feel glorious!
- Melisa G. '05, '06, '13
