Hey man, I had a rough time my first year at Berkeley too. I was placed in a rooming situation with people very unlike me who were heavy into drugs. On top of this, I was in an athlete’s dorm at Clark Kerr and a spring admit, which made meeting new people and making friends very difficult. I ended up taking a leave of absence following a first year of academic underperformance.

Everyone’s path is different. Personally, I wouldn’t judge you for your journey. Experiencing that makes you a stronger, more resilient person than someone who sails through in my opinion. I can’t speak for everyone, however. I do remember there being a judgmental vibe at Cal as there can be a super type-A (and unhealthy) energy. My advice would be to be you, and let those who accept you in. Forget about the people who judge you. The school is so big that you’re bound to find someone you connect with.

If I could go back in time, I would definitely just try to talk to and get to know as many people as possible. Everyone goes through life circumstances. Don’t be ashamed of what you went through.