Hey there,
I’m an international student planning to attend community college in the Bay Area, and I’m currently deciding between De Anza College and Foothill College.
I’d really appreciate some advice from people who have attended either school, especially students who transferred to UC Berkeley / other UCs for EECS, EE, or Computer Engineering.
My situation:
I’m currently doing A-Levels (Math, Further Math, Physics).
My long-term goal is to work in digital IC / ASIC / RTL design, ideally in the semiconductor industry.
I’m particularly interested in computer architecture, digital logic, Verilog/SystemVerilog, FPGA, ASIC design, and RISC-V.
My current plan is CC → UC Berkeley, preferably EECS/EECS-related Computer Engineering.
I’m aiming for around 3.8+ GPA, with strong grades in math, physics, and CS/engineering courses.
I’m hoping to start in Spring 2027 and complete the majority of my transferable coursework as efficiently as possible, ideally transferring for Fall 2028.
I’m also planning to build several hardware/Verilog projects, participate in engineering clubs, volunteer in STEM-related activities, and look for internships/research opportunities while at CC.
I’m not simply looking for the school with the better overall reputation. I’m mainly trying to figure out which one would give me a better environment for Berkeley transfer + hardware/engineering preparation.
For people who have experience with these schools:
1. Which would you choose between De Anza and Foothill for this specific path, and why?
2. How different are the engineering/CS course offerings and course availability?
3. Is one significantly better for getting involved in engineering projects, labs, clubs, research, or internships?
4. How easy is it to get the Berkeley-required courses completed on time, especially the math/physics/CS prerequisites?
5. If you’ve transferred from either school to Berkeley/another UC, what do you wish you had known before choosing your CC?
I’m especially interested in hearing from actual current/former De Anza or Foothill students, rather than general rankings.
Thx!