UCLA
Marcus
HiSET → De Anza CC → UCLA
Used HiSET to leave high school early and transferred to UCLA's psychology program through TAP.
Background
Homeschooled through middle school, I entered public high school feeling disconnected from the curriculum and pace.
The Decision
Took the HiSET at 17, enrolled at De Anza College, and joined the Honors Transfer Program.
Challenges
Building a social network at community college, meeting UCLA's competitive GPA expectations, and completing major prep on a tight timeline.
Successes
Accepted to UCLA via Transfer Alliance Program with a 3.85 GPA and strong personal insight essays.
Advice
“Join your community college honors program if available. The structured support and smaller classes make a huge difference.”
— Marcus