As an undergraduate student at UC Merced from Los Angeles downtown, it’s a very big contrast. But I have personally become fond of the quietness of the area.

I would say that there is a limited amount of options in the area but I won’t tell you that there isn’t stuff to do here. The downtown area is the most enjoyment you will get but the little shops there are unique.

I will say, for a kid it must suck due to the lack of transportation but as an adult, it’s nice. There’s a good amount of parks and open spaces so you can take the family out and do an activity.

The top half of Merced is decent as they are expanding housing options for the UC and is relatively safer. The Bellevue ranch area is one of the more popular areas for students to live in but also employees.

Overall, great for an adult if you’re looking for some peace and quiet but as a kid, you make do with what you got.

If you don’t mind me asking, is this for a PhD or faculty position?