As we celebrate Berkeley’s sesquicentennial, two student leaders — Sophie Beirne ’18 (left), chair of the UC Rally Committee, and Siena Guerrazzi ’18, president of Cal Student Philanthropy — share their thoughts on this turning point.
Sophie Beirne ’18 and Siena Guerrazzi ’18. Photo: Brittany Hosea-Small
Fiat Lux. Let there be light. Not just UC Berkeley’s motto, these words symbolize our university’s purpose. In 1868, the founders said that we would become the light toward which the world turned. One hundred fifty years later, we continue to make them proud because we are the keepers of tradition, the innovators across specialties. Proud because we strive to do better, and to be better. Proud because we help foster the spirit and drive to make a difference.
But with 150 years of light comes 150 years of shadows. Today’s students are constantly pushed to their limits. In a culture of “survive, not thrive,” some have to decide between a textbook or a meal. We admit more students but don’t have enough housing. Many sacrifice sleep and mental health to study and food to finance their education.
Yet with these struggles, we receive an unparalleled education, form incredible bonds, engage through innovative events, experience research firsthand, and discover our passions. To continue building Berkeley, we must acknowledge the light and the shadows, and we must be the changemakers. Berkeley has inspired us and given us the tools to inspire others.
“When we look to the future, we hope to see a Berkeley that continues to serve as a beacon for the rest of the world, while making necessary changes to improve the lives of our students and community.”
As we approach our final weeks at Cal, we can confidently say that some of the best moments of our lives have happened here, that our faculty have pushed us to be better than we ever could have imagined, and that we’ve done work that makes us proud. Most importantly, we met people who have forever influenced our lives.
UC Berkeley brought us together, and our journey has formed a lasting friendship. From road trips, to surviving all-nighters because we brought each other coffee, to flyering on Sproul Plaza in the pouring rain, we’ve created incredible memories. But we’ve also had a lasting impact. From research opportunities to professional internships, we’ve gone out and utilized our education. We also had the honor of creating the Fiat Lux Torch — a 10-foot-tall embodiment of tradition and innovation that is lit alongside the annual Big Game bonfire. This legacy and these relationships have defined our time at Cal.
When we look to the future, we hope to see a Berkeley that continues to serve as a beacon for the rest of the world, while making necessary changes to improve the lives of our students and community. A Berkeley that proves to all students that they will make the world a better place. We are both proud to call ourselves Golden Bears, and call on all Golden Bears to shine their light and fix the shadows. Let us always be that beacon.
And let’s hope we get the axe back!
