Small Town, Big Impact: Lessons from UC Davis

Before completing the UC Davis Global Study Program, Shrinikesh Balasubramanian spent most of his life in urban environments. Originally from Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India, Shrini enjoyed his experience as a computer science and engineering student at the SRM Institute of Science and Technology—but he craved a quieter, more peaceful experience. 

“Davis felt like the perfect place for that,” he said. 

Drawn to the small-town feel and open campus at UC Davis—and encouraged by a recommendation from a friend who had just returned from studying there—Shrini embraced the opportunity to study abroad and explore a different pace of life. He was curious to see how a quiet, grounded environment might reshape his perspective. 

Shrini made the most of his time in Davis. He joined soccer tournaments on the Quad, connected with people from around the world and built strong relationships with professors. By the time he returned home, his outlook had shifted. 

“I no longer feel tied to the idea that success or good opportunities only exist in big cities,” he said. “Davis has the magic to teach you things in life that no other place can.” 

What was your first impression of UC Davis, and what do you miss most about it now? 

The campus was buzzing with students, and the entire place became lively and energetic once fall quarter started. What I miss the most is playing recreational soccer. I made many friends on the pitch, and I miss all of them a lot. 

How were your UC Davis classes different from what you were used to back home? 

The classes at UC Davis are very different from those at SRM. There was no requirement to attend lectures in person, and the teaching style was far more engaging. We had regular homework and activities that reinforced the concepts taught in class. Was there a class or professor who made a lasting impact? Yes, the machine learning course with Professor Xiwei Xuan. I loved going to her class—she made complex topics feel simple. She also helped me with my questions and even wrote a letter of recommendation. 

What lessons or insights stayed with you after your time in Davis? 

I always believed that living in a big city was the ideal lifestyle. Davis proved me wrong. I now truly appreciate—and even prefer—the calmness of the countryside. I also assumed that the best universities were located in major cities because of better facilities, but Davis changed that perception. I learned that it doesn’t matter where you are or where you come from. What truly matters is what you’re capable of doing. 

How have you applied those lessons since returning home? 

Since returning home, I’ve embraced a more balanced and grounded lifestyle. I no longer feel tied to the idea that success only happens in big cities. Instead, I focus on improving my skills, learning continuously and making the most of the resources around to me—wherever I am. I’ve also started appreciating quieter environments and spending more time in peaceful spaces. This has helped me stay focused, productive and mentally refreshed. 

What have you been doing since completing the Global Study Program? 

Since returning from Davis, I have been working on two projects. 

• One focused on detecting stress levels using the WESAD dataset.
• Another on predicting energy consumption and production by country through 2050 using ARIMA 

Both projects were inspired by the professors I met at UC Davis. 

What advice would you give other international students considering UC Davis? 

Come with an open mindset. It is a beautiful place with loving people. Embrace your experiences here—Davis has the magic to teach you things in life no other place can.