7/31    How long does it take to prepare for the CS subject GRE? Is it
        something to study for, or is it like the regular GRE (which is
        just like the SAT's, maybe a litlte harder?)
        \_ No problem dude, I just figured I'd study while fucked up on my
           favorite halucinogenic and then take the same amount of the same
           thing about 45 minutes before the test starts and it'd be cool.
           I did fine.  I'm still waiting for my results though but I feel
           really good about it.
        \_ you can't really prepare for it. My score didn't change a bit
           after I studied for it. Your best bet is to take it when your
           mind is still young and fresh (don't take it when you've worked
           in the industry and/or you've become bitter about work).
                \_ what if you havne't taken the class for one of the
                   core subjects that are tested (specifically digital
                   design)? just read up on it or something?
                        \_ then take the class. You can't expect to study
                           150/170/172/174 in a few weeks and expect to know
                           everything. Breadth is very important on the GRE.
                           This is one reason why the Furds do better
                           than us (quarter system = technical breadth)
                           \_ No, they have better instructors who give a shit
                              if you learn something useful as opposed to their
                              cool new thing that might be useful in 10 years
                              if it catches on.
                              \_ No, it's because their students think for
                                 themselves.
                                 \_ That helps, too.  Pot stickers, anyone?
                                \_ no, Berkeley emphasizes on technical skills
                                   more than the Furds. That's why Cal
                                   graduates are more desired in Silicon
                                   Valley-- they're good at emacs/gdb/gcc/link
                                   scripting/unix/etc/etc. The Furds can't do
                                   jack at work. On the other hand the Furds
                                   take more variety of classes that help them
                                   do well on Standardized Tests. I know, I've
                                   been to both sides.
                \_ Dude you can totally study for it!  If your scores didn't
                   improve you used the wrong drugs!  Don't change drugs during
                   your study time!