I would argue that you both are making the reason overly complex.
The reason for hitting the streets is simple in the extreme.
They want to make a difference..... pure and simple
I don’t believe they know what they want. They just want change something. Some feel the need to protest without even knowing why. I guess it gives them a sense of self worth.
Most those at Cal-Berkeley are from at least somewhat affluent families. They’ve been in an insulated and safe environment all their lives. They’re not real worlders but yet think they know it all.
Berkeley has a history of radicals. Here’s an example:
http://freebeacon.com/politics/the-hillary-letters/
Making a difference?
They don’t give a crap about making any difference, except maybe to destroy someone’s property or screw up someone’s day or even life.
What they are doing is all about revelling in self-importance and self-congratulation: “Oh look how much we care we are marching and breaking and ruining things in front of the tv cameras! Now let’s go back to the dorm and screw.”