halcyon heron
Basically I have already committed and paid the deposit at UCI, and I've spent the last few weeks going to events, talking to other prospective students, and falling in love with the school. I got into UCSB but I thought there was no way I'd get into CCS, and picking UCI over UCSB was a no-brainer for me. However I just unexpectedly got into UCSB CCS Physics, and so now I'm struggling to decide. I'd appreciate any perspective you guys could give me :)
UCSB CCS Pros:
Incredibly rigorous and well-regarded program- commonly referred to as the 'grad school for undergrads'
Very tight-knit community with about 10-15 students admitted every year
Perks like early class registration
Close relationships with a mentor professor
Able to take any class P/NP and drop until the last day of class
Very easy to get into any research opportunities because of the reputation of the program
Gen Ed requirements can be taken in CCS classes instead of massive lecture halls
UCSB CCS Cons:
~5 hour drive away from home. This is a MAJOR CONCERN for me as I want to stay close to my family :(
UCI Pros:
Still a UC school, still has a very good Physics program
Has enough research opportunities that all Physics students are able to find a spot
I have a roommate lined up already and have met a few other people there
~1 hour away from home, so I will be able to return on weekends etc
Love the campus, community, etc
UCI Cons:
Just the fact that I'll always be wondering whether I would have been able to achieve more in CCS :/
urban trail
sick laurel