Advice Requested -- UCLA vs Vanderbilt

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of California - Los Angeles
1

<p>Hey everyone UCLA was my dream school for quite a while and I was thrilled when I got in. I also ended up getting into Vanderbilt which was a bit of a reach for me and, after visiting both, I am a bit torn. I would really appreciate some advice from current UCLA students on what they think, given their experience at UCLA (with large classes, budget cuts, etc.) vs the experience I would get at a private school (10,000 students) like Vanderbilt.</p>

<p>My biggest concern with UCLA is the ongoing budget cuts and large size. However, I like the proximity of LA to where I live and the reputation/experience at UCLA most students get.</p>

<p>Thank you, I appreciate the advice!</p>

2

<p>I wouldn’t be too concerned with the budget cuts. It really hasn’t impacted the university as strongly as people think and the state of California finances is improving. I would pick Vanderbilt if you’re paying the same amount simply for its smaller class sizes. But if you’re in-state and concerned with costs, UCLA isn’t a particularly bad choice either.</p>