<p>mom2collegekids just brought up a good point. You want to be absolutely sure that you will get residency status in California (or scholarships that will bring the cost to the equivalent, renewable for 4 years) before going to school at a UC. While the UCs are well known, there is no reason why you should spend $35,000 a year in out-of-state tuition over there. Also, housing in California is going to ring you up a monstrous sum. I’m not saying don’t apply – just be willing to walk away if in your acceptance letter they say, “If you choose to accept this offer, you will be expected to supply your own funds…”</p>
<p>Also, don’t overlook the University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign). I don’t know what your thoughts are of attending UI, but just a quick glance at their average acceptance stats from businessweek suggests that you would be a competitive applicant.</p>
<p>Bottom line, you want to be an economics major. Go with the best school that you can afford (with emphasis on AFFORD).</p>