<p>I have been accepted to both, but I’m not sure at all which to pick. I am majoring in cognitive neuroscience and am thinking to go down the research route, but im not set on it, so I would also like to explore other areas. Which of the two do you think would be a better fit for me?
I like UCSD because ive heard a lot of their neuroscience grad program and the Salk institute is right there, but I dont know anything about their undergrad program, and I dont know much about Cal in terms of how strong their cog sci dept is. i realize cal’s somewhat more prestige so maybe that factors in too, i dont know, i really need help, thanks so much!</p>
<p>If you are interested in cognitive neurosciences, isn't UCSD one of the best in this field? Wouldn't it afford you opportunities in research, even as an undergrad? I really don't know the answers to these questions. I guess you will need to determine the strength of Cal's program before deciding.</p>
<p>Pulkit,
You might be best served by calling the undergraduate and graduate schools of both colleges. You sound pretty directed, and I imagine there are some good reasons why you are so specific in what you would like to study. Devise a list of questions that are important to you. Also remember that if you like a certain graduate school, you can always apply there after you complete your undergraduate degree.</p>
<p>yeah, i have done quite a bit of research in neuroscience over the summer at usc and here in tx as well, and i really seem to like it. but the thing is i dont want to commit to something before exploring some other areas as well. in my opinion i have a hunch that ucsd is better for neuro, but for general academic rigor, maybe berkeley.
the thing is, ucsd's graduate program is so solid, i just dont know how that correlates to their undergraduate research, because they dont have a specific program for undergads in neuroscience.</p>
<p>There may not be a specific program for undergraduates in neuroscience at UCSD, but think of the connections and contacts you can make, which could open doors for you in terms of graduate studies, or even research opportunities while as an undergraduate. Of course, I have no way of really knowing whether this is at all possible. But given your expertise and interest in neuroscience, I think that you are a step ahead of most undergrads and would most likely have a better chance of securing a position for research, or at least making yourself known. And don't think that the general academic rigor at UCSD is diminished: their science courses are not easy. I would say that the humanities are stronger at UCB, though.
Just my opinion, though. I do agree with collegemom16 that making some phone calls is a good idea.</p>