Don't know where to go

<p>Hello guys,
For starters, I would like to major in mechanical engineering. A Bachelors of Science is my goal with a strong possibility to master. I have received my acceptance letters and I am having a difficult time deciding were to go as I hope to start a career after college. UC Irvine (UCI) is my favorite choice but I was not admitted. I have been accepted to Cal Poly Pomona, UC Riverside (UCR), UC Merced. Most of these colleges are within the Southern California region except for Merced (I was e-mailed and told I could apply for free so I did).</p>

<p>As far as I know, UCI is close by, its in a good neighborhood, it has a campus life thats suits me, and a good engineering program. I have been researching UCR and have been receiving mixed reviews. Riverside has a higher acceptance rate the most UCs and I have been under the impression a few students who attend UCR don't give it their all. Both Riverside and Cal Poly Pomona are in less desirable areas but are somewhat decent schools.</p>

<p>Now for my questions
1. How does Cal Poly Pomona compare to the UCs in engineering? Similar or more difficult in finding a job?
2. How far off is UCR from UCI in quality/prestige
3. What would be my best option between Cal Poly Pomona, UCR, or a Jc transfer to UCI
4. Are there any downsides/back fires that can arise from a JC transfer? (I know it might take longer to get a bachelors.)</p>

<p>I apologize in advance for any errors/mistakes as i am new to CC</p>

<p>Any advice will be greatly appreciated, thanks</p>

<p>Hi anthony!
First off, have you visited Cal Poly, UCR or UCM? If not, I highly suggest doing so. I think the only way you can tell for sure is if you visit each campus and see if it offers what you’re looking for. </p>

<p>I know a few people who are currently attending/about to attend CPP and I’ve heard nothing but great things! From what I know, they have a great engineering program. I don’t know too much about UCR, but I do know they have an admit rate of around 78%. CPP has an admit rate of around 53%. </p>

<p>If you decide to go to CPP or UCR, and you realize that you don’t like the school, you can always transfer to UCI. College is not a prison; you can leave whenever you want! </p>

<p>Sorry I can’t offer much help. Best of luck!</p>

<p>Any help is welcome thanks :)</p>

<p>Cal Poly Pomona has a fine engineering school. I don’t know why you’re comparing it to UCI when UCI is off the table.</p>

<p>Both Cal Polys are known for having a hands-on approach to engineering. </p>

<p>And, if you’d like, you can participate in making the Cal Poly Rose Bowl float. My cousin (an engineer) met her future husband working on a float many years ago.</p>

<p>I would pick Cal Poly over UCR and UCMerced for engineering.</p>

<p>Cal Poly is a good school to go to for Mechanical Engineering. And like someone said above, you can always transfer to UCI later on. Cal Poly will provide an excellent foundation if you are planning to do this. Also, i think that Cal Poly is also slightly cheaper than UCR or Merced.</p>

<p>On the downside, all I can say is Cal Poly is kind of boring. There really isnt that much to do in the surrounding area of Cal Poly. I know this cus I live in a nearby city, and I am dying of boredom.</p>

<p>Thanks guys, I guess the whole situation fogged up my mind a bit.</p>

<p>As for boring area…I’m not sure how boring it really is for a college kid, but…</p>

<p>If you will be bringing your car to campus, then you will have quick access to Orange County or LA for weekend things to do.</p>