<p>I'm applying to Rice regular decision as one of my top choices. I'm really interested in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program, but I've only seen it from the website, not from a student's perpective. Apparently Rice just started new tracks in the EEB major, like Conservation Biology (Which is perfect for what I want to do!)?</p>
<p>I heard that at other colleges its looked at as Easy Biology, which I don't really want. Would I be better off double majoring in Bio, or would that be too difficult? I guess I could just minor in it, but I don't know a ton about the minor either. Also, I read somewhere that there was a crazy tiny number, like 9 people who graduates with an EEB degree last year. I wasn't sure if that was true or not, because if its so small I would be worried about class options.</p>
<p>So, if anyone knows anything about it, or has any input on the major in general, I would be really grateful. :)</p>
<p>Funny thing is, this post is a detailed list of all the questions my sister had. She is majoring in EEB as well (although she decided to go to Occidental College in LA in the end)</p>
<p>EEB is a very small major at Rice. That was of concern, as the opportunities are somewhat limited. That being said, if you want to work with a professor closely, this is the best possible place to do it. Between Rice’s excellent research and focus on undergraduates, and the small major - you will be able to do a lot of research and work with the professors. I am not sure exactly how many people graduated with an EEB degree, but it was very few.</p>
<p>We do not have a minor in Biology as far as I know. Then again, it may be new so don’t quote me on this. Maybe someone else could help me out here.</p>
<p>Regarding the subject - what field do you want to go into? Rice focuses heavily in the terrestrial and amphibious side of EEB. A lot of plant work is done as well and not very much on the aquatic/marine side. This is one of the reasons my sister was less interested in the program.</p>
<p>In summary, the major is small but there will be opportunities. It really depends on what field you wish to go into. Finally, no one cares what people think about “easy biology” etc. If you like it, then major in it.</p>
<p>Are you from Houston/Texas?</p>
<p>Nope, I’m from Virginia near the Washington DC area. I’m definitely more interested in terrestrial than aquatic ecology, so that would be good. I also tend more towards animals than plants. I’m really interested in the tropics, but any area is interesting, especially if it has to do with Conservation Biology. I’d love to do research, so maybe the small major would be a good thing.</p>
<p>The only reason I was concerned about “easy biology” was that I wasn’t sure if the major is technical enough. I know biology really goes indepth, but I wouldn’t want to be limited by a degree [in EEB] that didn’t give me much technical knowledge, like lab skills and things. Is it difficult to double major at Rice? Maybe that would be the way to go.</p>
<p>Out of curiosity, does your sister like the major? I think I’ll love it, but I’m not sure yet.
Thanks so much for your help!</p>
<p>The best thing to do would be to call the department. I just walked in and talked to a few professors about my sister considering Rice. Just call the department coordinator and see if someone is available to talk to you. If not, see if they can email you.</p>
<p>This will help answer your second question. You can always double major (a lot of people do it). The courses will overlap a lot as well, so this will help your cause.</p>
<p>As for my sister, she loves it. She is now doing work with her professors and is often going on trips to do research and studies.</p>
<p>Where else are you considering for EEB?</p>
<p>Ok, I’ll probably shoot them an email or call when I get the chance.</p>
<p>I’m also considering Vanderbilt and Cornel for EEB, or similar majors. I’m applying to Duke and Stanford as well. They don’t have EEB, but both have strong biology progams and have sites to do research.</p>
<p>And I’m glad your sister likes it! Hopefully I’ll feel the same way.</p>
<p>Sounds good. Post back with what you hear and if you have other questions about Rice in general.</p>
<p>Cheers</p>