<p>I had the fortune to get into both UCLA and UC Berkeley as Electrical Engineering major, (EECS for Berkeley).</p>
<p>I know that Berkeley's engineering program is renowned internationally and nationally, and I believe the reputation it carries is in different league from UCLA, although UCLA has good reputation too. And I heard life at Berkeley as a "Engineering" major is very harsh and does not have a very good social life due to its difficult course loads. </p>
<p>UCLA's ranking in engineering is also top, but does not carry the "Berkeley engineer" reputation. Life there in general sounds a lot more fun. After so many all-nighters in my high school and I pretty much have given up my social life so far in Elementary, Middle, and High school to study hard, I deserve some fun.</p>
<p>I love sports (tennis, swimming). I do not like engineering "that" much - my major may change once I go to a college. I love social interactions. Does Berkeley have this?</p>
<p>Engineering is hard everywhere. I’m not sure why there’s a misconception that UCLA is easy compared to Berkeley, but let me be clear: they are both VERY competitive schools. If you want to do well in engineering, you’ll have to work your butt off at either school. Now, that doesn’t mean that you’ll have no social life. Engineers have friends, go to parties, etc. You may not have as many free nights a week as some liberal arts majors, but engineering is a very profitable degree and is definitely worth the extra work you put in now. So don’t freak out. People wouldn’t flock to Berkeley EECS if it meant forfeiting the best years of their lives. I know many Berkeley EECS, engineering, and other majors and they can all attest to having fun at their school, enjoying a full social life, and leading a successful education. </p>
<p>As far as the partying scene goes, LA is more about clubbing and nightlife (i.e. LA life); whereas, Berkeley has a stronger greek life and parties hosted there. I’ve been to Berkeley many times and I’ve visited UCLA a few times as well. The LA campus is beautiful as is the surrounding area. The Berkeley campus is stunning as well but the city of Berkeley leaves a lot to be desired. If you’re not sure about your major, I think Berkeley offers better options as most of its departments – not just engineering – outrank UCLA’s. </p>
<p>Obviously, they’re both great schools but there’s no question on which one comes out ahead. Neither school has that “Caltech-ambiance” and you will be able to find a satisfying social and athletic life at either school. In my opinion, you should choose Berkeley EECS whether or not you plan on staying in engineering, but you should make the decision after visiting the schools and asking current students.</p>
<p>Why Berkeley if I may chage major may I ask? The rankings are a lot higher??</p>