For exchange undergrad student which would be better choice? Penn and Berkeley in physics.

Hi all, Im a korean undergrad student applying for exchange student program . I have trouble choosing between UCB and Penn! I know that reputation of Penn is really great. But for exchange student, I dont seriously care about it, and I dont know whether the physics department of Penn is good or not. UCB is not as great in reputation as Penn, but I know that their grad school in physics is great.

I know both are great.

But, where do you recommend to apply? please consider that Im a physics major and want to study particle physics! I want to meet excellent professors and want to do research with!

I want to apply Penn because it is famous but I dont know whether it will help for my physics career.

any short comment would be appreciated!!

thank you!

You have two excellent options. You should have an excellent experience at either school. I know in some countries and specific majors UCB might have a stronger reputation than Penn. However, Penn is usually viewed as stronger overall by people in the US. I don’t know about how Penn Physics is viewed externally, but I would put the students up against any.

I am told that the Penn Physics program is very rigorous at Penn, although it doesn’t always get a lot of recognition. I have no doubt that they will be able to keep you challenged. I would Investigate the research with the department. There are many opportunities at Penn in general, but it could be challenging to find one if you are only there for one semester. I would try to investigate that in advance for both schools.

Also check out any clubs or activities that would add to your experience.

If she has time to respond, @rebeccar can tell you a lot more about the Penn Physics program, specifically.

I suspect the only limits on what you can learn in a semester at Penn with be the amount you put into it and your willingness to find opportunities and get involved.