<p>Heinz - I should have been clearer. I was thinking that if you really wanted to get into working directly with particle physics that schools with access to particle accelerators could get an emphasis over those without such access. Although I suppose these days with the way data is shared it probably doesn’t make so much difference anyway. I am sure you will find the right environment. I always got the impression Princeton was one of the strongest in theoretical physics, but you might know better than I in that regard.</p>
<p>All the schools you are considering, including the safeties, will have ample lab opportunities in many areas of physics, bio, bio-engineering, etc.</p>
<p>You said you wouldn’t apply to all of those CA colleges but I would. All the UC’s have the same app so it is easy. Although UCSD as an OOS safety is NOT a safety. It’s extremely hard to get into the UC’s, especially the best as an OOS student. But do apply. Just don’t consider them safeties or even matches.</p>
<p>there are changes in the UC system this year. OOS acceptance rate increased substaintially( Cal, for example, OOS enrollment increased from 15% to some thing like 22%, I don’t have the exact figure) because the budget problems. UCSD, especaily is looking for OOS students as all the higher ranking applicants went to Cal and UCLA. If you are qualified, UCSD will take you. The only school that anyone would have a problem is the engineering school at UCSD. This is not my word, we just came from campus visit in April and the departments told us. DD was accepted but endup did not go.</p>
<p>Your stat is close or even better than my DD.</p>