<p>D has had a great experience at a mid-tier UC. Of her peer group, I think the ones attending UCs have generally been happy and engaged. I’m puzzled by what I hear about not being able to graduate from UCs in four years. D is graduating early, as are most of her friends - including a number with double majors. I honestly don’t know of any case where someone was unable to graduate in 4 years - though I can imagine it could happen if you changed your plans late in the game. Maybe its school-specific, but kids I know in a variety of UCs all seem to be graduating on time or early.
I have to add too, that D has found accessible professors and a good deal of nurturing along the way. I would say the atmosphere is more nurturing than either my or S’s experience with LACs. D is not necessarily self-directed or confident, but honestly, her UC experience has helped her in that regard.</p>