Opinions of University of California - San Diego?

<p>I would be an out of state student and I am attracted to University of Washington because of their supposed awesome premed and the fact that it's in seattle. What's dorm life like? Can I live in an apartment my freshman year? How are the academics? Honors? Atmosphere? People? Comparative to Ohio State, UCSB, or University of Washington. Any opinions would be appreciated.</p>