Picking the wrong college?

State Forums
1

A few days ago, I had a tough time thinking about which college I wanted to go to. I was deciding between UCSD, UCLA, and UCI. Ultimately I went with UCSD as my gut choice, mainly because it is close to home and I can commute to campus everyday. I have friends on campus who can help me transition into college. Having a difficult family situation right now was also a factor. I got accepted as an econ major to all three colleges, although I am not sure about that major anymore.

Now, a few days later, I still have a little regret over my college decision. I’ve always liked UCLA for their sports (I know that should not be the only reason to go), but the prestige and having that college experience was something I’d always thought was valuable. A lot of people around me disagree with my decision and insisted that I should get out of San Diego. While I did want to do that, I would feel very stressed financially and I do not want to be in debt my first two years while trying to figure out what I want to do with my life. I was never able to visit both UCLA or UCI due to a physical injury I suffered this month, so I don’t even have a clear idea of where I fit most on campus.

Did I make the wrong decision? I know I haven’t even started at UCSD yet so I wouldn’t know definitely just yet. After reading a whole bunch of discussions and posts online, I feel bad about my decision still. I have gotten pressure from so many people about college and it has been driving me crazy. Your help is much appreciated

2

Nope, you made the right decision. The people telling you to get out of SD aren’t the ones paying the bill. You’ve made a great choice.

3

Stick with your gut. You chose UCSD for good reasons. Others’ opinions are just noise.

4

Totally agree with your UCSD choice.

My son lives in LA (doesn’t go to UCLA) and the traffic/expense is daunting.

If nobody else had an opinion one way or the other would you be happy with your UCSD choice? Probably, at least it sounds that way. Don’t let other people steal your excitement about a solid choice for your circumstances.

5

I think this feeling is the result of having good options. In the past when I have chosen between two really good possibilities a questions lingers about whether the other one would have been better. In time it becomes clear that I made the best decision at that time. Since you thought about it, then you should be happy that you made the best possible decision for you – not for someone else and not in some abstract realm of what is better for people in general.

6

Yes, I would be happy overall with my choice. Like what bookguy said, I had two good options so it will always be on my mind what possibilities could happen had I chose UCLA or other colleges far away from SD. I feel like UCSD is still my best choice regarding my personal circumstance.

7

you made the right call. Don’t second guess yourself and make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead. I really think you’ll love it there.