Hi,
I’ve been debating for the past month between these two schools and as May 1st approaches I’m still indecisive.
I’m an international student (Canadian born Chinese) wanting to study biology, then possibly going to med school after undergrad. I’ve made a quick pros and cons list for both schools:
Rice - Pros
Smaller classes, more contact with profs
Better bioengineering program (this is a possible path for me although I’m unsure atm)
Better academics overall
Ranked high for quality of life/happiest students
Rice - Cons
Hot/humid weather and very buggy
Smaller campus, might feel stifled
UCLA - Pros
Perfect weather and better local area
Better reputation
UCLA med school is very well known
UCLA - Cons
Larger classes
Academics not as good as Rice?
I’ve been consulting various friends, parents, teachers and even a few current Rice/UCLA students and overall I feel like Rice has better academics, but UCLA has better environment/atmosphere and reputation.
Any advice/suggestions? Thank you! Also, cost is not an issue for me (: