I normally dont ask the online community for help (i try to do my own research and readings and make my own decisions), but i am in a hard spot. I am torn between Cal and UCSD. I got in for Civil Engineering for Cal, and Aerospace Engineering for UCSD. I dont really have much background in engineering besides the interest of tinkering and creating contraptions when I was young. I simply just put engineering because it was the spur of the moment on the UC app.
For engineering I realize that Cal has the superior Engineering program, but is extremely intense (talked with Cal students during a 3 night visit program). I’m not sure that I will like engineering once i experience it and that is why UCSD is the other option for me. I plan to switch majors if I dont do well/lose interest in engineering. At Cal, I forsee myself trying to stay afloat with the rigorous classes. Financially, the schools are offering me the same amount. I don’t care too much about the dorms or food. I have visited both campuses and they both have their pro and cons. Also, I am also looking into maybe going into dentistry (kinda random i know) because thats another thing that really interests me. I’m just stuck on what to choose because college is such a big decision that will basically affect the rest of your life. TL;DR Got into engineering for Cal and UCSD, not sure if i like engineering, possibly intending to switch majors while at either college. Help please
If you’re at a stalemate, I advise that you consider the more subjective aspects of UC Berkeley and UC San Diego. Did you prefer the “vibe” of one campus? What about the weather? Have you always been in Nor/So Cal and want a change of pace/place?
Personally, I believe Berkeley will offer you more academically because of your unease regarding your choice of major. If you decide to pursue a career in any field, a Cal diploma will have more “face-value.”
Are you interested in designing buildings, transportation systems, and the like (civil) or aircraft and spacecraft (aerospace)? Note that Berkeley has civil but not aerospace, while UCSD has aerospace but not civil. Both may be somewhat difficult to switch to a different engineering major.
UCSD has structure engineering which is close to civil engineering.