UC Berkeley vs. Johns Hopkins

Pre-Med & Medical School Pre-Med Topics
1

<p>I've narrowed down my choices to these two schools for pre-med, and I'm having a very tough time deciding which one I should attend. </p>

<p>-With financial aid and grants, both cost around the same
-I do live in California, so that makes the location of UCB somewhat convenient
-I'm aware that JHU has a higher medical school acceptance rate
-I know that I'll get a solid education at both, so I don't feel that one has a glaring advantage over the other in this area
-I've heard that UCB has grade deflation, especially for Molecular and Cellular Biology related courses
-The city of Baltimore isn't the safest (I should research this more)
-The social atmosphere of UCB really appeals to me. Its quirky and liberal environment is one where I would easily fit in
-I have a few good friends going to UCB, and I'd like to keep in touch with them
-The class size of JHU is smaller, so I might get more personal time with professors. This could be advantageous for research postions and whatnot. However, I've heard good things about the opportunities at UCB</p>

<p>I know that I can't go wrong with either option, but I came here for a reason haha. I'm very indecisive, so any advice from anyone will help me greatly and will be appreciated. At the moment, I'm slightly leaning towards UCB because of friends and the social atmoshpere. So with all that said, which one should I choose for pre-med, and why?</p>

2

<p>Sounds to me like you want to go to Cal, lol. </p>

<p>Cal seems like the “safer” choice. It’s got some friends, is closer to home, and has the atmosphere and vibe you like. JH has the more unusual and out-of-the-ordinary qualities: across the country, in a seemingly less safe neighborhood, and void of acquaintances. </p>

<p>I’d personally go to Johns Hopkins because it seems more exciting, but alas, I am not in your position, haha. Good luck to you, mate!</p>

3

<p>Actually, shortstuf, the “safer” choice isn’t always the best choice. Getting out of your comfort zone and exploring new areas is actually a GOOD idea. Granted you’ve visited the campus and and enjoy this new perspective, JH shouldn’t be dismissed because you’re not used to it.</p>

<p>BUT, I would still say Berkeley, for now.</p>

<p>

</p>

<p>This is SUPER important. The best fit. Those three words are famous throughout this forum. Unless you haven’t visited JH yet, which I suggest you do to see if you can fit there, Berkeley seems to be your best choice.</p>

4

<p>That’s why I said I would go to JH, Ace =P. I meant “safe” as in he’s more used to and more familiar with Cal. I agree with you on every point. It was late night, so I really couldn’t gather my thoughts and type it, haha.</p>

5

<p>Whoops. My bad. And same, according to the post stamp, this was done at 1:44 AM PST. Hahah.</p>