<p>I've been admitted as a first-time freshman fr both UCI and UCSB, and I just took tours of both campuses. I loved both of them, and I'm not sure which one to choose. I don't know what I want to major in yet, and they both are academically strong, so I'm not worried about that. I don't find Santa Barbara (the city) and the other cities around the UCSB campus to be exciting at all, and I'm worried I would get bored with the area after four years (I get restless and I love exploring). Everyone at SB, though, seems so happy, friendly, and welcoming, and I do like that it's by the beach. It had a really great feel to it. However, I'm not very social, and I love having some time all by myself. People say that UCI Is a commuter school, so the campus is "dead" during the weekends. That doesn't bother me too much though because I love being able to find places where there aren't many people around. I also really like that UCI is between LA and SD. I also love the dorms at Irvine. It has more of a homey feel rather than a hotel/apartment feel.
I love the campuses at both schools. I liked the beachyness of SB, and I like how everyone bikes everywhere. It's definitely a beautiful campus. I like all of the trees, grass, and buildings at Irvine, and I like how vibrant the colors are there.
Because I don't know what I'm majoring in yet, I'm focusing more on the "vibe and feel" of the campus and social life. I've heard great things about the academic life at both schools, so I'm not too worried about it. I just want to figure out which school will make me happier.</p>
<p>i would personally pick UCSB just because their campus is so gorgeous haha. one thing to keep in mind is that it’s a huge party school, and from what i’ve heard if that’s not your scene it could be hard for you. there’s partying at all schools, but usually if you stay away from it you don’t really notice it. at UCSB though, from what i’ve heard if you don’t party then you definitely feel like a minority. however, i think UCSB is more diverse than UCI. i have nothing against asians (i’m half asian) but it’s a bit overwhelming at irvine. it feels like it’s pretty much all asian people and then a few people of other races scattered around the school. if that doesn’t bother you then obviously it’s not a drawback, that was just one of the drawbacks for me when i applied. i like a bit more diversity, and irvine didn’t have it.</p>