<p>HELP! I'm still having a hard time deciding which college to go to for pre-med (UCI or University of San Diego)
I know there are pros and cons for both schools--UCI having a notable reputation/science department and USD being private, which mean small classes and interaction with professors. In contrast, UCI is crowded with more competition and USD isn't known for its sciences.</p>
<p>I know it's up to the students grades, ec's, MCAT's, etc. that determine entrance, BUT what school will help me given their pros and cons??</p>
<p>I have a kid at a small LAC, another who did UCI & another who did Cal.</p>
<p>UCs are big, bustling, busy, grade on a curve, won’t hold your hand, etc. There are likely to be more research opportunities there, but many kids have found good research at LACs too. You may find the atmosphere exciting or you may feel lost in the crowd.</p>
<p>One of my kids never liked her UC, she realised later she does vastly better when she knows the prof, the prof knows her, etc. Another DD liked her UC, but she admits she had to work very very hard to connect with profs, etc.</p>
<p>My LAC DD loves it and is happy to know her profs well.</p>
<p>Which is the right atmosphere for you to shine? It does not matter what is better for others, it matters what will work for you!</p>