Hey everyone,
Sorry, I wasn’t exactly sure where to post this.
I’m having a problem where my major is known to be better studied at a CSU, rather than a UC.
I am double majoring in comm studies and poly sci, to eventually become a professor, so grad school is in question later on. I am hoping to go to UCLA or UCSB next Fall. I currently have a 4.0 GPA, however I do have one W. I won first place in a comm studies showcase on campus, and I was given an award in academic achievement for comm as well. I am hoping those will stand out to my schools.
It is well known that comm studies is not a research based major, so my professors are pushing me to attend Cal state Fullerton (which apparently has the best program).
I was reading on college prowler/niche that UCSB is #15 in the United States for Comm studies. Yet, my professors want me to go to CSUF. I am completely torn. I feel like attending either UCLA or UCSB is a strong choice, but my professors are telling me that I will hate the programs offered for comm at a UC.
What do you guys think? Just looking for some advice, personal opinions, etc. I really am unsure what to do.
Thank you.
-Georgia
i’d suggest you burn your book of lists and free your mind from these silly rankings. Go where you think you will excel. It that is Fullerton… so be it. For a major like Comm Studies, you would be better served for grad school and most employers with 3.8 GPA and a bunch of great experience from Fullerton than a 3.0 and no extras from UCLA. Now, does a 3.8 and killer experience from UCLA trump the same from CSU Fullerton? Yes, for your first job. But, never again. And, you will have to work a LOT harder to stand out on that stage.
If I were in your shoes, i’d TAG UCSB, apply to UCLA, Fullerton and a couple of other schools that interest you. Maybe Long Beach, SDSU and Davis? See who lets you in and then decide. Make time in the Fall semester to spend some time on all of the campuses, talk to faculty and students, sit in on a couple of classes - then follow your gut. Pay less attention to where the schools sits on some list than how if feels. I guarantee, you will perform better at a school where you are comfortable.
good luck
^^^^^^^^^^ All of this.
Definitely do your research on each school you’re considering. I totally agree with @NCalRent on the job prospects. Since you’re most likely going to get the same opportunities/offers no matter where you go (as long as you keep those grades up!), you should focus on what school fits your ideal college experience. Better fit = Better everything. Take it from me, ranking becomes irrelevant once you draw experience from your visits.