UCI vs UCD vs USD vs UW Engineering

I’ve narrowed it down to these four options for Mechanical Engineering. UCI & UCD are the most affordable options due to my in state status. I have a $15K/Yr scholarship offer from USD and $4K/Yr from UW. The problem with UW is that it’s not a direct admit and getting into engineering later on is competitive. I’m also on waitlist for UCSD. I’'m leaning toward UCI over UCD due to my preference of location since they are very similar academically. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Do you have to take out any loans? BTW I don’t think UW is worth it if you’re not direct admit.

@philbegas no I don’t need loans. I like UW and they are very strong in engineering but I agree with you. It seems like a huge risk of never actually majoring in engineering. Maybe I’m missing something.

It seems like for all of UW you have to apply after a couple years. It almost seems like it’s better to go to a washington CC and then transfer so you only go if you get into your major.

Have you visited either campuses?? UCD, UCI?

@lozancich yes for Irvine but not Davis. I like the proximity to beaches and all that Orange County has to offer. I’ve heard that Davis has more of the college town experience but that’s not really what I’m looking for.