<p>I really am torned about which college to choose between UCLA or USC. I got into both but UCLA isn't really offering a financial aid package. I want to eventually go to medical school. I really want to be in LA and was happy to find out I got into both. With the budget crisis happening in UC schools, will that turn around in the next couple of years? USC may offer a better financial aid package but I've heard the quarter system and the research opportunities are better at UCLA. Help!</p>
<p>the quarter system is not better than the semester system… most would argue the other way. </p>
<p>Stanford, Chicago, Northwestern, and UCLA are the only top 25 schools of which I am aware that operate on the quarter system. There could be one or two more, but it is in a distinct minority. The biggest problem with Quarter system is that you finish school in mid-June, which really creates a problem with many corporate internships and summer jobs. Then, everyone else is back to college in the fourth week of August, and you’re sitting around for three more weeks killing time.</p>
<p>Research opportunities should be the same at either school. USC has its affiliated hospital system/researchers, as does UCLA.</p>
<p>After you visit both campuses, you’ll likely have a very clear choice. If you cannot visit both prior to May 1, then SIR to both and make your final decision as soon after May 1 as possible.</p>