<p>I was not entirely sure if I wanted to post this on CC, but I really couldn't decide between these last two and I would definitely appreciate any help.</p>
<p>I'm an international student from Australia, so visiting these campuses at this time is pretty much out of the question. I've managed to narrow down my choices to these two, but I am sort of stuck between the two.</p>
<p>I'm planning on majoring in Mechanical Engineering and probably delve into Aerospace should I go to UCLA. I'm planning on going to grad school a few years after I graduate, either Law or Business school. </p>
<p>I've sort of jotted down what I like about both schools down below, so anything extra that you can comment on would help a lot!</p>
<p>UCLA:
- Los Angeles! This is probably one of the biggest reasons why I'm really keen on UCLA. We don't really have anything like LA in Australia. The busy and lively environment just seems like an absolutely amazing place with lots of things to do outside of academics.</p>
<ul>
<li><p>A large student body. Just getting to meet lots of new people and trying out all the various different clubs/sports teams. (Football, baseball etc. All the stuff we don't have over here!)</p></li>
<li><p>The school spirit. Most of the Bruins that I see are absolutely in love with their school. They turn up to all the football games and stuff like that. That sort of experience is something that I'm quite interested in experiencing (compared to all the rumours about miserable students at JHU...=P)</p></li>
</ul>
<p>JHU:
- Very academic orientated. Well, of course, the academics will play a huge role. And JHU's non-structured core curriculum would allow me lots of flexibility in choosing my subjects. Its strong program will also put me in good stead for graduate school.</p>
<ul>
<li><p>Research opportunities. Being able to do research right from freshman year is an experience that you won't be able to find in most places. </p></li>
<li><p>A small student body. This might seem at odds with UCLA, but I honestly don't think I'll mind either. At JHU, I'll be able to get familiar with most of the student body; that in itself is a nice aspect of the school.</p></li>
<li><p>Private school. More hand-holding, I guess. Having someone who would be able to advice me on academic issues would be a great help, especially since I'll be halfway around the world. </p></li>
<li><p>Prestige. I'm not going to lie and say that JHU's prestige isn't being considered at all.</p></li>
</ul>
<p>It might seem as though I'd prefer JHU since its list is much longer but I've been to LA many times, and I know I'll enjoy it there. I have no idea how Baltimore compares to it though.</p>
<p>I guess what my real dilemma is, is that I'm comparing SoCal to JHU. Would I prefer going to a university in SoCal (and not a bad one at all) or would I prefer going to Hopkins? </p>
<p>If you guys could provide me with <em>anything</em> at all, I'd definitely appreciate it. Thanks!</p>