So I was accepted to UCSD and UCLA for Chemistry and I was not sure what would be the better choice. I would be paying ~5,000/yr for UCSD and almost triple for UCLA. I’m conflicted because I’m not sure which is better for research opportunities and if UCSD is somewhat less competitive (potential for better GPA). I want to go to grad school eventually, so I would love some advice and input.
At would chose UCSD. I think undergraduate chemistry at both schools are similar.
You may have the opportunity to have intership in biotech companies surrounding UCSD too.
For what it’s worth, I chose UCSD Regents over UCLA and Berkeley for Bio/Biochem. There are tons of research opportunities at UCSD and near UCSD (like Salk, Scripps, etc, which are right next to UCSD), and there are a lot of local labs that offer internships. Many students go on to graduate school so there are a lot of resources for students applying.
That being said, I’m sure UCLA has research opportunities as well. The campuses are very different, so if you can, I would try to visit to see if that impacts your decision.
So, I just found out that I am invited to apply for Regents at UCLA. Iffff I get Regents at UCLA, would UCSD still be better than UCSD? (for the sake of guaranteed research, pricing, and potentially getting a better GPA for grad school…I assume I would get a similar fiancial aid package because I am considered having “financial need”). Both provide priority enrollment, guaranteed housing, etc.
I will find out if I’m a chosen applicant in mid May, a little before I need to SIR.
I’ve been to both campuses, loved UCLA’s campus and loved that UCSD is so close to the ocean. However, UCSD also has more nearby labs. But, LA has lots of opportunity as well. In other words, I feel comfortable at both campuses.
Some pros of UCLA is they accept my community college’s organic chemistry lab (last quarter/quals) where UCSD does not. I would have to retake it, but it would not affect my graduation and could possible help transition into the university setting. Reevaluating costs at UCSD, it is a full ride if I include CalGrant and the honorinium. If there ends up being a minimal difference between cost of UCLA and UCSD, Iwould want to choose whichever will provide the most opportunity and benefits for my field. I know both are great schools for science undergrads.
If the cost is the same then UCLA is probably better because you love the campus and UCLA ranks a little bit higher in chemistry (this may not be a big point, but one has to find a reason to tip the scale).