desperately looking for input:
Im a transferring undergrad, I was accepted into a Pre-psychological and Brian sciences program at UCSB and into the Psych program at UCSD. Im pursuing becoming a PA so i need to keep my gpa up. im in love with SD. however the program at SB allows me too choose between a BA in psychology or a BS in Biopsychology which was the major i initially wanted to study. Im conflicted because I really like SD and if im not mistaken its a higher ranked school however im concerned about how competitive it is and if it would be possible to switch to a science major (cognitive science possibly). however im not too certain if my major is of that much importance for PA school assuming i completed pre-reqs on the side. SB i know for sure is a great school too but i dont see myself being as happy/motivated there however i think it may be a bit easier to focus on my studies since its a college town versus a city. i know ultimately the decision comes down to me however i would really appreciate other perspectives especially coming from psych or pre-health background.
Hi! It sounds like your heart is telling you SD, so go for where you think you’ll be happiest (and UCSD is a great school!). If this helps, the comment about “I think it may be a bit easier to focus at UCSB because it’s a college town vs a city”, is likely not going to be the case. Although UCSB is full of highly motivated students, it also tends to attract social students…so there is always something going on that could potentially distract you (concerts in the park, block parties, etc). So if focus is a concern, in all likelihood UCSD might be a better fit. Best of luck!
UCSD has a solid psych program and the world’s first and #1 cognitive science department (you can switch in with a click). It’s competitive, yes, but more collaborative than cutthroat. There are plenty of resources to help you keep your GPA up and if you apply yourself you can excel.
is santa barbra a safer choice?