As of now I am choosing between UCSB and Lewis & Clark. I think I like l&c more, but not significantly, and it is MUCH more expensive. I feel that a small liberal arts school would offer more opportunities, but I’m not sure those opportunities are worth the extra 10k/yr. I liked UCSB a lot but I got a concussion last year that affects me still and I’m worried a big UC would not tale care of me as well as a small school might. I want to major in either english/creative writing or environmental sciences, and I’m concerned about impacted majors at a UC (currently undecided). It seems like the right thing to do financially, though, and a degree from a UC looks good for employers. I’d like to get a career in the pacific northwest, not socal, and I’m not sure UCSB will make that possible for me geographically speaking.
These obviously are two very different schools with very different vibes. If you’d eventually like to move to the PNW, Lewis &Clark would make more sense. And I agree that SB would be less personal. What do your parents say? I don’t think you will be able to take out loans to cover the difference without their help.
Both schools are very good. If cost weren’t a factor, I think you might do better at L&C. But cost does matter.
We toured both schools - L&C for my eldest and UCSB for my youngest. Both are great and you have two really good choices. Both have beautiful campuses. You might consider the graduation rates and make sure you can get through either in four years, especially if comparing the total four year costs. If you think you would be better off at an LAC and can afford the difference, L&C seems like a good choice. L&C is known for having a good creative writing program as well as environmental studies.