<p>I've been accepted to both UCSB and UCR for Biochemistry, and I am really torn between these two schools. Money plays a very big factor, as the living cost in Riverside is a lot cheaper, but the school's appeal isn't that great (plus, the weather is terrible). Santa Barbara, on the other hand, is a great community, beautiful with great weather, but living costs are a lot higher. I am planning to go to med school, and I understand that UCR has a medical program while UCSB does not. Please help?</p>
<p>The weather isn’t terrible in Riverside, if you don’t mind hot weather!</p>
<p>For your major, I would say it is a tough choice. Have you visited each school? I would highly suggest a visit and to talk directly with students in each of these programs.</p>
<p>I do know that UCR has a great bio and sciences, especially as it has strong links to med schools and plans for its own.</p>
<p>UCR has the Thomas Haider program which admits 25 students from UCR to medical school. I think they do the first two years in Riverside and then transfer to UCLA. UCR also just got more funding to start its own medical school. </p>
<p>The downside of Riverside is that its in Riverside. There is little to do off campus. There is no real “campus town”. The campus itself is nice and so is the surrounding area for a few blocks. There is sort of a no-man’s land between the campus area and the downtown, which again isn’t bad, but is not walking distance from campus.</p>
<p>UCR all da way!!!</p>
<p>I DO mind hot weather, that’s why I said terrible :(</p>
<p>I haven’t had a chance to visit each school, this spring break week is insane. All the tours are already filled, which is not good for my decision.</p>
<p>People say that undergraduate does not really matter when you are going to grad/med/law school as long as you have goo grades. Is it true?</p>