<p>Why should someone attend Santa Barbara instead San Diego?
What makes UC Santa Barbara so special?</p>
<p>I'm conflicted between the two.
The reason that I would pick UCSB over UCSD is because I got a Regents scholarship and all the benefits that go with it (honors program, priority registration, guaranteed housing all 4 years, more one-on-one time with professors, etc.). I didn't get much aid from UCSD. However, I still have to visit both campuses before I make my decision.</p>
<p>I'd say it's the close knit community of students at UCSB. Just look at a map and note Isla Vista directly adjacent to the campus. Most students live right next to campus and also right next to each other. UCSD doesn't really have anything like that, instead having a lot of commuters from home and Pacific Beach or whatever. </p>
<p>As a result, the town is really geared towards students. Lots of late night food places, stuff to do, etc. And of course the "party" atmosphere is there too, just because it so easy to visit any of your friends; just hop on a bike and you're there in a couple minutes. UCSD doesn't really have a community like that. Also, UCSD doesn't field Division I sports teams.</p>