<p>Decisions have come back, and I've been accepted into UCSD-Marshall, Occidental, and Northeastern. After financial aid and scholarships, the price comes out about the same. I'm fairly indifferent to location. So, I'm not sure which school to go to. Northeastern's co-op program is beyond cool. Occidental's status as a LAC is attractive but I've heard that it's in a bad neighborhood and the whole covering up rape thing seems sketchy. UCSD has no negatives or positives for me. It is slightly more expensive than the other two but I did get into Marshall (top choice). I'd really appreciate some insight onto the type of vibe/students that would fit in. Any help or insight would be valuable! </p>
<p>These are such different schools that you really need to look at the type of environment that you prefer. You say weather is not a big deal, but UCSD has near perfect weather while NE can get pretty chilly. Occidental is very small while the other 2 are very large. Occidenal has a very pretty campus but is in a very urban environment- I believe they do have a good safety rating. Are you from Calif.? Have you visited any of the 3? Academically I would rate UCSD at the top but it does depend on your major. You would get a good education at any of the 3. I really think you need to visit to get a feel for the fit. </p>
<p>I’m hoping to visit next week or so. I am from California, but I used to live on the East Coast, so I’m used to both types of weather. I guess, my real question is the type of students each school attracts. That’s what I’m hoping someone can explain to me.</p>