D got into the ff schools: UCSD, UCD, UCI, Santa Clara University, Northeastern University, Brandeis University (waitlisted at UCB and NYU). She’s majoring in Biology and probably shifting to Bioengineering. I also want her to be in the company of students that will be good influence and also have vast connections. I would appreciate it if anyone can give me an idea about the mentioned schools so I can help her choose.
UCSD is a better school than any of the others for both biology and bioengineering, and the students there will be of a (marginally) higher caliber. However, it’s extremely difficult/almost impossible to transfer into bioengineering, which is my department. I don’t know anyone who’s pulled it off. There will be many more opportunities for research and internships in La Jolla than anywhere else.
Check how difficult it will be to get into the bioengineering major at each school. For example:
UCSD: http://be.ucsd.edu/faq-advising
UCI: http://www.changeofmajor.uci.edu/CoM_Engr.html
UCD: https://bme.ucdavis.edu/undergrad/advising/change-of-major/
SCU: https://www.scu.edu/engineering/academic-programs/frequently-asked-questions/
Northeastern: http://www.coe.neu.edu/undergraduate-studies/change-major
Brandeis: no bioengineering major
Northeastern has the co-op program and the advantage of location with Boston, a huge medical hub. That’s a great way to get practical experience and connections. Plenty of bright students and Northeastern is general is much more collaborative than competitive.