I was accepted Undeclared into UCSD and I would like to major in biology at USD. If I do end up going to UCSD I would most likely major in Cognitive Science. I’m planning to go premed because I want to work in the medical field. I received a scholarship at USD so it would cost about 40k a year, but at UCSD I didn’t receive any scholarship and since I’m out of state it would cost about 60k a year. My parents can afford both, but it would be nice saving $20k. I want to go to a school that has more of a “traditional” college vibe and isn’t just studying 24/7. I know about UCSD’s reputation as being “socially dead” and that it’s only really socially dead if you don’t put yourself out there, but it still concerns me. I’ve gone to private schools all my life in Illinois and I want a change of pace, but I don’t know if going to a public university with so many people is too much change for me. I feel I’d be more comfortable at USD, but that I might be missing out on the great opportunity that is UCSD. Is UCSD really worth $60k a year? If you are a student at either university would you mind sharing your experiences at that university? Thanks in advance I’ve just really needed an unbiased opinion to help me with this stressful decision.
You’ll be making much more than 80k in the long run if you go to UCSD. No point of saving that little money if your parents can pay and going to a much worser university that pales in comparison to the research UCSD does. Your med school prospects out of UCSD are better too.
Both are good choices and you can’t really go wrong, but if your long-term goal is med school,
my vote would be for USD.
Not only for the lower overall cost, but for the smaller class sizes, access to professors, likelihood of graduation in four years, as well as a much less competitive environment in which to succeed.
Should you choose UCSD, however, be sure to take advantage of any and all undergrad advising on offer; go out of your way to seek advising from your first days on campus.
Additionally, be sure to go to and attend events sponsored by the Medicine and Health Professions advising through the Career Center. They have lots of wonderful information, but you need start working with them early on, as early as first semester freshman year.