<p>Hi, I have to choose either UIUC or UCSD for psychology major. I'm an international student from Vancouver.I don't know which one to pick for both have pros and cons. here are some of my thoughts on each uni: </p>
<p>UIUC: </p>
<p>-tremendous school spirit
-only 2 hours away from chicago, citylife
-typical college experience?
-but.. i read that illinois state owes quite a bit to the uni.. so I'm nervous about my tuition and how it will affect my studies. (apparently illinois state is in the worst situation in america)
-I've grown up in gloomy weather in vancouver. thus another 4 years of harsh weather... especially when I'm vulnerable to the cold :(
-I wonder how strong the alumni networking is..
-how stellar is the undergraduate program? not graduate?
-All I hear about UIUC is how great engineering program is, but I think i'd get quite annoyed seeing engineering majors over-representing the student population ( i might be wrong)
- i'm worried of being more of a number than a student at this big university. I assume, this would probably mean that it's harder to get to know professors...
-brother will be going to michigan state university. closer</p>
<p>UCSD: </p>
<p>-best weather!!
-very well known for biology (?) this helps because I'm also interested in that field.
-I got accepted to the Marshall College where academic requirements aren't that hard. manageable i hope.
-don't have to take 2nd language. ( i can't bear to learn mando :( i suck )
-beach is a walking distance away!
-I'm afraid San Diego will be quite a dead town (i heard lots of old people).. I'm not very into drinking nor partying (although I enjoy it at times) but I want to be in a stimulating environment with lots of opportunities.
-California is in a great $ crisis, I heard $400 million cuts for university, thus affecting the tuition fee, as well as classes. In one article, I read that students may take 6 years to complete undergraduate instead of 4.5 years (norm)
-quarter system, thus quick paced classes.
-easier access to korean food!
-my BEST friend since gr.8 got into the same school,and she prob will attend ucsd</p>
<p>overall, I want to have a very stimulating experience for undergrad. As for psychology major, both universities rank about the same for the major... and I'd have to pay about the same amount of money for tuition/ other expenses.. (UCSD a bit more $ by 4,000) Please offer some suggestions. it would be greatly appreciated!</p>