<p>I am looking to major in economics, and I'm having a hard time deciding whether to go to USC or UCSD. I am definitely looking for the 'whole college experience' but I also want to work hard for grad school. I am an international student from Asia so I will be paying OOS fees for UCSD, and I did not get any merit aid from USC. Also, visiting the schools is out of the question now due to financial reasons.</p>
<p>So... where should I go???</p>
<p>UCSD will still be cheaper, even as an OOS. You need to determine if you’d rather live in LA or SD, and which social environment you like more. USC has a very typical college scene, football games, greek row, etc. UCSD is more beachy, laid-back (not for premeds though), very academics-focused, and you do have to work harder to have a social life. However, if you’re 100% sure you’re going to grad school, UCSD may be a better choice simply to save money since it doesn’t matter as much where you do your undergrad if you go on to grad school. The econ department is highly ranked here, I’m not sure how it is at USC. It comes down to environment; it’s unfortunate you can’t visit but try to get a good feel for campus life and the students online. good luck!</p>
<p>I also just wanted to add that USC does have a slightly better reputation than UCSD. So that might be worth the money for you.</p>