<p>Hey all. I just got accepted off of the wait list at Wash U and I was debating going there over my original school UCLA. Specifically, I was considering something science-y, i.e. engineering although I'm open to other possibilities and interests. Do you all have an objective opinion concerning this? My thoughts are:</p>
<p>Wash U
-Smaller
-More opportunities for undergraduate research because of small size
-No budget cuts (huge for me, really)
-Mostly doubles for dorms</p>
<p>UCLA
-Higher ranked in US News and Report for the engineering school
-More social, as I have understood it
-Perceived as more prestigious than Wash U</p>
<p>I seem to have my heart set on Wash U because it's small and that's what my intuition is telling me to do, but I can't really rationalize my choice. Any objective opinions on the matter?</p>
<p>lol, seriously, i would not say that ucla is more prestigious than washu… and judging the engineering programs by the us news reports is kinda…ehmmm… not cool. the social scene is all up to you in any school. </p>
<p>basically, if money is not the problem, go with washu…</p>
<p>To reiterate what ProNivel said… UCLA is in no way more “prestigious” than WashU. Either way once you enter the top 20 universities the general education becomes the same and your choice should revolve mostly on the environment at the schools. That being said, you seem to have very very solid reasons for wanting to choose WashU over UCLA (smaller, more research opportunities). If both choices are open to you I think you should follow your gut (WU).</p>
<p>Thanks for the speedy responses, everyone. I hope it’s not a problem that I asked this in the UCLA forum as well to eliminate or alleviate potential bias.</p>
<p>Thankfully, my parents say that money is of no object (though I’d like to lessen the burden in any way I can).</p>
<p>what are you talking about? WashU is really prestigous. a top school really. an education from there is comparable to ivies. so def WashU over UCLA anyday</p>