<p>I remember from freshman to senior year the only goal I had in life was to go to MIT. Senior year I got accepted early there and my "second" choice: Caltech. I didn't immediately accept MIT because I thought I should at least give Caltech a chance... A year later I sit here writing this in my Caltech dorm. I don't know exactly why I chose to do this, but I really feel students need to see a better picture of Caltech.</p>
<p>FIRST: Caltech is not an ivy-league, it is not MIT. Caltech is a place you come to become a leader in whatever scientific field you enjoy. It will kick your @$$, it is hard, it is the hardest school in the US (maybe exception to MIT depending on your preference).</p>
<p>SECOND: Don't worry about getting in here. Apply and find out, apply even if its not a top 10 choice. Worry about coming here if you get in.</p>
<p>THIRD: Visit campus!!! No website or person can really give you an accurate view of Caltech.</p>
<p>FOURTH: The House System is the most important thing here, hands down. You have awesome research opportunities as well as great classes and profs, but that isn't as important as the houses. Houses make up everything here. Houses are your family (at least most are), and there is a house to fit everyone. When you visit, see EVERY house. do not base an opinion of Caltech based on any less than ALL houses. Also, meet many people in every house. Do not take what people say about the house, though, people <em>sometimes</em> lie about their houses to get people to like them. Base your opinion of the house on stories and personalities of the people more. Which reminds me, ask about stories!</p>
<p>FIFTH: Caltech is not some super antisocial place. People here are very social, we do work together, hang out, have parties every week, do CRAZY things, and generally interact with others on a regular basis. There are times you will sit in your room doing work for hours and stay up long hours, though (you should be prepared for this). But its not too overbearing and you always have people to help you out. The people here are AMAZING, you will make many great friends here since most everyone is intelligent and interesting. If you don't believe me, VISIT.</p>
<p>I hope other techers agree with me on this...</p>
<p>Anyways, I hope this helps your decision to APPLY to Caltech this year. I love this place with all my heart :D</p>