Review of University of California-San Diego

As a pre-medical student who chose to major in the biological sciences, I chose UCSD because the opportunities here are unparalleled. Research opportunities with faculty members are ample as we have an affiliated medical school on campus (and a few hospitals). There are also plenty of internships for students to apply for.

The academics are challenging and rigorous, but you will get your money's worth! You will learn so much during your time here- be it in or out of the classroom.

I also had the chance to study abroad in Asia for a semester and was awarded MANY scholarships. UCSD's financial aid office works really hard to ensure students have the resources necessary to pursue any endeavor that we choose.

When you're feeling stressed out, the beach is just a few minutes away! Located in Southern California, the weather is amazing year round.

Also, we have a lot of events that are free to students: festivals/ concerts, talks from the medical students across campus, presentations by nobel laureates in varying specialty fields, etc. Tip: make sure you attend the Sun God festivities!!

Due to state budgets, tuition has increased 40% and a lot of resources (libraries, small class size, professors' office hours) are cut back tremendously. This is why I rated UCSD as average in regards to "worth the money", it is quite pricey for a public university.

I remember parking being HORRIBLE and parking spots for students are continually being eliminated, yet parking permit prices keep increasing from year to year.

A lot of students complain that the social life/ greek life is lacking, however I find it varies from person to person. I had PLENTY of fun and met a lot of great people, but it didn't just come to me. I had to join clubs, go to professional societies, sign up for internships, etc. Like anything in life, you get what you put into it.

Also, UCSD is known for churning out students who end up going on to graduate schools. Needless to say, competition in class for the top grades (that elusive A) can be pretty stressful.

Yes, Knowing what I know and despite the rise in tuition, I would still choose UCSD in a heartbeat. I have met so many great professors who mentored me along the way, made a lot of great friends with many unforgettable memories, and all the while learning so much about my major (biology) in the process.

My only regret was not double majoring in biology and ethnic studies. I LOVED my ethnic studies/ international studies courses.

Biggest influence when choosing this school Location

The financial aid process went smoothly and I received the financial aid I needed.

Professors are generally Experts

The night life is Off Campus

Every student at this school needs A laptop

Went to Kearny High School

You might also consider UCLA, University of California-Merced, SDSU, UCI

Favorite class is Mammalian Physiology

Favorite activity is Farmers Market

Another awesome thing is A lot of resources in regards to applying for graduate schools

Study Hard? Pray? Donate Money? Do a lot of extracurricular activities to stand out from the thousands of qualified applicants

I wish I knew Muir College and Warren College have the easiest GE requirements; Revelle College and Marshall College have the most!

Time needed to find a job post-graduation I found work before I graduated