Current UCSD student willing to try and answer people's questions

UCSDcompEng
Wed, 02 Apr 2014 21:54:18 +0000

I’m not a biology student, but I’ll try to answer based on what my friends tell me, I’ll also see if I can ask around.

From what I know, its not cut-throat because of competition. Everyone is struggling together, but no one is messing with each other to lower the curve… but everyone does joke about that happening. I think they mean cut-throat because it is difficult. Biology at any school requires lots of memorizing, and I know ochem aint no joke either. Also certain classes are based on a curve where up to a third of the class doesn’t pass. However, that tends to be only for a one or two “weeder” classes. You will find this to be the case at all renowned schools that offer pre-med.
All in all the program is very much doable and I know people who have succeeded while maintaining a social life. It will test you dedication though, and like any STEM major, sacrifices will have to be made and tears will be shed.

P.S. I didn’t know there were Yelp reviews for schools. I’m not surprised that you heard that there, because I tend to only use yelp when I’m bitter about something.