<p>One of my daughters was faced with the same choice two years ago. UCSD or a great LAC. She did what all students (especially in-state should do), she went to UCSD for two days. She sat in on classes and hung out with friends at night. After two nights, she knew. Came home and said she did not want to attend such a large university. She wanted a more “personal” experience. She was dismayed by the class sizes, lack of housing, and vast number of people. She opted for the lac and is so happy. She has visited friends at UCSD on a few trips home and says she has not regrets whatsoever. Daughter #2 saw her sister’s experiences and did not even apply to any UC’s. She too opted for a Northeast lac, and is a fantastically happy freshman. </p>
<p>Another consideration for them was the experience of living on the opposite coast for 4 years. They come home holidays and summers, and we visit them once or twice a year. Your daughter has to decide what she wants but I don’t feel that it is a decision she can make unless she spends time at each school. Good luck to you and your d.</p>