<p>UCBAlumnus,</p>
<p>There are many great programs at or state schools. And yes, after freshman year, there is a huge drop-off, which leaves the brighter kids with their more committed peers.</p>
<p>My comment was not to “diss” the programs, but rather to comment on the behavior and attitudes of high-performing students. They tend to apply in-state early and see the Honors programs as a way of distinguishing themselves from their less academic peers, who will also receive acceptances to the universities. They figure that the HC designation will help later, which it may, depending on the program. </p>