UCI vs SDSU??

1Dreamer
Fri, 17 Mar 2017 21:18:04 +0000

Well, I would say it depends on what you’re looking for. Have you visited either? I’d highly recommend it if possible. They have very different vibes and you may instantly feel one is a better fit over the other. Which major do you prefer? I don’t think it’s going to be easy to change your major at either school, so I think that should be your first consideration.

I’m sure you are already aware that UCI is a very well regarded UC, and for good reason, but if you are looking for school spirit, you may be disappointed. It’s in a suburban area, and it has more local commuters than many of the other UCs. I’ve heard some say it empties out on weekends and there isn’t much to do, but I really don’t know. I had a friend who went there and I never heard him complain about it at the time. He enjoyed it and went on to med school from there, but met his wife-to-be at UCI who was a pharmacy major and had no problem finding a job as a pharmacist, so there’s that.

SDSU is one of the best schools in the CSU system in terms of academics. IMO, it’s second only to Cal Poly SLO which is in a league of its own in the CSU system. While most CSUs are considered commuter schools, SDSU is one of the few that isn’t, although it may have more than most UCs. It has much more school spirit than UCI, and more than any other CSU I can think of. And (obviously) it is in San Diego which is a great city. People I know who live in San Diego consider it paradise and never want to leave.

Both great schools, though. Again, think about which major you prefer, and if you have a chance to visit, do. I’m sure the “winner” will become clear. Congrats on your acceptances, and best of luck.