UCLA vs. UW...help!

caseyatbat
Sun, 12 Apr 2009 14:26:54 +0000

As a UW alum (so understand the bias), someone who lived in LA for almost 20 years, and whose kids debated this same issue, I think sumzup does a good job.
A couple other points that haven’t been mentioned:
IF you are thinking of going Greek, I think UW has a much stronger, healthier, system. Location is perfect-adjacent to campus. Sororities and frats are intermixed, which makes for easy access and consistent opportunity for friendship. There are always huge numbers of girls and guys walking to class, visiting, doing projects, etc., Greek system is very laid back/casual. At UCLA, the frats are on one side of campus and sororities the other. I always thought that was odd. D’s girlfriends have had some bad experiences within Greek system there…but I don’t know enough to make sweeping statement.
Without trying to disparage the types of kids at UCLA, I think that the UW just seems to draw an exceptionally well rounded type of student. Down to earth, serious about studies but able and willing to enjoy balancing all aspects of growing up. That said, you will find all kinds of people both places-and, you will find your niche.
Last thing…Seattle is an amazing city. Easy to access, easy to get around, loads of restaurants, music, sports, arts. People friendly, incredibly beautiful and nearby. I could never say the same for LA----though those beaches can’t be beat.

Oh yeah-totally disagree with mini re: getting thru in 4 years. It may be the way of the future at many of our publics, and UW (just like the UC’s) is looking at very challenging times. I could name 100 kids who made it thru in 4 years…and one who didn’t. (my son…changing major Sr. year didn’t help. Still can’t believe they let him do that). Most kids who take longer are not utilizing advisers, using good judgment, and/or developing a plan soon enough.

Oh…last thing! My son’s best memories of his FIVE years there…walking to football games with 75K people dressed in purple/gold. No football stadium at UCLA? They need to fix that…

Good luck-both schools are great.