Current UCSC student, accepted to UCB and UCSD. I have worked hard the past two years at UCSC in preparation for a research position, did a spontaneous transfer application, and ended up getting these two new opportunities. However, I now have no idea which is the smartest choice: to accept UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, or to stay at UC Santa Cruz. Here are the details:
Future Plans:
-Graduate school for biotechnology, career in biomedical research.
Santa Cruz
-major: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
-GPA: 3.89
-Major Pro (why I consider staying): Have two potential research opportunities; already in the process of preparing for research beginning of junior year.
UCB
-Accepted to College of Letters & Science
-Would do MCB with Biochemistry & cell bio emphasis
UCSD
-Accepted with Biochemistry major
-College: Warren
All advice/testimonies/words-of-caution are greatly appreciated!
I’d say stay. You’ve gotten yourself into research opportunities and have a stronger network (I’d assume) at UCSC. At UCSD, there are definitely research positions to be had as well as in UCB, but why throw away possibly strong connections to be made? They can write your Rec Letters and you can get to do way more things.
I would pick UCSD if you decide to transfer.
Another point I wanted to bring up: at UCSC, your professors and researchers are familiar with what your coursework teaches you. Techniques and knowledge and such. At UCSD and UCB, you would have to explain, and then they don’t have as much experience with transfer students.
You have done great at UCSC and have the advantage of research work you might not get at Berkeley or San Diego. Finish your undergraduate degree there.
I’d say just stay as you have research opportunities in front of you. Going to a “better” school such as UCSD or UCB will not help you if you don’t get anything done there.
Stay at UCSC and continue doing your research.