I'm considering applying to UC San Diego, but I'm confused about which college within the university is best for computer science. Which one should I aim for if I want the best classes and opportunities?
The UC San Diego colleges system can certainly be a bit confusing at first! UC San Diego's colleges don't correspond to specific academic programs or majors. Instead, they have unique general education requirements, student services, and housing. Therefore, your choice of major (in this case, Computer Science) does not affect which college you attend, and vice versa. The Jacobs School of Engineering is the entity that houses the Computer Science and Engineering Department, regardless of which college you are in.
In terms of deciding which college to select, you'll want to consider the general education requirements and community ethos of each, as those will have a significant impact on your undergraduate experience. For instance, if you are interested in a Human-Centered Approach to Technology, you might find Sixth College appealing because their general education requirements align with that theme. Contrarily, if you prefer a classic, humanities-focused education, you might lean towards Revelle College.
Essentially, all colleges at UC San Diego provide equally great opportunities for Computer Science students in terms of coursework, research, and internships. Research the ethos and gen-ed requirements of each college so you find the best fit for you outside of your major-specific classes. Your choice should be based on your personal preferences and educational ideals, not your major!
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