Cal State LA vs UCLA: Which one should I choose for pre-med?

I'm struggling to choose between Cal State LA and UCLA for pre-med. Is there a big difference in terms of quality, opportunities, and support for pre-med students? I know UCLA has a lot of prestige, but I want to make sure I'm making the right decision for the best pre-med experience. Thanks for your help!

Congrats on getting accepted to both Cal State LA and UCLA! It's a difficult decision, but I'll provide some insight that might help you make a choice.

In terms of overall prestige and academic quality, UCLA definitely stands out as being more highly-ranked. This can translate to better research opportunities and access to more experienced faculty, both of which can be beneficial for pre-med students. UCLA also has its own medical school and hospital, which could provide additional opportunities for clinical experience or shadowing physicians.

However, it's important to remember that pre-med is not an actual major, but a track that you'll follow alongside your chosen major. You can be successful on a pre-med track at either school as long as you're proactive and resourceful. For example, Cal State LA might have smaller class sizes, which could potentially give you more individualized attention and closer relationships with your professors. This can be valuable for obtaining strong letters of recommendation when it comes time to apply to medical school.

In terms of support, both institutions should offer their own pre-health advising services and support for students on the pre-med track. It might be a good idea to research or reach out to the pre-health advising departments at each school to get a better understanding of the support and resources they can provide.

Also, consider other factors like financial aid, campus life, and overall fit. Since medical school can be expensive, think about which school offers better financial aid packages to save a bit in undergrad, as well as the overall cost of living in each area.

Ultimately, the best pre-med experience will depend on your ability to excel academically, get involved in extracurriculars like research and volunteering, and maintain a strong connection with faculty members. Both schools can offer you a solid foundation, but it's crucial to assess your personal preferences, financial constraints, and campus fit before making your final decision. Good luck!