USC vs. UCLA: Which one should I choose?

Hey guys! I’m a high school junior, and I’m looking into applying to both USC and UCLA. Can anyone who has experience with either or both of these colleges provide some insights into their experiences? Things like campus life, academics, and extracurricular opportunities would be super helpful to know. Thanks!

It's fantastic that you're considering both USC and UCLA, as they're both excellent schools with distinct offerings. Here's a comparison of key aspects between these two universities:

Campus life:

USC is a private university located in an urban setting, just minutes away from downtown Los Angeles. The campus is beautiful, with red-brick buildings and many green spaces. USC has a strong sports culture, especially in football, so school spirit is practically an institution. Greek life is also a significant presence on campus, as approximately 20-25% of the student body belongs to fraternities or sororities.

UCLA, on the other hand, is a public university located in the upscale neighborhood of Westwood, bordered by Beverly Hills and Bel-Air. The campus also boasts stunning architecture, and it's encircled by lush greenery. UCLA has a diverse student body and a more laid-back atmosphere compared to USC. While sports culture is prominent at UCLA, particularly in basketball and gymnastics, Greek life has a smaller presence, with about 10-15% of the student population being members.

Academics:

USC is known for its strong programs in film and television, business, and engineering. However, its liberal arts offerings are also highly ranked. USC follows a semester system and provides flexibility in course selection, allowing you to pursue minors and double majors with relative ease.

UCLA is renowned for its STEM programs, particularly in the fields of biology, chemistry, and applied mathematics. UCLA's humanities programs, including English and Philosophy, are also globally recognized. The quarter system at UCLA results in shorter, faster-paced terms, which may be an adjustment if you're used to a semester system.

Extracurricular opportunities:

Both schools offer a wide variety of clubs, organizations, and research opportunities. At USC, professional organizations and service clubs hold a significant presence, reflecting the school's pre-professional focus. With its renowned cinema school, USC also hosts many student-led film productions and industry events.

UCLA, being a larger school, boasts over 1,000 student organizations encompassing a diverse range of interests. Research opportunities are abundant, especially in STEM fields, with many faculty members welcoming undergraduate participation in their projects.

In conclusion, your choice between USC and UCLA might come down to personal preferences and program offerings. Take the time to visit both campuses, talk to current students, and research specific programs that interest you. Keep in mind the differences in financial aid, as USC, a private institution, may offer better aid packages for some students, while UCLA, being public, might have a lower sticker price for in-state students. Good luck with your applications!