UC San Diego vs University of Washington - which one to choose?

Okay, so I've been really stressing about my uni choices. UCSD and UW are two schools that got my interest. I don’t know which one to choose. If anyone has attended either one or both, could you share some experiences? Academics, student life, location, internship opportunities? It will help me loads to make a decision.

Congrats on having choices between these two fantastic schools! When it comes down to deciding which school is the best fit, you want to take into account your academic interests, your career goals, and the type of campus environment you want.

Academically, both UC San Diego (UCSD) and University of Washington (UW) are known for their strong programs across various disciplines. It's good to look at the strengths of the departments in your intended major. For instance, UCSD has strong programs in biology, psychology, economics, and mathematics. On the other hand, UW is highly ranked in computer science, engineering, and business.

Student life differs at both schools. UCSD is divided into six residential colleges, each with a unique theme, and this has a large impact on student life and can foster smaller communities within the larger university. Also, UCSD is located in La Jolla, California which has beautiful beaches and sunny weather almost year around. Living in San Diego also provides opportunities for internships in biotech companies due to its location in the biotech hub.

UW, on the other hand, is located in Seattle, which is known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor activities. Though the weather can get rainy, the beautiful campus makes up for it. Seattle being a tech hub, offers vast opportunities for internships in companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing. The large Greek life presence at UW also tends to shape the social scene, so consider if that's something you'd enjoy.

Both schools provide ample opportunities for research and internships, but the opportunities might differ based on the industries prevalent in the respective cities. Hence, consider your long-term career goals while making a decision.

Remember, while all this information is important, the decision also depends on your personal preferences. Visit the campuses if possible or talk to current students or alumni to get a feel for the community, culture, and opportunities at both schools. Good luck with your decision!