The University of California San Diego

Date: Sep 08 2004
Major: Computer Science (This Major's Salary over time)
First of all, I chose UCSD primarily because of location and campus environment. The air is clean, the grounds are well kept. Of course, you pay a premium for it when you decide to live off campus (rent). The people are decidedly chill and the atmosphere is much more laid back than the hustle of LA. The roads are wider, and there are better drivers here. And if you like the beach and the expanse of area compared to LA, UCSD is a good bet.

The engineering program is rather strong. However, most classes focus strictly on theory and are non-existent in real world application (which seem to conflict with the student make-up, which are mostly economically minded individuals). You will not leave prepared with any sort of real-world skillset. I can count on one hand the number of classes that benefitted my professional life. You will need some initiative. However, due to my laziness in developing relationships and network, I took advantage of the career center and was able to land several internships and a job right out of college without any real effort.

The six college setup helps to vary an otherwise tame campus. You feel like you're stepping onto new territory every time you leave one and enter another. I was in Muir, whose building exterior and dorm room interiors are reminiscent of prison cells. Classes are massive, you have to be a standout to stand out. Not smart per se, but get involved. Personally, it was easy for me to do well enough with just some light studying. Engineering assignments are contrived and straightforward. I never felt any academic pressure. I spent more time aimlessly at the beach, day and night, and will be something I miss whenever I move out of La Jolla.

There are a few nice restaurants and shops directly outside campus. It quickly gets boring. The food gets boring, but gets better as you explore the outlying suburban areas. There is also nightlife downtown. For all this, you will need a car. Social life is next to nil if you don't pursue it.

Overall, I would say UCSD is a good school, but nothing extraordinary comes to mind. There is a lack of school pride, due to lack of any sports program. Everyone sticks to their own. Basically, you come here to study and take a break whenever you can.