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Current Student from San Diego Area
07/08/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
69 out of 71 people found this review useful. 1 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students This school definitely provides a great study environment. If you are looking for a crazy party school, this isn't for you. UCSD does have its fair share of parties, and not everyone is a social retard, so don't buy into the stereotypes and come visit for yourself! (I knew I wanted to attend the minute I walked on campus: many pros such as super close beach, great people, some great teachers - others not so much so ask around before picking classes or go to ratemyprofessors.com). We have a ton of extracurricular activities and clubs available, so its easy to keep yourself involved and meeting people through these is also rewarding. I'd like to recommend Ultimate Frisbee for a great time :)
Tips for prospective students The 6 college system may seem daunting at first, which one will be best for you? Definitely read up on the colleges' general ed class requirements and your major requirements, some will match up perfectly and will be convenient. I, on the other hand, did not do this. I'm an engineering major in Thurgood Marshall College (which is geared toward humanities) so I'm taking many classes that will only make my stay at UCSD longer. Nonetheless I've made the most of my situation and am enjoying myself. Also look into financial aid, because I've had my need almost completely met each year, and they are always a big help. Oh and if living on campus: bring a bike, the campus is HUGE.
Bang for the buck Although its cheaper to get general classes out of the way at a community college first, I feel like I would have really missed out on the transitioning with other freshman on campus. It is a learning experience that takes living in the dorms and struggling to get priorities in order with others at the same time. Its totally worth it, in my opinion :)
Am enjoying being here I do feel the 6 college system is sometimes a burden when I have friends in other colleges. It makes it difficult to meet up as often as I'd like, but I manage. You will meet a ton of diverse people from different backgrounds, and there is always something fun to do as long as you keep your mind open and actually attend events. Don't forget to look online at the cheap concerts that UCSD holds every so often. The Loft usually has some pretty good ones!
Am learning a lot Teachers can be great, but you must go to class to actually learn. I never thought I'd be skipping classes, but it happens and I learned the hard way that this is NOT smart. Discussions with TAs can be incredibly helpful as well. I had a math class where I learned more from the TA than I did from the Professor, so it definitely helps to go to both to become a successful student at UCSD.
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Sidney from Menifee, CA
02/01/2010Reviewer is A current student here.
36 out of 37 people found this review useful. 2 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students who like to get the most out of education and life itself and want to be happy and feel at home in a great community. Nothing comes easy, but if you work hard enough, this university can definitely help you out!
Tips for prospective students Definitely tour the campus, and if you have an interest APPLY!!!! Utilize the resources this school has to offer. There are plenty of tools and opportunities, no excuses to not be having the time of your life in all respects!
Bang for the buck With all I've said so far, I would hope that you would feel like you get your bang for the buck. Personally, I was astonished at how easily I transitioned into the college life, and that in itself is worth it to me. The life experiences I will gain here could not be duplicated anywhere else. Besides, who isn't in debt these days, and isn't that why we go to college in the first place? To make money to pay off our debts? That's what loans and scholarships are for. So one of the reasons I feel like UCSD is worth the pain of reaching deep into our wallets is HELLO! it's one of the top research institutes in the nation!!! We have multiple Nobel Prize winners just walking around the campus everyday. We are one of the top nationally funded research schools and you should definitely take advantage of that! Personally, within the third week of my Fall freshman quarter, I had a lab training position where I got PAID to learn how to work in a lab, and by Spring quarter, I will be helping a PhD with his graduate level research!! Where else can you get such hands-on experience. San Diego is such a diverse city, culturally and scientifically, it is rich with job opportunities, so what better way to get a head start than in La Jolla! Port Triton (our mascot is King Triton) is a useful site that can help you with your resume and applying for jobs, and don't worry, if research isn't your thing, there are other jobs too =) So doing the research isn't the only cool thing here, you can also be a SUBJECT by participating in research studies. Because there are so many studies going on, they are desperately looking for college students' help! And more often than not, this means COLD, HARD CASH in your pocket! A friend of mine got 90 buckaroos for answering some questions about how she doesn't smoke cigarettes! Like a forty minute interview, and a couple of short surveys, and BAM! If that isn't as easy as it gets, then I don't know what is! There is also the beautiful SCRIPPS institute. If you come to UCSD, definitely check it out sometime. When our legendary, Geisel Library gets crowded during finals week you can go to the SCRIPPS library and get a balcony facing the ocean with your friends, something about watching the water while you study is just pure amazement. So a couple of things I might note are that in some resident halls Internet can be rather laggy so sometimes you move around or go to the lounge on your floor for better access (oh ya, at least in Warren College, each floor of the dorms has its own study lounge). And the second is the pricey food. So when you pay your tuition, you pay a certain amount of money to be put on your card called dining dollars. It is a VERY convenient means of paying for you meals, snacks and other non-food related items at the convenience store from curling irons to foil. However, you'll find that basically everything is probably double what it should cost (i.e.- a loaf of bread being nearly 6 bucks). So while you really don't feel the pain of paying for it because it is a prepaid card that you just swipe, it is frustrating to think how much we pay in our tuition for it. I've heard rumors of people running out of money, but I'll tell you, my suitemates and I have more than enough dining dollars. A lot of times we use our abundance of cash for decorations for the dorms and other fun stuff. Overall I definitely do prefer our system over others. Our cards can be used to eat at any of the dining halls. You can put money in a separate account on the card for other food places like the frozen yogurt shop, or for the laundry rooms. I know other UC's use a different method, like you get a certain amount of meals per week not money to spend yourself. And if you don't use those meals you can't save them up or anything to buy something else later.
Am enjoying being here I am not just enjoying being here, I am LOVING it!!! What can I say, I instantly fell in love with the campus when I toured it. It's a given that the SD weather is always perfect, no more needs to be said about that. Being here just makes me happy. The vibe you get from everyone is just so amazing. It makes me sad to see spirit lacking in some people, I don't think they realize what a great school UCSD is. However, you can definitely find that spirit if you look. Plus, there is some SERIOUS TALK about us turning all our sports teams into Division I, and a possibility of a Division I football team. Both of these are going on the ballot next year, and you can bet this will definitely come with some spirit, major! Join clubs! No matter who you are there is an organization for you!! There is truly a nice balance between academics and the other important college stuff, like being socially involved and and taking a part in the community. The college sends out student event fliers to let us know what's going on around the campus which is really helpful in deciding what you're going to do if you're feeling a little antsy. There are plenty of dances strategically planned around midterms and what not to provide a little extra entertainment. La Jolla is a beautiful area too, so a beach trip is never out of the question. One of my favorite things last quarter that we did was walk out to the beach (like a 20 minute walk depending where on campus you are-we were on the farthest side). It was like midnight when we left, it was so much fun walking out in the middle of the night together. We went to the cliffs where it was dark and you could hear the waves crashing. That night there was a GORGEOUS meteor shower. It was the perfect location, HUGE bright streaks filled the sky, I'll never forget that night. I would definitely say your college experience is what you make of it. If you want to have fun, trust me you will. Perhaps one of the greater things about UCSD is the 6-college system. Going to a huge university can definitely be overwhelming, however what is unique about our school is that it has six smaller campuses divided up within the university. Each has its own motto and general ed requirements (do a little research before applying). So you sleep in the dorms at your college (which I highly recommend living ON campus, by the way), however, you go to class throughout the school. What this does, is provide an opportunity for a little more intimacy within each campus. You get to know the people around you a lot easier, and you share something in common with them. And a lot of the time, each college has particular majors that gravitate toward it (mostly because of the gen ed requirements). There is some friendly competition among the six colleges too. Spirit Week is a blast during winter quarter when each campus tries to rack up as many points as possible in showing school spirit. Side note: go to the games, there lots of fun! The other cool thing is that each campus has it's own dining hall and convenience store. Goody's (best burritos ever) is open until 1am and so is foodworks (make your own pizzas) the rest of the dining halls close at about 8pm. And the convenience stores are open until the convenient hour of 1am (when me and my suitemates find we most often need those last minute study snacks). The gym...well, quite frankly, I love it. RIMAC to be precise. It is a massive gym with the most beautiful locker room you ever did lay eyes on. There are plenty of elliptical machines (my personal favorite) and lots of racquetball courts. Along with the usual gym stuff. There are lots of recreational classes offered there (unfortunately you have to pay), but lots of clubs utilize the gym for free too (i.e.-dance). We have an indoor pool in Main Gym and I've seen a jacuzzi, but never anyone in it. If you have any religious affiliation, there are plenty of clubs to enhance your spirtuality too. We have cute cafes and a 24 hour library CLICS during finals week. UCSD definitely provides the tools for a well balanced life outside of school work =)
Am learning a lot UCSD provides excellent professors to optimize learning for its students...for the most part anyway. Like any other school, it has it's off professors, but for the most part, all of my professors have been very enthusiastic and passionate about what they are teaching. Class sizes are very LARGE. My chemistry class for example has over 400 people in it. However, discussions are very helpful and offer a little more intimacy. I would highly encourage you to attend them! Try to get to know your TA, it can help when you have to take quizzes and whatnot and they are on-the-fence on how to grade a particular problem. In addition there are several very helpful, FREE tutoring services such as OASIS (for lower division classes) and others for upper division classes, which is very beneficial. Another thing I've found helpful are the Chem Help Room and Calc Lab, two centers that offer a lot of help for those darn general ed classes, that may be tough for students like myself. There are also plenty of students who know what they are doing trying to tutor for cash if you don't mind paying. I definitely feel like the professors and faculty here want to see me succeed. The students here are crazy smart so there can be a lot of competition, however it is not impossible to get an A in most classes if you put in the effort. Professors like Christina Johnson, who teaches Gen Chem, are absolutely AMAZING and show the deepest concern for their student's success. I particularly recommend taking her if you need to take the Chem 6 series.
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07/31/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
12 out of 12 people found this review useful. 3 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students As I've mentioned earlier, UCSD is a large research university. Although exceptionally good at catering to all sorts of students, students with a particular interest in research, the sciences, or Humanities will find that this university is especially outstanding in those areas -- the reason being that UCSD is such a powerful, powerful university in the sciences and arts. In addition, students pursuing graduate or professional degrees will also enjoy the large number of opportunities for involvement with their particular field of interest as well as the numerous faculty members that are available to aid with the process.
Tips for prospective students The most important thing is to communicate with your counselor and ensure all of the transcripts, financial aid applications, and other sorts of paperwork are submitted before the deadline to avoid future headaches. In addition, those interested in impacted areas of study (e.g. the entire biology department) should prepare to submit an additional application for the consideration of matriculation into their intended major. Those who are still undecided, no worries -- you will have plenty of time (until spring quarter of the second year) to declare you intended major. Also, visit the campus to get a feel of what it's like to study at the university. Once accepted, be sure to get involved with the campus and the community through on or off-campus organizations the experience is very rewarding both in terms of service to the community and personal fulfillment or future career preparation. In addition, since UCSD operates on the quarter system, classes move incredibly fast. Before you know it, you will be taking your first midterm. A particularly useful strategy is to push hard during the first couple of weeks and then ease off afterwards; and, go to the library! The result is a high level of academic achievement in the beginning that will give you the momentum you need to finish off the quarter strong. Above all, remember that even though you are in a competitive university with even more competitive peers competing for highly competitive degrees in order to matriculate into competitive careers or graduate schools, take a break once in a while and grab coffee, run out to the cliffs and watch the sunset, or just have some pain old fun. If these years are truly our best, then it's equally important to enjoy ourselves and make the most of our college experience.
Bang for the buck As for quality of education as well as housing, the university offers it at a very reasonable price. In fact, nearly all of the mandatory fees paid towards to university are reasonable with much of it coming back to benefit the student in the forms of organizations, additional programming, and rock concerts. For instance, gym membership and access to all other recreational facilities are guaranteed to the student at prices that are quite reasonable as compared to other campuses. In addition, after the student activity fee referendum ran by the ASUCSD passed last year, entering students will not see another fee increase for four years. The only place that students will have difficulty in handling financially is dining. This is partly because Housing and Dining is not under the direct jurisdiction of the campus but is rather an affiliated business operating within UCSD. In terms of business, then, there is a certain amount of profiteering is expected. The most troubling thing is the allocation of two meals a day (or eleven dollars) and the separate food items contributing towards a full meal costing sixteen dollars in total. The result is many students not being able to eat a full meal (that is, an entrée, drink, and a dessert) and running out of dining dollars early; the dining halls do not operate buffet style. Moreover, certain dining halls such as Plaza Café in Revelle College frequently run out of items towards the end of the academic year and occasionally have slight issues with hygiene such as having fruit flies in the salad bar. However, that is not to say that there is not quality food on campus. Most other dining halls offer quality food and, even for Plaza Café, the issue of insanitation is only an occasional problem.
Am enjoying being here Absolutely, UCSD is, by far, a place to be enjoyed. The integrated six-college system in this rather large campus caters to both students wanting the large campus experience or a small-town college feel. Regardless, the six-college system (especially for incoming freshman) creates a sense of community helping to create a very positive atmosphere where students learn, work, or even pass around the Frisbee. Moreover, the campus infrastructure and location offers the convenience of providing everything a student needs at a high level of quality -- work, food, or a good wave at the beach before a Friday-night get party -- right at one's fingertips. UCSD is, then, the perfect place to be, right? Not quite. You see, there are a few problems one would encounter here, especially if one is looking for school spirit. With the absence of a football team and an incredible drive for academic excellence from a majority of the students (which isn't a bad thing at all), UCSD pride does suffer a bit. However, that isn't to say there is no spirit at all as evident in the number of events held by the athletics department as well as student organizations to promote school spirit. Overall, then, UCSD is a great place to be.
Am learning a lot Overall, the quality of UCSD's education system is exceptional. By offering a large variety of classes and majors, one will definitely find a specific major with classes oriented for the individual or have the privilege to sample everything that is out there. In addition, the majority of the professors (especially those teaching in upper division courses) are outstanding, taking a keen interest in the success of a student not only in the course but also in the student developing into a complete scholar. Furthermore, class structure and content are usually engaging, which helps a great deal with the learning process. However, there are a few minor issues. If one wishes to participate in additional educational programs such as a class for Emergency Medical Technicians or perhaps have a taste of the military life, this is a campus that offers no such services. But aside from this minute inadequacy, this is undoubtedly a university that will teach the necessary knowledge and skills for success.
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08/26/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
10 out of 10 people found this review useful. 4 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students People who are truly committed to growing as leaders, learning as much as possible, and being involved through the countless organizations. People say that UCSD is boring and anti social, but folks, the truth is the total opposite. First quarter I admit that I was pretty lonely with nothing much to do, but I got involved in organizations and in my phage course and things changed a lot. Like I mentioned before I love to dance so I joined the Folklorico club. I also wanted to do a sport so I joined Women's Crew. UCSD is a great place for meeting those who share so so much in common with you while having tons of fun at the same time. I'd say UCSD truly defines what the ultimate college experience should be, one just has to open the doors.
Tips for prospective students Ok so first things first, check out all the colleges! Before picking your top 3 do your research. You don't want to be taking classes that don't really interest you or those you think won't interest you. I'm in Muir College and I picked it for its Environmental Theme, thus my major Environmental Systems, Chemistry. I like that it is also the college closest to the beach and with the most beautiful view of the ocean. I like the intimacy and comfort that it brings and the convenience of the main gym next door. But in terms of the general education classes, they are the most flexible so if you want to double major or major and minor then there should be no problem, in my opinion. Choose the right college for the right focus. ERC focuses on international studies and like studies, Revelle focuses on science for the most part, if you want to be an engineer choose Warren. Now for other things, bring a bicycle, or if you skate, bring a skateboard. The campus is pretty large and unless you want to speed walk like I had to do the entire winter quarter, bring some mode of transportation. Bring a little refrigerator if you are living in the residential areas. The apartments already have a fridge, but the residential dorms do not. If you are going to be living in a triple a mini refrigerator is essential. It'll make your life easier; it made my life a lot easier. Go to class! There is not point in skipping class, what else are you going to do! Unless it's SunGod then you have no excuse. Or if you have an 8 am class and it's already spring quarter, then maybe I'll cut you some slack. But seriously go to lecture and office hours and discussion. You might have a question to ask and it is very important to get it answered so you won't fall behind.
Bang for the buck Yes, the financial issue is getting tougher each year and this year I find myself getting a larger loan than the one I did last year. I predict that for the years to come those loans will get larger. To save money I did take my social sciences classes at a community college this summer. I am nearly finished with my general education classes and am looking forward to taking courses for my major this next fall. I am big on money saving and always find ways to do things economically but nonetheless I value my education very highly. Of course college is expensive but UCSD is the best choice for me because of my interests in career choices and because of the vast amount of educational opportunities offered. Yes, I worry about how much money I'll owe once I graduate but one must look for scholarships, grants, and other forms of aid. Though I must say I've been blessed with the amount I've received both this year and last. If you got in already don't give up this grand opportunity, trust me, you will not regret accepting.
Am enjoying being here UCSD is a particular place where one gets what one wants. In other words if you want to join a sorority or fraternity then you can, and with it all the good stuff that you want, if you know what I mean. If you want to live a calm, relaxed life, then you can as well. One makes college what one wants. There are organizations that will appeal to everyone and the more one is involved the happier one lives. The social climate is quite peaceful; for some it's boring, but for others it is perfect. When one wants to study without having to be interrupted then one has no problem in doing so. We have to find where all the commotion is. I personally love to dance, and close by there is Tango Del Rey for 18 and over. I went for the Folklorico Social and fell in love with it. For those who appreciate ethnic music and dance, this is the place to go and it is only about 10 minuates away from campus. And I restate that you just have to look for it. But the good thing is that if you want to have fun, there is no problem looking for it. And when you want to study and focus, there is no problem either. It's that simple.
Am learning a lot I applied for the Phage Genomics Initiative Course offered to only freshman, while I was still a senior. Those of you who are enrolled in this freshman research class should be stoked because it is truly an exciting class to take. It opened my eyes to the much needed research in not only microbiology but other science fields as well. I learned about electron microscopy and about different dna annotating programs. It was truly a once in a life time experience and it further encouraged me to pursue my goal of becoming a researcher. I pretty much only took math and chem courses my freshman year. I learned a lot not only in lecture, but from the TA office hours and Professor office hours. I also took advantage of the Summer Bridge Program and Academic Transition Program which extended throughout the whole year. Here I took math and chemistry workshops in addition to going to lecture and discussion. There are tutors available even if one is not enrolled in the workshops. These workshops are like extra classes and are two hours long two times a week, so you can see that I was very busy. The truth is one is going to need help some day and if studying with your best friend isn't going to get you anywhere go to OASIS which is located in Center Hall third floor and go early because spaces fill up fast! I don't want to scare you but in these tough times one must know in advance what field one wants to focus on. I personally don't like wasting time switching majors from one field to an entirely different one where the classes won't overlap or transfer to the new major. That's money and time we're talking about and if you are completely clueless on what you want to major in, go to the Career Services Center as early as possible for tips and help on choosing the right field.
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Rose from San Francisco,CA
12/31/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
8 out of 8 people found this review useful. 5 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students UCSD is great for students who are academically motivated because you will find that academics are a major topic of discussion. Students who wish to pursue a career in the sciences will flourish at UCSD because around every corner you will find a multitude of opportunities – research, internships, volunteering, and etc. – to participate in the field they are interested in. Unfortunately for students who imagined themselves at a school with a vibrant sports culture, you will not find it at UCSD because UCSD does not have a football team and does not participate in division I athletics. In spite of that, UCSD does offer comprehensive college experience; you will find yourself academically challenged and opening up to new experiences. And at what school, other than UCSD, can you find sun, sand, and surf all rolled into one?
Tips for prospective students Definitely research the 6 colleges before you rank them on the application. Each college has a different theme and general education requirements. A lot of students randomly rank the colleges and may end up at a college that does not fit their needs/personality – don't let this happen to you! Also, check to see if your intended major is impacted because if it is you should declare it on the application. An impacted major status (e.g. the biology department) means that you would have to competitively apply into the department after you've finished all your lower division classes for that major, and you still may not get in (yikes!). Moreover, be prepared for a fast learning environment because UCSD uses the quarter system. The advantage of this system is that classes you don't like - and those you do - will be over before you know it, but that also means that you need to stay on top of your work or risk falling behind. UCSD does offer academic help at every corner: there are always professor and TA office hours, OASIS (it's like taking another class on that subject but in a small group environment), labs (for math and chemistry where you can get questions answered), and you can always form your own study groups. And remember, college is supposed to be fun! Work hard so you can play hard!
Bang for the buck This was my compromise school because what it came down to was money. I was leaning towards a private institution which would have cost around $40,000+ a year! I did receive financial aid (I'm speaking of financial aid in terms of money I don't need to pay back) from that school but it wasn't enough to compare to the price of a UC school, which did not offer me financial aid. Comparing the two schools, the value of the education at UCSD was on par with that of the private institution and for half the price! But be weary, the UC Regents recently voted for a 32% fee increase, which in the near future (~2-3 yrs.) will mean you are paying more for less resources, so remember to do the math!
Am enjoying being here There is a stereotype about UCSD that makes the school appear anti-social. I'm not going to lie, sometimes it's true, but really it's what you make of it. UCSD is by no means a party school, but if you make an effort to meet other people and participate in events, then you'll have fun. Otherwise, you can hang out in your room with your (possibly neglected) homework. Even the design of the 6 college system helps you meet people; you get the feeling of a small community within a much larger one. Instead of trying to meet thousands of freshmen at once, you're already grouped up with a few hundred which makes it easier to meet and remember people. And here are some things I love most about UCSD in no particular order: the awesome concerts (not only are they cheap, sometimes they're free!), sunset or meteor shower at the Cliffs (magical), the lifelong friends I've made (priceless), the weather (it's like summer year-round!), the burritos at Goody's (yum!), and $3 movies.
Am learning a lot Keep in mind that UCSD is a major research university and some professors are more focused on their research than in teaching. However, you will also encounter some professors who are both enthusiastic about teaching and their research. Unfortunately, many undergraduate classes are large and impersonal. Classes are divided into lecture and discussion where discussion is led by a TA (a graduate student). Personally, I am not a fan of this class structure because I just don't agree that graduate students should be teaching so much. This is not to say all TAs are bad, a few of them are even better than the professor!
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Ronald from San Diego, CA
07/15/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
5 out of 5 people found this review useful. 6 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students So many of my friends were pre-med students, and I myself am now going into pharmacological chemistry, so it is great for anyone interested in the natural sciences. The whole campus is surrounded by bio-tech industries and many different jobs that are offered are laboratory position. The different colleges all have different focuses and are also stereotyped all differently too. There is only one big party during the year, but there are always smaller ones at the end of the week, but most of the focus seems to be on academics (especially the pre-meds).
Tips for prospective students As for all colleges, it is important to talk to a counselor early. I made the mistake of waiting until my third quarter to find the degree that I really wanted to get into and now I have to take an entirely different math series. Another thing I found that I really liked was joining a group, even though it took me a long time to find one. I am usually a very shy person, but once I joined I found that I really liked everyone there that I was in contact with. I found that I really liked being able to ride my bike even when it was just for a ride. I was also able to share my bike with my friends. Its also really nice when you have to go across campus or don't want to walk when you have a few hours between classes. Study groups are nice especially with roommates or suite mates because they usually have good insights and can collaborate with everyone else.
Bang for the buck The education is really good and not a bad price for California students. The dorms are nice and they give you enough space for dorm activities. The food was good for being dorm food and they have a really nice variety over the time that I was there this year. There are also really helpful programs that allow people to try to find jobs, many of which are in laboratory based positions.
Am enjoying being here I really liked my roommate and suite mates they were always hanging out watching television and finding things to go and try to do on the weekends. Most of us were the same year and all understood the difficulties that each of us had. I had alot of help from my classes from my roommate as well and we got things done together. I joined the Role Playing Games club and went to that every Wednesday night. I liked that part so much that I'm hosting some games for friends of mine over the summer. Any time I wanted to get a question about academics, I would just go to the necessary office and ask. They were very friendly and understood what I needed.
Am learning a lot Many of the classes are challenging and I was able to learn alot from chemistry to ethnic studies (which I took this year). Some teachers can seem impersonal, but there is a program called dine with a prof to meet them outside class. Most lectures that I went to I was able to follow along in the required reading and everything came together and made sense.
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Claire from San Diego, CA
07/09/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
4 out of 4 people found this review useful. 7 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students UCSD is great for students that enjoy learning, but also love to be involved. This is not a party campus, but there is something for everyone, if you look in the right places. Also, it is in San Diego, which is absolutely gorgeous. It is right next to the beach, so if you can't imagine living without a beach, this is the place to be.
Tips for prospective students Keep an open mind about everything. Remember that everyone is different, and you should not let people pressure you into going somewhere because they think it may be better or more fun. The right college for one person does not mean it is the right college for you. Make sure to get involved your first year, because making friends your first year is how you will get through the rest of your time in college!
Bang for the buck Compared to the cost of Junior colleges, UCSD is rather pricey. However, I believe it is entirely worth it, especially to live on campus. I think that I truly was able to experience college life, discover things about myself, and become truly independent, because I was able to live on campus with other students my age. This is where I found my community and friends that I know will last. Not only is this community worth the money, but the education is exceptional. I had such a great year that would not have been possible in another environment.
Am enjoying being here I just finished my first year at UCSD, and I absolutely love it. There is a six college system, that includes six different colleges within the larger university that focus on different ideas. I am in the John Muir College, which focuses on the free spirit, independence, and nature. I have met so many great, similar-minded people through my first year experience. I especially recommend living on campus, as then you can really receive the full experience. I am aware that UCSD can often be considered socially dead, however, I feel that people are giving it a bad rap. I was able to find a great community that was very sociable and fun. Just like all other things, life is what you make of it, you just have to have an open mind and look in the right places.
Am learning a lot My first year at this college I took a large variety of interesting classes. The Muir college gives students an especially large amount of freedom in choosing classes to cover general education requirements. All the teachers I have had have been extremely knowledgeable in their subjects. Classes are difficult; however, if you attend class, take notes, and study, it is possible to do very well ( while also maintaining a strong social life).
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Secil from San Jose, CA
07/25/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 8 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Dedicated, motivated students. UCSD is on the quarter system, so you really have to stay on top of things. Things go by pretty quickly. Using your time wisely is key.
Tips for prospective students Stick with this school. During my first year, I really wanted to transfer out. But after a year, I really came to love this college. Meet a lot of people. Don't go home. Most people that I've encountered disliked ucsd upon first impressions. Everyone goes home during the weekends and then it becomes dead without any people around. College is supposed to be fun. Stick around with friends during the weekend to just hangout. It's a lot more convenient on campus, and you still have a lot of fun. Trust me. :)
Bang for the buck College education is expensive. Period. But there are a lot of scholarships and financial aid. Calgrant, Federal Pell grants, and even UCSD gives its own grants and scholarships too, based on your family's income.
Am enjoying being here At first I hated UCSD. It has the reputation of being a socially dead school, which I used to agree with. This school is a lot bigger compared to other schools, and separated by its own separate colleges within the college. Keeping this in mind, the school may seem more antisocial. It really depends on who you meet, and who become your friends. This college is one that really grows on you, most people immediately dislike it on first impression. But towards my spring quarter in UCSD this past year, I really came to fall in love with UCSD. I am really happy here. I hope you guys come too! Seriously, don't judge based on first impressions. :)
Am learning a lot Definately. Just when you think you've learned enough in high school, think again. College opens even more doors and learning educational experiences.
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Vi from Corona, CA
08/05/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 4 people found this review useful. 9 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students You've got to be pretty dedicated to make it here. The school is on the quarter system so you'll have to be on your toes the entire time.
Tips for prospective students Whatever you do, don't skip class. There isn't much learning done in the dorms (it can get pretty social/loud/etc.). Establish a study environment early on during the school year so you aren't bogged down by all the work once it starts coming in. And remember to rank your colleges according to your preferences! The GE's could be a burden if you don't choose correctly. Also, you might want to rack up as many units as you can before entering. It gets pretty difficult getting classes if you don't get enough units.
Bang for the buck Sometimes I feel as if I should have gone to a community college beforehand just to rack up units since it is pretty difficult to get classes when you want them. But looking back, UCSD has provided many more experiences than any community college would have. The dorms (though they're pretty sucky) really do provide a different environment than living at home.
Am enjoying being here The environment is great. The beach is near, the school is really relaxing, and the people are friendly. The school does have a reputation of being UC Socially Dead, but everything is what you make of it. I do know a few people who hate being here, but I love the environment and the vibe you get from being here.
Am learning a lot The teachers are okay. A few of them are really passionate about the subject and actually want the students to learn. Others, on the other hand, are just there for the research and don't care much for their students.
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Rachel from Santa Clarita, CA
08/23/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 10 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Those that are interested in science-based research careers will fit perfectly here. Although the science program will be impacted this upcoming year, the majority of students around campus is still headed in that direction. But really, any student who is motivated to and will work hard to achieve their diploma.
Tips for prospective students Get involved early! I was lucky to get plugged in to clubs and school activities from welcome week, and that is how I found my community and made my time at UCSD worthwhile. I know a bunch of people who did not put themselves out there, and they regret it A LOT. Also, make sure you see a counselor. They really DO help you with everything; don't get too lazy to do that.
Bang for the buck Definitely pricier than junior colleges but A LOT cheaper than private colleges. UCSD is pretty good with giving out some scholarships, and there are always other scholarships and grants you can apply for.
Am enjoying being here Definitely! UCSD is not only a great university in terms of education, but the campus is beautiful and the social life is awesome (depending on the clubs or activities you take part in)! However, UCSD has a reputation for being a socially dead school in respect to parties and night life, which is true, but don't let that scare you away! The six college system, I thought, was very secluding when I first came to UCSD. I did not like how each college was separated, and I thought it would be difficult to find a community. However, the system ended up being a great way to meet people with the same interests (your college), and establish closer relationships as well (they live near you). The dining system is also not so bad. UCSD has one of the best dining halls that serve a variety of food. When one of my friends visited from Cal Poly Pomona, she tried the food from one of our dining halls and exclaimed that it was SO great and the food was AMAZING. Maybe she was just hungry that night, but I think there is a little bit of truth in that. I definitely enjoyed my first year here: the community, activities, education, and relaxing, San Diego feel to the campus is worth investing in.
Am learning a lot College is definitely different compared to high school, in a harder and more meaningful way. High school courses are easy to get through because of homework assigned to boost your grade. However, college will force you to study because your grade relies only on your two midterms and final. The education can be exceptional or a joke depending on the courses you take and the teachers you have. Some professors are incredibly passionate about their courses and explain the material thoroughly; these professors are the ones that have inspired me to come to class, learn, and absorb the material. Other professors, although they may be passionate, do not teach very well, will which demotivate you from attending class or stay awake. However, in situations like these, there are always office hours or tutoring workshops available that will help you with the material. Although classes here can be very difficult and time consuming, it is possible to get the A with diligent studying, note taking, and time management.
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Quynh from San Jose, CA
08/26/2009Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 11 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students UCSD has a great biology program, so this is the school to be if you're pre-med or thinking of going into a biology major. It is an also a great school for engineering majors.
Tips for prospective students For the application process, be sure to research about the six colleges before ranking them. All six colleges have different things to offer. They are located in different parts of campus, all have their own dorms and dining halls (although the Muir dining hall will be closed for the entirety of the 09-10 school year). Each college also has different GE requirements including a writing course. Revelle is known for having the most GE requirements, while Muir has the least. But most UCSD students love the college they're in so don't be discourage if you do not get into your first ranked college. I got into my second ranked college and still love it.
Bang for the buck The cost of going to UCSD has increased in the last few years but it is far cheaper then a private school. I have financial aid and took out some Stafford loans and that was plenty to cover the cost of tuition and housing. Financial aid does differ from person to person, but I still think the cost is still manageable and you're getting plenty for what you're paying for.
Am enjoying being here UCSD is known to be socially dead. If you want a party school, UCSD is not the school for you! However, we do have great student organizations you can join and plenty of intramural sports to participate in. There is always plenty to do here. I have enjoyed a fair share of great concerts at this school too. If you love music and plan to go here, be sure to check out the Loft at Price Center. Also we have a six college system. I love this system because even though UCSD is a really big university, I still have a sense of close knitted community within my particular college. I'm a Sixth College student and I love it. There GEs aren't too bad and I think the dorms are really nice.
Am learning a lot UCSD is known to be a research university where the professors tend to focus on their research more then their students, but there are still some great professors at this school. I had my fair share of great professors. Just be sure to go to office hours even if you're doing well in a class. With a large class size, it's a good idea to get to know your professor. The classes can become competitive, and it is very easy to fall behind. Keep on track with readings and do all homework, even if it's not mandatory. By doing this, you can probably do well at UCSD.
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Amy from La Jolla, CA
01/12/2010Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 12 of 252
Categories Comments Bang for the buck I'm an international student so paying tuitions really suck for me. It's also difficult to get residency in California (due to the bankruptcy of California government) but I'm still trying.
Am enjoying being here I love being at this school. The people are amazingly nice and although there's nothing much to do around campus, we just hang out and chilll at each other's rooms. It's difficult getting around without a car but there are definately things to do such as San Diego zoo and Seaworld. The beach here also makes up for the lack of transportation. It's always sunny and amazingly beautiful. I love UCSD!
Am learning a lot I came into this college thinking it was going to be a piece of cake, because I came from a high school that was extremely academically challenging. However, I was proven wrong. Classes are difficult and requires a LOT of time self studying. However, I'm definately learning a ton and I guarantee it's different from high school.
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Candace from Los Angeles, CA
02/01/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 13 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students UCSD, along with every UC system, is a great research institution. It is geared mainly towards the sciences and technological majors but they also have great non science facilities. They are perfect for students interested in conducting research, mainly because they have the UCSD school of medicine across the street and the Jacob's school of Engineering, facilitating the process of attaining an internship. UCSD is perfect for any individual who has been identified as an overachiever who wants to truly make a difference in this world. College is honestly the place where you find yourself and what lights your heart and fills you with passion. It is here where you find the rest of your life!
Tips for prospective students If you are interested in UCSD, there are some things you should try to acquire or be aware of before entering college. Learn time management skills! Be organized. Do not procrastinate. Find an effective way to study. Try to enhance your writing and math skills for placement exams. Study for those AP exams and try to earn as much college credit as possible. Learn how to budget your money. Lastly, make sure the universities you apply to have your major. There are also some tips for attending UCSD or any other university. Do not skip class. Do not enroll in any 8 a.m. classes unless you are truly a morning person, it is much harder getting up early! Attend your professor's office hours, you need those letters of recommendation for Grad School. Establish a close professional relationship with your TA's, they do all of the grading. Seek academic advising. Explore your major and other alternatives. Join clubs and/or sports. Network, make friends and have fun!
Bang for the buck UCSD is ranked the seventh best public university in the nation. We are taught by leading individuals who are brilliant in their field. All of the professors that I have had are amazing and have dedicated many years of their lives for the subject they are most passionate about. Because of this you can assume that each professor cares about the material being taught, making it more enjoyable for the students.
Am enjoying being here Being that UCSD is a highly populated university, the six colleges make it very easy to meet new people and form communities. Despite UCSD's reputation of being a socially dead university, there is actually countless events that promote socializing and having fun. There are always free activities to engage in like free zumba dancing, free yoga class, attending athletic games, free meditation, exercise classes, salsa dancing and many more. Along with those fun events there are also concerts with featured artists at a low price. The box office also sells tickets for amusement parks and the entertainment at a student discount. Also, a car is not necessary because every student gets a free bus pass. This bus pass is incredible! It takes us to all of the attractions in San Diego.
Am learning a lot Transitioning from high school to college was definitely an adventure, and not a very thrilling one for that matter. I left my house feeling like an adult ready to encounter anything that stumbled my way, but it so happened that I was the one stumbling my way into the world. Classes are difficult and lecture halls are daunting. It is extremely intimidating to be sitting with 300 other people trying to grasp as much material as possible in 50 minutes. Due to the great number of people, it is a highly competitive atmosphere, but you still find many people willing to assist you. I have learned to sit in the front so I can concentrate better and fully comprehend the professor. A's are not given away like they were in high school, so one has to work extremely hard to attain their desired grade and even then disappointment lingers in.
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Aaron from Torrance, CA
08/15/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 14 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Academically, UCSD is great for the aforementioned bioengineer, bioinformatic, and computer-related hopefuls out there. If you don't know what you want to do, UCSD is great regardless. Unless you want to get into law--we don't offer law as a major, here (sorry?). For everything else beyond the world of academia, this place is for you, no matter who you are. UCSD can be prestigious and humbling at the same time.
Tips for prospective students Some of you may not choose to attend UCSD (and if it were because of my review, I apologize), so if any of you take anything from this review, let it be these tips to live by: 1. Make friends. They are an invaluable resource that can get you out of (and into) hard times. You can save hundreds by sharing textbooks with them and can save hours of studying by collaborating with them. They will fill the times that you would otherwise be alone at a bus stop, walking to class, listening to a boring teacher, or writing an essay at four in the morning. They will become your colleagues by day and the ones you'll be working together with to try to walk straight by night. They may very well become your best men and your bridesmaids. If you do anything in college, get some damn friends. 2. Learn to do the laundry. Going home on weekends and breaks with a bag full of laundry is no way to start being an adult. Most of you are already 18 by now, for goodness' sake. Learn to wake up on time on your own, wash your own dishes, and most importantly-- 3. Grow up. We all have to do it. What separates a high schooler from a respectable college student is the ability to get top marks during the day, celebrate like a maniac at night and be a sobered-up scholar by the first class the next morning, all while having no one else know about your crazy side besides your friends (which you should have [see #1]). It's like a mullet, but for *life*. Learn to balance things. Party animal doesn't go well on a resume and neither does just being noted for graduating. What it comes down to is-- 4. Effort. Like I had said before, most people are fine with just getting by. That could mean getting a 4.0 in college but not having one extracurricular on their resumes. What you need to do is find out how you can put a little extra something out there to better yourself and your future. Reluctance to prevent regret will be your biggest regret. I'm not saying be a superhero, but once you get yourself committed to a program or internship it's hard to get yourself to quit and once it's over you'll either have loved it or glad you did it. 5. Learn to speak. Learn to speak to others in a tolerating, educated manner because you will meet people different than you and you will meet people smarter than yourself. Be open-minded but learn to support your values. Also, have some values that are worth supporting. For the introverts out there, you can remain shy or indifferent but it helps to learn how to instinctively make adequate eye-contact and practice good speaking skills. All this also ties into your having to-- 6. Be confident. College will attempt to change you, but use your head and stick to the path you'll ultimately thank yourself for adhering to. Don't get eaten alive out there.
Bang for the buck UCs are constantly becoming more and more costly to attend. Now you (or should I say whoever is paying for your education) has to make the choice of whether or not getting an education from an accredited four-year university such as a UC will be worth it. You can research all you want the difference between a UC and a non-UC and may be reluctant to find that there are not many differences between the two in places that you expected there to be some. From an educational standpoint you could learn just as much from a CSU and it really depends on your area of academic concentration. Speaking of area of concentration, UCSD has one of the best bioengineering, bioinformatics, and computer systems according to U.S. News and World Report, so if that's what you're into then this school is right up your alley and is worth the buck. From a non-academic standpoint, the food you'll have to at one point buy from the cafeterias on campus is nothing compared to home-cooked meals your mother would make but definitely better and more effort-efficient than anything most of us lazy (male) students could make. Even if you're a very capable cook you'll have to buy a dining plan along with your housing plan and won't have time to cook a quarter of your meals. Most importantly (and relevant to most of us): the experience. College will be nothing that a majority of us out there will have experienced. Feeling like an adult but living like a kid will be in most of our futures and we will make mistakes that will shape our future and will have spiced up our past and present. You might gain more street smarts one year than book smarts! If you approach the social scene in college right, you'll have one wild ride (for the lack of a term more concise and with equal brevity) .
Am enjoying being here UCSD caters to all of your needs. Book fiend? We've got a great libraries, all interconnected within the campus and with other campuses in the nation. Body guru? Almost 200,000 square feet of gym complex. Foodie? The campus itself houses eateries for those with specific tastes and those with iron stomachs (UCSD is also located in the upper-class city of La Jolla so feel free to explore what hoighty-toighty establishments it has to offer). Hardcore partier/college sport fanatic? I heard from the grapevine that there's a school called SDSU nearby and if you're willing to supplement school pride with San Diego pride you'll fit right in. Oh, and if you're into surfing or whatever the ocean has to offer, UCSD is located right next to the beach. The San Diego area is also home to 6 of the 10 best beaches in Southern California. There's also hang gliding, hot air ballooning and whatnot for those of you with a source of income. The undergraduate housing facilities on campus vary in quality depending on which of the six colleges you choose to attend but overall they are satisfactory and should hardly affect the real source of your college enjoyment--the people. We're social beings constantly hungry for the interaction with others, and like any other college with a diverse student body, you'll be making lifelong friends and unforgettable memories. That only sounded cheesy and overused because it's true.
Am learning a lot Really, learning is up to you! Depending on your goals in life, how much you're willing to achieve those goals and where you want your education at UCSD to take you your views on the concept of learning may differ from those of anyone else. Sure, the curricula at UCSD is diverse and its research opportunities ranked highest in the nation but what learning comes down to is whether or not we as students put forth the effort to retain the knowledge we receive (and have probably paid a hefty sum for). I have witnessed through experience and my colleagues a vicious cycle of academia: memorize empty facts and correlations, pass the corresponding tests then ditch the material as if it were never learned. I cannot say that this method is not effective nor viable as I have practiced it myself with satisfactory results. What I can say is that, like any university, you'll be taking classes as prerequisites to other, more advanced courses and you'll rather have had learned and familiarized yourself with the material a good amount than have had relearned the fundamentals along with the newer material. Also, if you're looking at going to med school and taking the MCAT or are some other student needing to take some standardized test later in your college career you'll wish you had stored the information from your classes in that capable, UC-worthy noggin of yours. I suppose what I'm trying to say is that you should earn good marks in college the old-fashioned way: by learning the material and not cramming it all the night before and purging it all after the test. It does yourself a favor and brings you another step closer to becoming (dare I say it?) a good student! Like an old professor of mine once told me: people are complacent with just getting by--it's those who put forth the extra bit of effort that go far. You're going to be attending college soon--it's best to remove all possibility of regret now by staying ahead of the competition, even if by an inch.
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Tyler from Santa Monica, CA
01/04/2012Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 15 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students This school is great for students who like surfing and easy going people who aren't big partiers. You get that whole laid back California feeling but it is a very studious school.
Tips for prospective students The school sounds amazing on paper, it's in a top notch area (La Jolla) and they have an outstanding science program and the best study abroad opportunities I've ever seen. I used my TAG on this school before visiting and when I visited I sort of regretted it. The school is awesome don't get me wrong, it just wasn't for me, so moral of the story is to visit before you apply!
Bang for the buck This school has one of the best study abroad programs I've ever seen at a college and they have the highest percent of students who study abroad. It's definitely worth the money you are going to be paying, especially in as expensive of an area as La Jolla.
Will enjoy being here The campus is very quiet, I visited on my own as a prospective transfer student and have visited friends who go here and it just didn't seem like there was a whole lot going on. One this that really threw me off was the fact that there is no 'greek row' the greek system is spread very thin and there aren't really houses just apartments.
Will learn a lot This school is outstanding when it comes to the sciences and their Bio engineering department has no match.
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Meghan-Ashley from Chula Vista, CA
08/07/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 16 of 252
Categories Comments What to do for fun Go to the beach.
Food and Dining Price center is where the food court is located at, and a variety of options to choose from.
Dorm Life Better than driving everyday for 30-45 minutes.
Academic Rigor Very competitive.
Tips for prospective students Always attend lecture because UCSD runs in a quarter system, and it is very hard to catch up. Read, read, and read.
In three sentences In an academic perspective, UCSD is very competitive, and everyday students are studying non-stop. What I love about UCSD is that the classes are almost 1 mile apart, and biking is usually the best option to add exercise into my daily routine . Another factor is that while walking I I can see are trees everywhere, and allows me to appreciate nature more.
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09/18/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 17 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety Nestled in the city of quiet city of La Jolla, the university faces lower crime rates. Community Service Officers (CSO) patrol the campus at night on their bicycles, watching for any suspicious activity and escorting students back to their dorms after a late-night study session at Geisel. The campus is relatively well lit at night, with emergency buttons scattered throughout.
Greek Life Although an official Greek row does not exist, UC San Diego is home to a variety of sororities and fraternities. Their booths can be viewed often along Library Walk. There are many with differing focuses to welcome anyone - from community service based, to engineering or health career fields, to social and night life lovers.
Great for these types of students Students who would love a large school with countless academic and research opportunities would find home in UC San Diego. Additionally, anyone who finds an interest in nature and preservation will be delighted with the various hikes and ten-minute walk to the beach that the school offers.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Sun God statue, located in Muir College, is one of the defining characteristics of the school. Students can be seen walking backwards under it as a famed tradition that promises good grades on their finals. Well-known annual traditions include the Watermelon Drop at the top of Urey Hall, and the Sun God Festival, which showcases worldwide musical talents.
Food and Dining On-Campus students must use the Dining Dollars program, in which they must purchase their meals in dining halls with individually priced foods, rather than a buffet-style swipe system. Dining halls are found throughout campus, roughly one for each of the six colleges. They vary in the quality of food and atmosphere provided - for example, Eleanor Roosevelt's Cafe Ventanas boasts beautiful architecture and design with mediocre food, while Muir College's newly constructed Pines excels in both aesthetics and food quality / variety. Revelle College's Plaza is conveniently located near the highly used York Hall, but lacks in both eye-candy and good food. Each college also houses their own marketplace, where students can buy food ingredients, microwavable meals, and various school necessities, also with their dining dollars. These are highly convenient, and are most packed after late-night study sessions, since they close at 1 AM.
Dorm Life Each of the six colleges house their own students. The dorm quality varies according to the college and the building type. I lived in Revelle's Argo Hall, which was a towering building housing approximately fifty students each floor. Dorms are always suite style, and can house anywhere from ten to fifteen students. The bathrooms are surprisingly easy to share - despite living with so many other girls, I rarely had any shower conflicts. Dorms are often equipped with common rooms and a shared kitchen / lounge area with the floor. Resident Advisors are highly helpful, easing the transition to college by planning events throughout the year that are both social and educational. The suite-style approach that UC San Diego takes is effective by providing the privacy needed while still fostering a social environment.
Academic Rigor As a competitive member of the University of California system, it is consistently ranked in the top schools of the nation. Consequently, its academic rigor is immensely high, especially for students entering into a science major program. At this school, academics are the number one focus; anyone who wants to challenge themselves in this competitive environment is welcome. Like the majority of other UC's, San Diego embraces a quarter system as opposed to a semester system. This means that the regular school year consists of three quarters - Fall, Winter, and Spring, in which students undergo only ten weeks of instruction followed by a Finals Week before receiving their grade. These ten weeks go by incredibly fast, and is unforgiving to anyone who chooses to slack off. The trick to surviving this system is to study seriously from the first week, rather than falling behind and finding yourself in Geisel cramming in ten weeks' of information during the crowded Finals Week.
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08/28/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 18 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus safety is above average throughout the year. At night, there are Campus Security Officers patrolling the school and escorting students back to their residences when called. In addition, there are Residential Security Officers patrolling the residential facilities throughout the school to ensure the students' safety throughout the night. The RSO staff is extremely friendly and they give the students a feeling of security in their homes at night. The only thing I would say is that the campus could be a bit better lighted in the night time.
Great for these types of students If you like to be challenged academically, take part in nature activities, enjoy athletic pastimes, or just LOVE the California weather and environment, the University of California San Diego is the school for you.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus One of the most celebrated traditions on campus is the annual Sun God Festival hosted by the Associated Students for Concerts and Events department. On this day, the campus comes alive as students unite for a music festival with the top artists and performers of the year.
What to do for fun Settled in the astoundingly beautiful beaches and natural reserves of La Jolla, students at UCSD are extremely lucky to have access to endless amounts of outdoor activities. From surfing lessons, hikes along preserved trails, hang gliding on the outskirts of campus, and so much more. Not an outdoorsy person? That's not a problem, there is plenty to do around the San Diego area. Hit the clubs in San Diego's Gaslamp District. Visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. Go shopping in the large variety of stores provided by the Westfield UTC or Fashion Valley Center. See if your favorite artist is performing at Porter's Pub or RIMAC. Catch a baseball game at the grand Petco Park stadium. There's a never-ending list of things to do on and off campus, it's up to you to find them!
Food and Dining The dining halls and markets around UCSD do not disappoint. Sure it's no five-star restaurant with a million reviews, but it's as good as it's going to get when it comes to dorm food. There are many options in the six UCSD dining facilities, satisfying your vegetarian needs, meat cravings, and sweet tooth. If you grow tired of the dining halls, UCSD also has a sit-in restaurant called The Bistro, where you can order gourmet dishes such as a sauteed salmon, glazed chicken, bbq pork loins, and more. UCSD was also recently voted the #1 vegan-friendly college campus in the United States.
Dorm Life The dorm life at UCSD is extraordinary in that it creates an environment for the students to interact, grow stronger together, and develop long lasting relationships. Living on campus gives the students a sense of community, as we interact with each other on a day to day basis. The residential advisors are excellent in helping new students adjust to their new environment, and the suite format of the dorms really allows students to connect in a deeper bond. Resources are magnificent, the housing facilities are commendable, and the staff is nothing but welcoming and helpful. I could not have asked for a better dorm experience than my first year at UCSD.
Academic Rigor Every student is unique, and each and every person works in different ways. As for me, I believe the academic rigor at UCSD is challenging. Coming from the top of my high school, I found myself as well as other students struggling to keep up in classes and working extra hard to understand certain material. The professors and their courses challenge the students so that they can reach their full potential, and because UCSD is composed of academically excellent students, this intensifies the academic rigor and makes the environment even more competitive.
Tips for prospective students When entering UCSD, it is important to keep a positive outlook and to stay true to who you are. To become successful in not just UCSD, but anywhere, it is crucial to know who you are and what kind of person you want to be. Do not conform to fit any type of social standard or to develop any relationships, because ultimately you will not succeed and end up unhappy with who you've become. The key to success is good old-fashioned honest hard work and determination. Go to your lectures, don't oversleep, keep up with your courses, ask questions in class, stay healthy, give yourself time to socialize and relax, but most importantly, know the balance between work and play. These are the steps to success.
In three sentences Upon attending the University of California-San Diego, it has become more than an academic institute for me, it is a new home, a place of self-discovery, as well as a foundation to a strong and bright future. UCSD provides a welcoming environment for its students, returning and new, and it pushes you to reach your potential with its inspirational messages and morals around spread throughout the campus amongst its six colleges. The campus's endless resources and eager professors and counselors are a relief to have with me every step of the way, and I am grateful to be part of the UC San Diego experience.
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10/28/2010Reviewer is A current student here.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 19 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students who: -Like to be challenged in their academics -Like the sunshine -Want to build meaningful relationships with faculty/staff -Enjoy lots of concerts -Want to go abroad -Like to do their own thing -Want lots of options to get involved on/off campus
Tips for prospective students 1. Take a tour! Preferably during the week; there is no better way to get a feel for the campus than to be led around by a current student and have them dish on everything you need to know. It's also very helpful in understanding the six college system. Don't forget to check out the beach after the tour. 2. Go online! Look into all of the different colleges online to get a better feel for the system, and how you might want to rank them when you apply. Remember: your college has nothing to do with your major! 3. Go to office hours! When you get to university, whether or not you attend UCSD, go to your professor's office hours! I promise they aren't scary old men that will eat you if you dare venture into their cave of an office. There are actually cool people (men and women), and they are there to help you succeed, if you have a question, go to them, they will help you--if they don't, then that was a fluke, and don't let it discourage you. They are also great when it comes time to get a rec letter, which you will need at some point in your life! 4. Eat the food. Check out the dining hall food while you are on campus--you can get food court food anywhere. I am partial to Oceanview Terrace's breakfast burritos, but if it's a Friday, definitely check out the international lunches at the International Center. 5. Ask questions! If you're confused about something, call the campus and ask somebody! You don't want to just assume things about UCSD, only to find out it isn't what you expected. Ask students, faculty, staff; email people, and they will likely reply honestly. People are a great resource that are seldom used.
Bang for the buck Being an out-of-state student, my tuition costs are a lot higher than those students that are from California. It's the one downside of attending UCSD, but it's totally worth the extra cost, at least for me, because UCSD has become my home. I recommend applying for as many scholarships as you can if you are an out-of-state student.
Am enjoying being here I love, love, love UCSD! I don't want to come off as someone who is just writing this to make the school look good, I honestly have enjoyed every second of my time here. This is a school that doesn't pressure you to be anything, and without that weight on your shoulders, you have the opportunity to open yourself up and try new things. If you want to go out and party all the time, go for it; if you want to stay in your room and study all the time, go for it; if you want to join the zombie club, or a sports team, go for it! There is no judgement here, and that is something that is truly hard to find. UCSD is a great place to find yourself, and discover what you enjoy, without any outside pressures.
Am learning a lot All of the professors at UC San Diego have a terminal degree in their field, meaning they have a PhD or have gone as far as they possible can go. This means that the professors really are the best in their fields. I love my major, and I love where my education is taking me, so naturally, I love my classes and learn a lot from my professors. We do have large class sizes, which can be a little daunting at first, but it's good because it really forces you to take control of your education. You have to actively decide that you are going to pay attention in lecture, do the work, and get the grade. It's kind of exciting having that kind of independence, even in just getting to choose your classes. There are so many opportunities to expand your knowledge base; I took a philosophy course, which is way outside of my major, but it was one of the best classes I've ever taken.
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Carin from Moorpark, CA
11/28/2010Reviewer is A current student here.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 20 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Great for students who want to pursure reseach and come out of college with a well-rounded education! The school will really prepare you for graduate studies. This school really motivates you to focus on the academic side of college!
Tips for prospective students First and foremost, tour the campus. Its really worthwhile to listen to the tour guides tell you about all of the amazing features of this campus. Second, look into the general requirements for each college. Ranking is important especially if you want to get out in four years. Try and find the college that matches up with your major the best. Once your here: Go to class, but also re-listen to the podcasts. I was amazed at how much it helped me to go back and be able to listen to the lecture at my own pace (especially great for professors who talk quickly). I really recommend getting involved. It is rumored that UCSD is the University for the Socially Dead, but that is definitely just a rumor. There are so many great opportunities on campus from concerts to clubs to Greek life. There is something out there for everyone, I urge everyone to get involved.
Bang for the buck Tuition increases are daunting but there are so many scholarships out there. I highly recommend going straight to a four year university. The cost may seem overwhelming but the life experience you gain from going away to college is invaluable. The classes are much more interactive and informative than community college classes. The atmosphere of this campus really motivates you. The science program isn't cut throat which is really refreshing.
Am enjoying being here What could be better than looking at the ocean every day? UCSD really has it all: a great academic reputation, great location, and tons of fun activities around campus. Oh and who could forget to mention the amazing weather. There are always events going on and there is an organization out there for everyone.
Am learning a lot The professors are truly amazing. Every professor must be actively involved in research in there field and have a PhD in there area of focus. Professors really know the material and hearing personal stories of how they have applied the material that you are currently learning in the real world really brings the course alive. Classes are large but professors really want to get to know the students. There is also a free tutoring program on campus, Oasis, that is extremely helpful for those tougher classes. Some of the general education requirements may seem abstract on first glance but every class I have taken has paid off and taught me something valuable.
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Roy from La Jolla, CA
12/29/2010Reviewer is A current student here.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 21 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students This university is great for people who want to get far in life. This is a very competitive university, so one must know that it is not easy. However, when put in prospective, it does not feel like you are doing that much work. It becomes habit, and eventually will seem normal. Although it may not have the name like UCLA, if one does their research, it is constantly ranked above UCLA and even is #1 in the nation in some fields of study. You must have determination, but also be will to relax and go with the flow. The university knows what it is doing, and with the counselors help, you will be pushed in any direction you want. Some classes can be difficult, but that is the same with all top-rated schools. So I would recommend students that are willing to work hard for their goals. It will pay off in the end.
Tips for prospective students A great tip I couldn't stress more is, relax. Many people freak out over their first year (as I did), and do poorly. It is okay to get C's now, especially since this university houses some of the top minds in the country. Also, I can not stress the importance of going to discussions. If you miss a lecture or don't understand what is going on, the TA's in discussion always cover what was discussed, and will take personal questions. So if your not someone who likes going to lecture all the time, make sure to attend discussion!
Bang for the buck This College is a top-rated research university, and it definitely offers a top-level education. On top of the professors is discussions with TA's, or teacher assistants. These are graduate students, usually from other top rated universities such as Stanford, CIT, and even some Harvard and Yale. The university gives you many opportunities for outside work and internships (I often find myself deleting them out of habit I get so many), so this is a great place to meet big people in high places. UC San Diego is extremely competitive is the science field, especially in Biology as it is impacted (only a certain number of kids can get in). However, they are very skilled in the arts as well as social sciences as many law students and actors come from this university. Although it may seem the professors have other business to attend, compared to other universities they are much easier to reach and will even do privates if asked.
Am enjoying being here The 6 College system was extremely confusing for me at first. When i applied I had no idea which college to go for based on my major. However, talking to past students they definitely assured me not to worry. The 6 college system has no affect on your major or ranking in the system. It is only based on location, so most people chose the college based on where most their classes are. For example, Political Science majors or any English/Humanities majors go to Elenore College, while many math or science majors attend Revelle or Marshall. Many engineers may also attend these, but also may look into Warren as the structural engineering building is located there. 6th college is mainly for the arts. I like the University because it is very low-key. There is no crime, it is beautiful all the time, and the beach is only a ten minute walk and can be seen from classrooms. Many people might say it is a no-party school. They are wrong. There are plenty of student activities and parties to go to, in the Greek housing and on campus. Once you go things will just spill out for you.
Am learning a lot The rate at which you learn material here is much faster than any other place I have been, including Community College and The Ohio State University. Not all the professors are extremely helpful, or easy to understand at times, but the Teacher Assistants will clarify any questions you might have on a more personal level. Therefore, you can get a closer connection to the material while going to a top-rated research university.
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Heather from Glendora, CA
05/30/2011Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 22 of 252
Categories Comments Bang for the buck This is kind of a pricey school and financial aid doesn't fully cover it. Expect to find at least $10,000 in scholarships each year. Also, because of budget cuts, tuition could go up.
Will enjoy being here It is such a beautiful campus. There are plenty of places to study besides the gigantic library. There are plenty of trees and open spaces to be secluded from the hustle and bustle of school. The beach is also in walking distance and there are dorms which have an ocean view.
Will learn a lot There are a lot of research opportunities here and even the Scripps Institute of Oceanography that is close by. UCSD has it's own pier too.
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Grace from Los Alamitos, CA
07/19/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 23 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students If you want a well-rounded education with just the right balance of studying and having fun, UCSD is perfect. Overall, UCSD is a beautiful campus located right next to the beach and in a quiet town. But those looking for a social scene don't have to look very far either.
Tips for prospective students If you want to party: rush a fraternity or sorority. This is the prime way to meet other students with the same interest as you. Even if you do not pledge, you'll make friends who want to party as well. If you want to be a Muir student, you MUST place Muir as your number one choice.
Bang for the buck With the rise of tuition, it is getting more and more difficult to get a bang for the buck. Although the education itself may not be the best bang for the buck, UCSD has taught me critical values that I am utilizing at my internships and workplace. But yes, the price of education is rising rapidly, but it is still cheaper than a private education. Also, rent can be pretty steep at some off-campus properties, but if you're not too picky, you can find a good price.
Am enjoying being here While the social scene is NOT the most active here, students can choose how involved they become. The Greek system (sororities and fraternities) is not the best, but enough for anyone looking to party. There are also numerous professional and multicultural sororities and fraternities that also have many parties. Don't forget the Sun God Festival, held annually in the Spring quarter. Every year, famous musicians are brought to campus, and UCSD students break the socially dead stereotype for a weekend of debauchery. It is consistently regarded as one of the top college festivals around the nation, and I can testify that I've had fun every single year. UCSD provides a rigorous academic schedule while still leaving room for just the perfect amount of fun. I enjoy being surrounded by students who are focused, smart, and fun. San Diego is a decent college town. Most things (restaurants, grocery stores, malls, etc) are a short drive or bus trip away, but the beach is right across the street from campus. Pacific Beach (10 minute drive away), a popular area full of bars, or Gaslamp in downtown are both places that the 21+ crowd can enjoy.
Am learning a lot Like many other schools, the quality of your education will depend on your major. I am currently a senior Economics student. Here's a clear warning: an Economics major is not the same as a Business major. I've learned mostly mathematical work that is not entirely useful in a business environment. However, those who want a business education can take classes at the Rady School of Management. However, those interested in science, especially bioengineering, will be very pleased here as there are countless labs to gain experience in. Theater and dance are also ranked well here. As in other research-based schools, many professors are much more interested in completing their research projects than they are in teaching a class of hundreds of students. However, every once in awhile you will come across a professor who is amiable and truly interested in your learning.
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Kevin from Clovis, CA
10/09/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 24 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students who want to be the next innovators in the science and engineering fields.
Tips for prospective students Come see the campus. You will know if this is where you belong.
Bang for the buck The learning experience and atmosphere is well worth the in state cost of attendance.
Am enjoying being here I would not rather be anywhere else.
Academic Rigor I am a third year and have been challenged at UCSD since day one. The classes are tough but worth every bit of effort.
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Emiliano from American Canyon, CA
11/06/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 25 of 252
Categories Comments Tips for prospective students ucsd has a great engineering program, and they also have a graduate pharmacy program right across campus as well. my major focuses on pharmacy, and ucsd has a seven-year program that connects the undergraduate program with skaggs school of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences. you have to declare it, i believe, winter quarter of freshman year, and hardly anyone gets in, but you never know...
Bang for the buck since it's a uc school, tuition has increased every year. the reason why it's expensive every year is because of tuition and depending on your type of residency. freshmen are allowed to request apartments, as there are six colleges in ucsd, but most of the time, the school puts them in reshalls.
Am enjoying being here Freshman year is definitely the hardest as you are just coming out of high school. Library Walk, during Welcome Week and Rush Week can be really overwhleming, but don't worry! You will be able to know what's going on as you get used to the surroundings here. People are very friendly here at the ResHalls and the apartments. The beach is right down the street as well, so if you want to relax during the weekends, take the campus bus down to the warm and sandy beach!
Academic Rigor for the academics, the teachers and tas are very helpful; just remember that they are there to help answer questions, concerns, or problems you may have with the course material.
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Kristine from San Diego, CA
01/20/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 26 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety there are police and people on bicycles who will ride next to you as you walk through campus at night. i have heard that in the past year, 5 girls were attacked or followed, but that's because they didn't have a walking buddy and they were walking at night. if you were to be here at night, make sure to carry a heavy flashlight or carry a book in your hands.
Clubs and Activities i'm not sure about the clubs just yet but there are many activities on campus such as constant movement through library walk. library walk is where you can see club members and decide if you'd like to join, they also have venders out so that you can find interesting things to buy.
Great for these types of students intellectuals who can quickly understand the concepts that are being discussed.
Bang for the buck for the money that we spend, i would expect the school to have more activities and better tutoring sections, free notes as well as other services. since the school is making good money from every student and from the hospitals, they shouldn't waste money on decorations like the house on the engineering building. money could be spent on building larger parking structures that could accomodate more students because it's a waste for a student to buy a parking permit that costs $61 per month when there's no guarantee of a close parking spot. this would save the school the money it takes to run the shuttles to and from the far away parking lots.
What to do for fun working out at a gym, playing basketball, talking with friends, swimming in the pool, playing tennis and playing soccer.
Food and Dining many great places to eat, especially the little cafes and fast food places such as tapioca express, panda express, burger king, subway and many others.
Dorm Life i'm not in a dorm, i come from home.
Academic Rigor the upper division courses are much more difficult than one is used to taking in a community college. community college teachers treat most students as though they were still high schoolers, while at ucsd you're on your own as far as understanding the material. you can ask for help from the teacher, the ta's and tutors but other than that, you must grasp concepts quickly.
Tips for prospective students go to the giesel library for quiet study time. bring your lunch from home so that you can save money. get to campus early otherwise you might have to park off of voigt dr and be picked up by a shuttle. get a motorcycle because parking permits are cheaper. $22/month for a motorcycle and $61/month for a car. this saves $39 plus who knows how much less gas you will need.
In three sentences there are many things to do here such as working out, studying, and eating. although this school is overly expensive, it's worth it to come here because the atmosphere is different from a community college and you will feel as though everyone around you is as serious about their future as you are. classes are tough but if you pay attention in class, go to discussions and read the chapters, you'll be fine.
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Marcela from Northridge, CA
01/29/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 27 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety there are many services offered to keep students safe that can be reached through a phone call or from one of the many help posts around campus.
Greek Life i do not know much about greek life because i have not joined a sorority, however judging from all the tabling and recruiting i'd say its definitely active, vast, and very popular
Clubs and Activities over 400 clubs that will satisfy a vast array of beliefs and activities from the most obscure to the most popular.
Great for these types of students all types of students can feel at home here
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus -many attributes to campus include art monuments, book store, graffiti hall, price center, and many off campus services offered to students such as cookie and sushi deliveries
What to do for fun -the beach is about a five minute car ride away -weather is amazing which leaves a lot of time for outdoor activites -watch a movie -go shopping, eat out -hang out with friends at school price center where there are many food places -go to school gym, pool, or other exercise related activities
Food and Dining food is very good and there are many vegetarian and healthy options. dining halls are very clean and well kept.
Dorm Life -i live in the fleet which have been recently remodeled. they are amazing. everything is walking distance and easily reached. no disappointments here.
Academic Rigor the workload is very big but definitely manageable if one uses time and sources wisely
Tips for prospective students be prepared for the work load manage time wisely balance social and academics wisely don't be afraid to try new things
In three sentences i very much love this school. the academics are amazing since the staff is so willing to help students with any problems or questions. the school offers many opportunities for students to go beyond their comfort zones to experience new things as they figure out their futures.
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Local Student
05/06/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 28 of 252
Categories Comments Bang for the buck It costs a lot for me, but with financial aid and scholarships, I was able to reduce the cost to a couple thousands. I shouldn't complain so much considering other universities. Glad I'm not going to those private ones.
Am enjoying being here I made many friends because of being in a club. Now, when I am studying, I can rely on them to help me study, and also I can enjoy myself and destress, which is very important to your health and mental wellness.
Am learning a lot Lots of intellectual professors and students. Can be very fast pace, but once you get a group of reliable classmates and friends, all the work is manageable.
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Danielle from San Diego, CA
06/15/2011Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 29 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Great for those looking for an inspiring atmosphere to learn, with students who are serious and well informed.
Tips for prospective students Get involved with organizations on campus and meet familes in the San Diego communities. Make good use of the local beaches!
Bang for the buck UCSD is well worth the money spent.
Will enjoy being here The campus is beautiful and the people are diverse and intelligent.
Will learn a lot This is an academic college with many opportunities.
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Adrian from San Francisco, CA
07/13/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 30 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students UCSD is great for students who are able to manage their time wisely or for students who want to learn how and experience a more independent lifestyle. Academically UCSD is known as a science school and so people interested in science will definitely enjoy coming here and even more so if they are interested cutting edge research (that stuff happens all day every day here). Being such a big school in every way ultimately makes UCSD a school where pretty much anyone can come and find their own personal piece of UCSD where they will be happy. The only thing I have to emphasize is that UCSD is not your stereotypical college so if that's what you want you don't want UCSD
Tips for prospective students Just like everyone else has probably been telling you, the most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a college is to make sure to choose one that suits you. Ask yourself in all seriousness what it is exactly you want out of college and don't say what your parents want or what you think you should want but instead what you really truly want in the immediate future as well as way down the road.
Bang for the buck Here UCSD falls a bit short. The dining dollar system is quite simply a rip off if you ask me. The food at the dining halls can range from pretty bad to amazing yet the price is always the same. So one day you'll get a great meal and be served a decent portion and be completely happy paying about 12 bucks (this is for a very full meal by the way) and other days you'll feel like starving yourself. HOWEVER there are some private restaurants in the Price Center (Panda express and stuff) that may seem expensive but actually turn out to be cheaper when you consider quantity and quality. That said, tuition, room and board, and books are relatively inexpensive (Still expensive but on the more affordable side when you look at other schools). The quality of on campus housing varies from college to college within UCSD but for the most part it is very comfortable. Public transportation is free for undergrads so getting around is not bad at all except of course that you actually have to take a bus to go pretty much anywhere off campus. Groceries and stuff are cheap if you go off campus and expensive on campus. All in all if you are smart about where you spend your money you can guarantee a more than decent bang for your buck.
Am enjoying being here Some people say that UCSD stands for the UC of the Socially Dead and I gotta admit to some degree it is. There is basically no school spirit which many would say results from the lack of a foot ball team so many of the related social events like pep rallies and what not don't happen. Also the shear size of the school can make it hard to meet people unless of course you are looking to join clubs or get involved with the greek system. But enough negativity I gave UCSD 4 stars for a reason. The school itself puts on various social events that are actually pretty fun. Dances and concerts as well as fairs and student art performances happen all the time and are almost always free. The surrounding area and the campus itself are beautiful facilitating chill hang outs sessions out doors in the California sun as well as pick up games of various sports. There is also blacks beach not too far that you can go to to enjoy the nice weather. But perhaps the greatest thing about UCSD is the freedom you are given when scheduling classes since it allows you to optimize your college experience to suit your lifestyle. Oh and being a pretty huge campus means nearly endless exploration if you are into walking ALOT.
Am learning a lot UCSD can seriously show off when it comes to the quality of its professors as well as the material taught in class. Being one of the lead research universities in the country you can rest assured that everything you learn, especially in the sciences is on the absolute cutting edge. Since UCSD operates on the quarter system as opposed to the semester system, classes are much more specific. What I mean to say by this is that since there are three quarters in the year (yea its weird that they are called quarters) as opposed to two semesters, the material you would learn in a year long class is divided into three chunks which forces you to really focus and learn the heck out of the material since you'll ultimately have three finals and a score of tests in between to be ready for. So yea you have to put in a good amount of work but in the end you'll find that you know a very great deal of accurate information.
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Juan from Baldwin Park, CA
12/14/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 31 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students This school is great for students who love their academics and want to go to a challenging, successful research based school. However, if you are more into sports and school spirit this is not the school for you!!!
Tips for prospective students My tip for you future students would be study, study, study!!!! These classes can be very challenging along with the competitive nature of the student body, it can be a lot to handle! Make sure that you are prepared for finals and any other test, don't underestimate the class and make sure to put in the time to study or review no matter which class it is!
Bang for the buck I would say this school gives a great education for what you are paying. There is a variety of offered majors as well as extra classes that you would want to take on your own time. I have take a vast amount of classes and can say I have learned a lot from each and every one.
Am enjoying being here The school is full of students who strive for success. It is a very competitive school but I have found it very easy to get help from the faculty as well as the students in class. This school has a very warm, helpful environment, however, the only draw back is that there should be more school spirit. The school is lacking in school spirit and sports enthusiasm.
Am learning a lot The course work at the University of California is definitely very challenging but it ensures that you receive a quality education. I am currently a junior at this school and can say I have learned so much from all of the different classes I have taken. The school also offers a variety of classes to choose from to make sure you become a well rounded student.
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Julieta from Bakersfield, CA
12/14/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 2 people found this review useful. 32 of 252
Categories Comments Am enjoying being here I am a freshman at UCSD and when I applied and even when I accepted my acceptance I had not visited nor did I know how the university looked like. Later on I started getting nervous questioning myself what I was going to do if I didnt like the campus but when I arrived I fell in love. The weather is PERFECT! My dorm room is pretty large, WAY larger than what I expected. The campus has a nice open feel to it. I love the college system within UCSD because it make me feel part of a smaller community and not just a small person in a huge university.
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Kane from Los Angeles, CA
06/29/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 33 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety From what I know the campus is pretty safe as there are RSO's which is what we call the campus security that walk around the campus in different colleges to make sure everything is okay. However, I have gotten a couple emails regarding stuff such as rape that happen in the city of La Jolla, not necessarily on campus which indicate that it is not the safest place in the world. I myself have never seen any problems in terms of safety so I would conclude it to be generally safe.
Clubs and Activities I dont typically join clubs or attend much of the school events but I am a Christian and I did attend a Christian group called Acts to Fellowship. They were very nice and it was very enjoyable to hangout and attend a club that shared my beliefs.
Great for these types of students UCSD is a very versatile university and any type of student who attends will probably find it an enjoyable experience.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus A statue known as Sun God is located at one of the colleges which is a giant bird wearing a crown with a bunch of rainbow colors on it. If you walk under it backwards and make a wish, apparently your wish will come true. There is also a BIG festival known as the Sun God festival held every year during the spring quarter where literally thousands of students and some famous groups go to in order to celebrate together.
Bang for the buck The tuition and housing plans are generally the same compared to the other UC's at about $25000 for both.
What to do for fun I hang out with friends and explore the big campus that is UCSD. There are always clubs, frats, and sororities that try to recruit members at library walk, which is located right next to the center marketplace of the campus known as price center. If you need to find anything to do, usually going there will somewhat entertain you depending on when you go.
Food and Dining The dining experience is overall satisfying. However, some places are a bit overpriced and if you do plan on living on campus, there is a mandatory dining contract you must accept in order to live there which I disliked as there is a minimum amount to which you must pay in order to satisfy the contract.
Dorm Life It is highly recommended you dorm your first year as you will get to know many people and develop your social life on campus. The people you get to know and meet while dorming will be some of your closest friends throughout all of your college career and perhaps later in life as well.
Academic Rigor Pretty standard college level academic rigor. Going to lectures definitely makes a difference on how difficult your college experience will be, at least as far as your studies goes.
Tips for prospective students Make sure to bring a bike of some sort and actually attend class.
In three sentences It is a very versatile university that helps any kind of student accomodate with the six different colleges it has. Its academic advisors in each respective colleges always help when you need it. The environment such as weather and the people who go there are both really nice.
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Anna from Oakland, CA
06/30/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 2 people found this review useful. 34 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety If you're worried about walking back to your dorm late at night or really anytime of the day, we have campus escorts you can call toll free at 1-800-534-WALK. I remembered that from orientation. 1-800-534-WALK! There's also emergency polls, where you can push this button and it makes a loud beeping sound. Nearby cameras will focus on that area and see what the issue is and get security there as ASAP if the situation is real.
Clubs and Activities There are a bajillion different clubs you can explore from ethnic clubs, different interests, sports, student government. The list goes on. Make sure to take advantage of these as well or at least check them out!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Revelle college has an annual Watermelon Drop that they host on the top of Argo Hall (6th floor). We have a beautiful graffiti hall for students to express their creative side. We have a secret underground tunnel, but it's a secret.
What to do for fun Mexico is literally right across the border, about a 30 minute drive from campus. If you're feeling a little spontaneous and risky, plan a trip with some friends. Just make sure you all stick together and have your passports. It's a plus if you have a Spanish speaking friend. Downtown has a lot of 18+ clubs, sometimes with transportation for UCSD students! Check out the nightlife sometime. If you haven't already, the carne assada fries and the California burrito are necessary to try as a student. So do so! You won't regret it... Meet some students that are from San Diego so they can show you outside of La Jolla and really see what San Diego is about! The beach and the cliffs are only 10 minute walking distance, so take advantage of the beautiful scenery!
Food and Dining There are many different dining options for students. The best ones that students like to go to are Ocean View Terrance and Pines. The Bistro has sushi you can swipe with dining dollars too! Food is expensive but you'll be using your dining dollars. I highly recommend budgeting, because it's really sad when it's only Winter quarter and people are out of dining dollars. If that does happen, local grocery markets are only a few bus stops away and public transportation is free for students!
Dorm Life Every college within UCSD has its own feel and aura. You will meet all kinds of people from those who are really strange, those who have completely different financial, social status to people that you will get along with really well. It's super convenient to get from dorm room to classroom. Some colleges provide a kitchen so you can even cook your own meals if you miss home cooked food. You have lots of freedom, but make responsible decisions!
Academic Rigor If you're an social sciences major like I am ( and do not have an interest/ struggle in math or science fields) you'll have an easier time than Engineer majors. Math and science is no joke, but there is always academic support around! Classes are challenging, but meeting up with your TA/professor/mentor can always help your understanding on different subjects.
Tips for prospective students 1) Avoid eye contact on library walk. Everyday, students will be advertising for their fraternities, clubs and events. If you're not interested and are rushing to class, just walk with a purpose to avoid unwanted fliers or politely say no thank you, because no one likes to be disrespected either! 2) Meet other students and create study groups! They are extremely helpful and much easier to study for exam materials rather than cramming by yourself. No one likes a study buddy who does not contribute- do your share of the work too! 3) If you're worried about having friends at a new school, get out there and meet new people from different organizations you're interested in. You'll begin to meet people from different circles and also do productive things. Not everyone has the money, time or patience to join social fraternities or sororities. Campus clubs offer the same if not better social experience! You can also make new connections that could help you in a class you're taking or with a new job/internship.
In three sentences UCSD is in La Jolla, not San Diego- there's a big difference in the two environments where La Jolla has more wealthy, affluent people living nearby and San Diego has a more diverse population. People say UCSD stands for UC Socially Dead, but it's honestly what someone makes of their time here!
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Sarah from San Diego, CA
07/16/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 35 of 252
Categories Comments What to do for fun Beach is literally right across the street. Surfing. Museums. Downtown san diego. Belmont park. Sea world. San diego zoo.
Food and Dining I personally really liked the dinig hall foods. Especially pines which is located in muir college
Dorm Life Very convenient. Class is literally 5 minutes away.
Academic Rigor It is not impossible to get straight As. Just put in the time and effort and it is very doable.
Tips for prospective students I would highly recommend science students to attend UCSD. Since it is a big public university you will get what you put out.
In three sentences Great campus environment. Separated into six smaller colleges which allows students to get more individual attention. Great professors and student body.
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Emily from Hacienda Heights, CA
08/01/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 36 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety There's so many people everywhere, it's hard to not feel safe. Even at night there's people walking around. Also, campus security is always there to watch out after you.
Greek Life I'm not involved in Greek life; it isn't for everyone. However the people I know that are in it are very happy. It's always fun to try new things!
Clubs and Activities As I continue to say, San Diego has stuff for everyone. And if they don't, you can start your own club or activity! It's perfect.
Great for these types of students Everyone! I've met so many people from so many different countries. Everyone fits in somewhere, and everyone is happy.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God Festival! It's a huge music carnival. I know there's also one where students throw pumpkins off the top of one of the residential life buildings.
Bang for the buck It's expensive, but all California schools are at this point. For being such a renowned university, and not being private, it really is some nice bang for your buck.
What to do for fun Huge campus = a variety of students = anything you could possibly imagine. My favorite is the beach, however. Even when it's a little gloomy, the waves have the power to take your mind off of absolutely anything.
Food and Dining Campus is so large, there's places to eat for whatever your taste buds are craving! I've come across so many different places and types of food, and I haven't even explored the entire thing yet.
Dorm Life Living in a dorm doesn't sounds too appealing to me, that's why I love San Diego and the fact that it has suites. I'll only be sharing my space with 6-10 other people as opposed to a floor full.
Academic Rigor It can get challenging, seeing as how this is one of the top ten public schools. It's a university though! Classes and work should be challenging. That's what friends/suitemates/and class tutors are for.
Tips for prospective students I really suggest you apply! The academics are superb, and the location is to die for. I wasn't planning to go here, but now I couldn't be happier.
In three sentences San Diego is the most diverse, most accommodating school I have encountered. It truly represents students from all countries! At first I felt it was far too big, but then I realized that only means there is a place for everyone.
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08/28/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 37 of 252
Categories Comments What to do for fun Go to the beach! Make new friends, do new things. Learn new activities. There are so many things you can do here. Don't listen to people who say it's boring. Those are the ones who just look for fun in parties and booze, but don't know how to be positive and look for something to do to keep themselves busy.
Food and Dining All you can eat would be better, but SD really has us on health watch! Imagine dining halls as restaurants. Dining dollars are needed to pay for food. Each plate is portioned, but it's enough to fill you up.
Dorm Life What dorms can't use an improvement? But absolutely love everybody around me! HAs are nice, fun, and easy to talk to! People are really amiable so there are rarely any problems.
Academic Rigor Definitely keeps you on your toes, but it's a good thing. Keeps you in check and makes sure you learn. After all, you're going to college for education. Some classes can be a bit tougher but suck it up and get through, and when you look back, you won't think it was that bad.
Tips for prospective students Do not be afraid to try new options, especially those that you have never thought about actually doing but willing to take a chance. Acquaintances come easy, but real friends take more effort, so when you find a real friend, hang on to them. Don't lose yourself in growing up that you forget that you're here for academics. Make sure you balance both worlds!
In three sentences Definitely more on the nature-y side, but it is a positive and cheerful environment. Makes you learn to love what you have, and make the best of what is available to you. Staying in La Jolla for a while can be a bit boring, but then again, doesn't that happen everywhere?
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Victoria from Canoga Park, CA
08/28/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 38 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety There is a number you can call at any time of the day/night and a security officer will walk you back to wherever you need to go.
Clubs and Activities Join SOMETHING..anything. Find out what you are interested in and go to the meetings or events because this is an easy way of meeting new people and doing things you like to do. Also, they provide lots of volunteer opportunities and leadership roles that can look great on resumes or for grad school.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There is a tilted house up on the top of the Jacobs School of Engineering building. Make sure to go in and see it. Also, there are hidden gems on campus that people know about and visit from time to time. There's a graffiti room that anyone can tag in (legally) as long as it is done in there. There's also a giant red chair hiding behind the science building in Revelle.. and more.
What to do for fun There is a All-Campus dance at the beginning of the year and the famous SunGod festival at the end (both very fun and exciting). Also, each smaller campus (6 of them) have semiformals as well as fun events and activities that go on throughout the year. These are all free. Visit the International Housing, there is guaranteed someone friendly to invite you in for some fun. There is Porter's Pub where they hold concerts and shows. The beach is a 15 minute walk down from the Village at Torrey Pines. If that's not enough, there are busses that go throughout San Diego. Just make sure to bring your UCSD ID for bus access. Then, of course, there is always the frat and sorority events that are hosted every now and then, if you are interested in joining or if you know people who are in them.
Food and Dining For the most part, the food and dining suffices for your hunger needs. However, you will get tired of the taste and the menu at dining halls. Goodies, a Chipotle-esque dining hall, and Pines, a more upscale dining hall are the best. There is even a vegan/vegetarian restaurant on campus. If the dining halls are not good enough, there is Price Center, with other commercial chain restaurants like Burger King, Panda, Rubios, Subway, and more.
Dorm Life Dorm life could be the most awesome experience ever if you are open to letting it be. A lot of dedicated students stay in their rooms and study plenty but then again a lot of other students meet each other and have a good time, almost every day. It's exciting and cool because there are six different smaller colleges to visit within UCSD that different atmospheres. Depending on which college you get into, the Residential Life staff could be more strict than others when it comes to noise, partying, etc.
Academic Rigor A lot of students can get on academic probation easily with the high school mentality that they can pass without really applying themselves or trying. To get that A, it requires lots of studying and time-commitment. There are plenty of awesome teachers who make it easy to understand material but there are also those that do not. Make sure to go to class and read the textbooks!
Tips for prospective students Live on campus your first two years if you have the ability to do so. Not only is it convenient, but if you decide to live off campus it becomes harder to get a large amount of financial aid. Also, take advantage of all the free events and fun activities UCSD has to offer because there are plenty and you will need a break from studies from time to time. Also, most classes do not take attendance, but GO TO CLASS! It is going to haunt you at the end of it, whether you are smart or not smart enough to handle not going.
In three sentences As long as you put the right amount of energy and excitement in, UCSD can be the perfect balance of academic rigor and social fun. Professors and faculty of the school are genuinely interested in getting to know and helping students. UCSD isn't very diverse, but the students are super friendly and awesome.
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Nick from El Cerrito, CA
09/12/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 39 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety you could walk around naked with $100 bills taped to your butt and not get mugged
Greek Life I hear it's pretty fun, not my scene though.
Clubs and Activities take advantage of every opportunity that you have time to
Great for these types of students asian?
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sungod music festival is amazing
Bang for the buck can't beat the price for the education... unless you go to UCLA or UC Berkeley
What to do for fun everything's really far from campus
Food and Dining It's pretty bad, I don't recommend eating it unless you have to
Dorm Life meh, I had fun but it was difficult
Academic Rigor difficult
Tips for prospective students get ready to work hard
In three sentences It's an amazing school and anybody that gets in here, I urge to make sure that they take advantage of the opportunities that the school offers, don't just come here to take classes
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Tiffany from San Diego, CA
01/06/2013Reviewer is A past student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 40 of 252
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students who like to study hard, love the sun and the beach, and not mind walking a few miles to get anywhere.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sungod festival.
Bang for the buck UCSD is ridiculously expensive and the prices keep going up. However the quality of education is great and employers are impressed when they see where the degree is from. Fluff aside, most of my teachers also taught as SDSU.
What to do for fun There is a pub and pool hall on campus. There are also regular events that vary per college, including sports events, movie theater, movies on the lawn, parades, and of course sungod festival.
Food and Dining The cafeterias pretty much all have the same options. The variety is great as long as you don't go there for every meal. Sandwiches, soup, salad, sushi, junk food, etc
Academic Rigor UCSD is all about academics, and the classes are difficult. There is much to learn because most all the teachers have first-hand experience with their field. If you take the time to study you'l be amazed at how much you can actually learn.
Tips for prospective students Go to office hours as much as you can and build relationships with your profs. It will greatly help you in the long run.
In three sentences Great school if you actually want a great education. This is not a party school, so expect to study all the time, not party all the time. Campus and location are hard to beat.
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Student from La Jolla, CA
02/07/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 41 of 252
Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus We have our Sun God Festival every spring. It's a day of music, games, food, and awesomeness that has thousands of people coming from all over the state to participate in!
Bang for the buck Depends if you have financial aid. UCSD is very generous with their financial aid, and with federal grants and a small loan, I got over 95% of my costs waived. Without financial aid though, it's still a decent price.
What to do for fun Join clubs and get involved with them. Try to go out a few times a week at least. What you choose to do with your time is reflective of how much fun you'll have!
Food and Dining Dining Hall food is really a hit or miss, with misses happening more often than they should. The dining halls that are usually good are Pines at Muir...and Foodworx at Sixth, if you don't mind the same pizza, salad/wraps, and sandwiches served again and agian. The specialty restaurants like Club Med, The Bistro, and Goodies are great though!
Dorm Life Dorm Life really depends on the people in your dorm - they could be the most amazing friends you'll make all your college career, or not so good. For me, it was somewhat closer to the latter. They were friendly enough, but not enough to be more than acquaintances because of their morals and how they spent their time.
Academic Rigor The classes are hard, especially for engineering majors like mine. But that's what happens when you have a highly ranked school that well known for its engineering programs! Be ready for a lot of homework and tough exams.
Tips for prospective students Don't worry about GPA or high test scores. UCSD is fairly highly-ranked, but don't let that stop you from applying. UCSD is pretty fair with admissions.
In three sentences UCSD is really what you make of it. It could easily be a terrible experience if you stay with in your dorm all day with bad suite mates, or could be the best time of your life with friends all around, and lots of club activities to attend. Make your own choice!
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UCSD Student
02/25/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 42 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus is very safe. Every night a campus security officer patrols all the dorms to make sure everything is okay. Also, if you are walking somewhere late at night and don't feel safe, you can dial for a security officer to walk with you. They are friendly. Also, resources to contact for help are present everywhere, so either you find comfort in one of the many safety programs here, a security officer, or a hall advisor, they are all here to help you and make sure you know that.
Greek Life Greek life is prevalent here, but I do not participate in it, so I do not have any firsthand accounts.
Clubs and Activities There are many options of clubs and extracurricular activities that a student can try out. Fliers present on bulletin boards, dining hall tables, and dorms show the variety of hobbies students can partake in, where that be intramural sports, improv comedy, or major-related organizations.
Great for these types of students If you want a college that provides academic rigor, plenty of research opportunities, and present in a beautiful location, UCSD is right for you -- not to mention, it seems that everyone here is friendly and very welcoming.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Walking around campus, one will often come across different pieces of art. There is a smaller version of Stonehedge, a big teddy bear carved out of stone, and a house dangling over the edge of an engineering building, among other pieces.
What to do for fun You can get involved with the numerous clubs on campus, or you can find your own fun with the numerous locations around the La Jolla area such as the beach, downtown, Old Town, or the shopping areas. There are also intramural classes teaching different activities every quarter and intramural sports.
Food and Dining Due to the six college system at UCSD, there are six dining commons to choose from. In addition, there is a market for each college and numerous other dining areas dotted around campus. Roots, which provides vegan dining, was voted as the best vegan restaurant amongst the nation's collegiate vegan dining options! Also, UCSD has The Bistro, which is a high-end dining option that takes reservations and uses high quality ingredients.
Dorm Life Since UCSD has the six college system, the dorm life varies in every college due to the differing living arrangements. Living in John Muir college, it is very easy to meet new people since roughly forty students live on each floor. Large lounges on each floor and individual lounges for each two suites with a small kitchen area provides plenty of space for study sessions and social events.
Academic Rigor The academic rigor here is, no doubt, prevalent throughout the school. No matter which field of study one decides to pursue, the professors here are top notch and expect their students to be the best of the best as well. This is not to say that achieving good grades is impossible, because it is very possible. One just has to be willing to put in the effort every course deserves.
Tips for prospective students UCSD is an academically competitive university, but the students here are so friendly and helpful that one will not feel intimidated by the intelligence that pervades the school. Also, there is the beach across the street, a couple of large shopping areas around, historical Old Town, and the cultural downtown area -- don't study too much to the point where you will have missed out on all the great experiences these places offer. Having fun amidst the hard work makes your college experience all the more memorable.
In three sentences UCSD is located in a beautiful area. UCSD's community is lively and friendly, and to that I can also add that the school is not socially dead as the rumors say. Generally everyone who is going to UCSD or has gone to UCSD is/was happy with their experiences at the university.
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Claudia from San Diego, CA
09/14/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 43 of 252
Categories Comments What to do for fun First of all EXPLORE SAN DIEGO. theres downtown, various beaches and malls, balboa park,the zoo, seaworld, Tijuana,etc.. There is La Jolla Shores, La Jolla Cove, UTC mall a bus ride away and in campus join clubs, join greek life, get involved! UCSD is not Socially Dead, there is always something to do whether theres concerts at the loft or porters pub, movies showing at PC, IM sports, rec classes, anything! You just have to put yourself out there and look for things you like
Food and Dining Ehhh.. cafeteria food is and always will be cafeteria food. Dining halls at UCSD are not buffette style, rather they are a la carte. Which means that you pay per item, and you have a certain amount of dining dollars for the year. Small joke at UCSD that rather than gaining Freshmen 15 you get Freshmen-15.. DO NOT WORRY THOUGH. While the plan is designated so you dont really have 3 meals a day the whole year, they take into account that people will most likely not eat all 3 meals every day and that you might go home some times or eat out (plus students for the most part have snacks in their dorms). Students find they have left over dining dollars at the end of the year,and since they are non refundable after the academic year, they spend them at the convenience stores on campus or places where they take dining dollars and buy either food or items they might want. and for when you get tired of eating from the dinig halls, UCSD also has some restaurants and fast food chains. Take advantage of events at school offering free food. its FREE FOOD!!
Dorm Life Deffinitely an experience to take at least the first year if financially possible. You get to meet so many new people much easier than if commuting, a huge advantage for all of the resources and opportunities available on campus, plus it takes away the time that could be spent to and from school. YES, there is also downsides to dorm life.. like possibly (hopefully not!) roomate problems, living with many other people, dealing with other issues.. much less privacy than at home. But it is deffinitely a personal growth and learning experience that i HUGELY recommend!
Academic Rigor UCSD is challenging, and that is also in part because of the quarter system. Only about 50 days of instruction per quarter!! gulp.. however, you just got to make sure to manag your time wisely, go to lectures!! and stay on top of your academics, take advantage of all the resources the school offers!
Tips for prospective students Really research the schools. Take campus tours if possible! Try to picture yourself being a student there, what you would do etc.. Try not to let money be an issue, specially more during the application process, since later you can find out it might turn out to be cheaper than you expected. But most of all, and something i hanged on to dearly, chose a school that makes you feel at home/comfortable since you will be spending a lot of time there!
In three sentences A prime University and huge research institute and not just for the biological sciences. Located in a luxurious part of San Diego and right by the ocean. Whether research is your insterest or not, UCSD is deffinitely a school to check out.
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Cassandra from San Diego, CA
10/12/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 44 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety Scared to walk at night? Campus security will walk you anywhere whenever.
Greek Life Greek life- it's different then you think, all woman's green GPA is higher then the all woman's campus GPA! Greeks volunteer, study, and grow!
Clubs and Activities Greek life- it's different then you think, all woman's green GPA is higher then the all woman's campus GPA! Greeks volunteer, study, and grow!
Great for these types of students Everyone as long as you're willing to try your best
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The pumpkin drop in Muir and the watermelon drop in Reville.
Bang for the buck Definitely a great school
What to do for fun Clubs, Greek life, sports, get lunch at the bistro, walk to the beach.
Food and Dining Eat at pines.
Dorm Life Dorms are a bit small, Especially now. But campus life is fun and its broken into smaller communities to make the transition more bearable.
Academic Rigor It's a top university, we come here to be students and get the most of our education.
Tips for prospective students The quarter system moves fast, DON'T GET BEHIND. Office hours are there for you, go to the,, get to know your professor! The professor isn't scary they want you to do well and if they know you then they will be more understanding!
In three sentences This college requires hard work but it very rewarding. Everyone is academically focused and interested in bettering themselves academically. I have never had a professor I did not like and I find the pace and way of teaching to be quick and effective.
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Kristina from Escondido, CA
02/05/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 45 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety There could be more security guards because one time I was walking back home by myself around 3 a.m. from a friend's place, and I only saw one security guard for two miles of walking. I was a bit surprised, but they also have campus security guard escorts that you can call to escort you to your dorm. I should have taken advantage of that because it was terrifying to walk that late at night. It does not help when you are also afraid of the dark. This applies to students who are even at the safest of campuses: never walk alone in the dark. Always have a companion with you. When I would have to walk back home by myself, I would try my best to join someone I see walking in the same direction.
Greek Life There are many different fraternities and sororities to rush. Some are party fraternities/sororities and others are philanthropic. Others are a combination of both, and they do throw good parties.
Clubs and Activities We have a wide range of clubs, including pre-health honors societies, Asian clubs, Latino clubs, Disc Jockey clubs, and even concert organizing ones.
Great for these types of students UCSD is for open-minded students who want to experience something new. San Diego is a great city to live in, especially in La Jolla. There are so many things to do and experience.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Revelle college has a tradition called the Watermelon Drop every year in June. They crown a Watermelon Queen (either gender), and they get to drop a watermelon off the roof of a building, aiming at a target on the ground. There is a small concert venue called the Che Cafe. There are many private concerts with beginner bands. It looks like a run-down shack, but the ambiance is comfortable and fun.
Bang for the buck We are only a 20-minute walk from the beach and from the most beautiful places to hike and hang out. We also have many concerts on campus that are $10 or less. UCSD has a yearly music festival called Sun God, and we have famous musicians performing here! Last year, UCSD had Kendrick Lamar, Youngblood Hawke, and Portugal, the Man perform. They said that the upcoming years should be even better because of their large budget.
What to do for fun There are so many things to do here. The bus system is efficient, so one can go anywhere basically. I love walking to the beach with friends and playing volleyball there. Sometimes, I go on hikes and runs with my friends in Torrey Pines. There is a quick bus that takes us to downtown La Jolla where we can go and check out the famous sea lions and tide pools. The La Jolla Art Museum also has free admission for people aged 25 and under. There are many things to do on campus. I love going to the cheap concerts at The Loft, with music ranging from indie to jazz to classical. I have discovered many bands because of the weekly shows. The Zone also has free yoga every week, and on Thursdays, there are therapy puppies to play with when you are stressed or just want to cuddle!
Food and Dining There are many options for food on campus, like going to the dining halls in each college. My personal favorite is Pines in Muir college and Foodworx in Sixth College. You can order your own personally made pastas and pizzas. It is delicious! I love how they change up the menu daily for the adventurous ones, yet they have some things that do not change for those who feel comfortable with the same food each day.
Dorm Life The option to choose your roommates allowed me to dodge the possible roommate horror stories. I live in a renovated hall in Revelle, and I love it. It is beautiful here compared to other college dorms I have seen. There is a great sense of community, and you can also have some privacy if needed.
Academic Rigor The work load is demanding, but I find time to build a healthy social life and do things I love. It requires good time management and dedication to both things.
Tips for prospective students It is not always about the GPA. I worked hard to get good grades, but I also focused on things I love, like playing piano, volunteering, and learning new languages. If you show dedication to things you love, it shows that you could be dedicated to new things presented to you.
In three sentences I am extremely proud to be a UCSD student. Here, there are always new things to see, do, learn, and experience. I am barely finished with my second quarter, and I am already seeing a positive transformation in my maturity and outlook on life.
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Paul from Stockton, CA
04/13/2014Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 46 of 252
Categories Comments Campus Safety There doesn't seem to be a high crime rate. I would assume that it's a safe campus.
Greek Life I don't know anything about Greek Life yet.
Clubs and Activities There is a directory of clubs on UCSD's website, so you should be able to satisfy your interests and get involved.
Great for these types of students If you're not good at studying, I would advise you to increase your concentration and start small. You should make strategies for studying different subjects. For math, it's mostly memorization and lots of practice.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God Festival :D
Bang for the buck You should make lots of friends :D Get connections :D
What to do for fun I think you should walk to the beach and take long walks. You should enjoy the cool weather and maybe lay down.Check out the area and look for nice restaurants.Just explore San Diego.
Food and Dining I didn't really dine anywhere, but food is food. I don't really complain about where I eat. I will eat the food offered if I'm hungry.
Dorm Life I went into a triple dorm and I thought it was pretty spacious since you can have your bed raised above your desk or get bunk beds to make more room. You can adjust the beds essentially to make more room and to fit your needs. The rooms were very personalized as well. Make yourself feel at home :D
Academic Rigor I don't know what the level of difficulty is yet, but I do know that college is much harder than high school, so you might have to improve your studying habits. You will have to put in a lot of hours into your studies, but it will be worth it in the end. Your hard work will be rewarded indefinitely. You just have to believe in your self. You need to be self-driven and self-motivated.
Tips for prospective students I am an incoming freshmen, but my advice would be to knock out your GE's as soon as possible, so that you can focus on your lower and upper division courses and graduate on time. You can always take summer classes at a local community college to get your GE classes done for a cheaper price. I would also advise seeing an academic counselor and financial aid counselor; the more you know, the better. You also need guidance, which is a given.
In three sentences UC San Diego is in La Jolla, California which has amazing weather. UCSD is a top research institution. UCSD has a six-college system.
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Stephanie from Riverside, CA
05/18/2011Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.
0 out of 1 people found this review useful. 47 of 252
Categories Comments Bang for the buck Being a California resident, the price is right!
Will enjoy being here San Diego is a great place to be
Will learn a lot I am really interested in engineering, and this seems like it would be a great place to do that
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Eliana from Moreno Valley, CA
05/22/2011Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
48 of 252
Categories Comments Will enjoy being here The feel of the campus is amazing! I enjoy how laid-back the atmosphere is, yet it manages to maintain that scholarly background it is respected for. This has been my dream school ever since I visited it with my AVID class my sophomore year. The environment and students, from what I experienced, will definitely make my college years memorable.
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Nicole from San Francisco, CA
06/23/2011Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
49 of 252
Categories Comments Bang for the buck The campus is beautiful
Will enjoy being here When I visited this school I felt right at home.
Will learn a lot To me it seemed like an academic place rather then a strictly party school. It has a great balance of both and I really hope i get accepted here.
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Kevin from Monterey Park, CA
06/24/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students who are science majors should look to go to this school since its primarily a research university and there are tons of opportunities for people in those majors to work in labs, do internships before they apply to graduate school or get work. Even with it's primarily science-based focus, it is still recommended for many liberal arts and social science majors. The communities that form under these majors are so intimate that there are many leadership opportunities to take advantage of.
Am enjoying being here The weather is beach-worthy almost every day, it's REALLY close to the beach and the people are great. The only downside is that the university is actually based in La Jolla, which is not exactly a college town. Still, there's free bus service for a number of lines that can take students to places such as the Gaslamp District and even Downtown San Diego, so it's not like one is completely stranded in La Jolla.
Am learning a lot There are a wide variety of classes that one can take advantage of, depending on your major and your college's GE requirements.
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Giselle from Panorama City, CA
06/27/2011Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students This campus is great for all kinds of students.
Tips for prospective students This is a very beautiful campus. I think that choosing this college was my right choice. I'm looking forward to spending the next few years here learning and growing.
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Jessie from Escondido, CA
07/06/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Tips for prospective students As a prospective student I highly advise looking into all 6 colleges, as an underclassman the GE's are very different and depending on aspirations some may be better suited for some people then others. However, all of the colleges are great and provides its' own unique environment on campus. Despite initial separation due to having 6 different colleges the campus is really united and I believe a large part of that is due to student organizations. There are student organizations for nearly everything and if there isn't one you like you can create your own! My best advice would be to join something, anything student organizations are a lot of fun and you get to meet great people! In the classroom, most importantly show up for class. It becomes easy to sleep in or choose to hang out with friends and skip class just this one time, but showing up is critical. Just as important would be going to office hours. Professors and TA's love when you go to office hours! I've been given great advice from my TA's and am grateful to have taken the time to seek their help and gotten to them. Overall, UCSD is a beautiful campus full of amazing opportunities and friendly people. If you get the chance to go here and are still unsure check out the campus, you won't be sorry!
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Kyung rin from Huntington Beach, CA
07/21/2011Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students who like to mingle with new people Students who are majoring in biological science. Students who love the beach Students who love urban settings, and a large campus.
Tips for prospective students If you want lots of financial aid, don't slack off academically. It seems that UCSD has the tendency to give lots and lots of merit scholarship to students who are strong academically. In addition, be a well-rounded person, UCSD likes students who are well-rounded.
Bang for the buck For a middle class family, UCSD's tuition is not a cheap one. On top of that it seems that the tuition will be going up every year. However, the college experience at UCSD is same, if not better, as the 50k per year private institutions. Yes, UCSD is not a cheap as the community colleges, but you will definitely enjoy the college life.
Will enjoy being here I have talked to many of the students who are attending, will be attending, and had attended UCSD. They all enjoyed their college experience as at UCSD. I'm sure I will enjoy it just like them.
Will learn a lot I have attended the orientation and the welcome day. After going through all the orientation, you can be sure that you will not be slacking off here. Each college requires different GEs which will improve you to be a better student overall.
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Sweetwater Dude
08/06/2011Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Will enjoy being here The zoo and beach are nearby and the students are friendly.
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Lindsey from Spring Valley, CA
08/29/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students Athletes, pre-med students, surfers, and anyone looking for a diverse and prestigious school.
Tips for prospective students Make sure you attend class! On the quarter system, it is so easy to fall behind. The one time you don't go to class will be the one time the professor does an attendance check. Take advantage of office hours, teachers and TA's are there to help you and are happy to help you. Check with an advisor to make sure you are on track, because there are a lot of requirements and specifics that you may overlook.
Bang for the buck Although this school is pretty expensive, I have found that by speaking with someone at the financial aid office, I have been able to receive more knowledge on how the scholarship/loans process works. I have managed to receive a lot of money in scholarships after applying to them online. You just need to be prepared to work for that money.
Am enjoying being here There are so many diverse people here that I've really been able to make a lot of interesting friends from a wide variety of personalities. Although classes are hard, the TA's and professors really put in a lot of extra time to help students out. The advisors are extremely helpful and don't make you feel intimidated and will make sure you are on the right track. There's plenty of dances and parties to attend as long as you stay social during your time at UCSD! I absolutely feel like this is the right school for me.
Am learning a lot From day 1 you will already be learning the material. On the quarter system there is no wasting time because midterms are always only weeks away. Having said that, this fast-pace system doesn't really give you a chance to forget any material because you are always expanding on prior knowledge. I have learned so much in my first year of college.
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Anonymous from Milpitas, CA
09/22/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students UCSD is in a great location by the sea, so those who love outdoor activities, sports, and especially surfing will love the campus. UCSD also has a big focus on academics, so be prepared to work hard as well!
Tips for prospective students UCSD has a six college system, therefore make sure you spend a lot of time researching the six different colleges before you rank them in your application. Each of the colleges have their own set of GE's, and if you do not like your college's theme, you will be stuck taking GE's that you dislike. Also, make sure to ask around, because some colleges have harder GE's than others. I have heard that some students at Revelle College take five years to graduate because of their required GE load. I have heard that the colleges with easier GE's are Muir, Warren, and Sixth. Also be sure to actually visit the campus and the dorms before applying, and decide which college you actually like living in. Each college's dorm area and feel are very different.
Bang for the buck Most of the professors are really good, and I feel like I worked very hard on my classes, but I also learned real things from them that I can apply to my life. As mentioned before, UCSD is located by the sea and has great athletic facilities, therefore there are lots of recreation classes you can take for cheaper prices than anywhere else. However, I do feel that the dorm qualities differ from college to college.
Am enjoying being here The weather is great, the campus is huge, and there are many open spaces for recreational activities. The campus has great athletic facilities as well as access to them. Some say that the campus may be antisocial, but there is always a lot of events going on, and it just depends on whether you want to go them or not. Since there are six different colleges and a dining hall in each of them, if you are on a meal plan you have a large variety of food to choose from. However, since the campus is so big getting from one place to another may require lots of walking. Luckily, there is a good campus shuttle system!
Am learning a lot Definitely make sure to check your professor's ratings on http://www.ratemyprofessors.com/ before choosing any class. Most of the professors I had were great and very brilliant. I have had many classes where the course material we use is actually books written by the professor teaching the class.
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Andrew Weiczorek from Wenatchee, WA
09/23/2011Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students that want to learn a lot, students that like a coastal setting, and students that just want to socialize, be with peers, and exchange ideas would find this college a wonderful place to study.
Tips for prospective students New students should show academic rigor in their last year of high school. Don't get senioritis! Colleges like to see a strong work ethic.
Bang for the buck Being a public school, this school receives funding from the state, so you'll find that this school is considerately less expensive than private schools, and coupled with a good education system, makes this school worth the money.
Will enjoy being here Coming from a small town, I didn't particularly like the city setting, but I'm sure if you were so inclined, you would find it a fine place to get your education.
Will learn a lot From what I've heard, the professors at UC-SD are absolutely top notch, so I imagine that one would learn quite a bit at this college.
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Mindy from San Diego, CA
09/24/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Bang for the buck It's an expensive school, but it pays off for itself! The school provides free transit for their students! You won't need your car when you live on campus, because the transit system takes you to the mall, the grocery stores, and the restaurants. UCSD has three gyms, so there's plenty of room for you to take advantage of the weight room or awesome swimming pools!
Am enjoying being here There are many organizations and events that are at UCSD, so there's never a dull moment, the only key is to actually go out there and take advantage of those opportunities to meet new people and to experience what the university offers! The campus is huge and there are so many things to do. The residential life staff actually plans events often and provides rides to Disneyland, Big Bear, and Balboa!
Am learning a lot The fast pace of the quarter system that UCSD is using really forces the students to learn a lot of material in a short amount of time. The professors and teaching assistants here emphasize more on understanding than just pure learning, so the material is engraved in your brain, not just memorized for the midterms or finals. The school can be intimidating, but there is a lot of resources and help when material is unclear or when you need help with understanding it.
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Jennifer from Arcadia, CA
09/24/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students 1. everyone 2. students Enough said.
Tips for prospective students Do your thing. If you know you want to continue something, go for it! Sports, academics, clubs, it's here for YOU to grab and join.
Bang for the buck Honestly, I would give UCSD a 5 star rating, if not for the fact that the dining hall prices AND dining plan were so inflated. If you've been to Disneyland, imagine those sky-high prices, for your average plate of mystery meat. Also, books are VERY expensive at the bookstore. Facilities, teachers, and materials are generally worth it, so it's alright.
Am enjoying being here Hermits love it here. Party-ers love it here. Nerds love it here. Pretty much, any type of person you are (or want to be), this is the place. You can find all sorts of clubs, orgs, groups, fellowships here, and really, if you can't, you can start one and people WILL join. There's a diverse amount of people, not ethnically speaking, but culturally, and it's always great meeting those new people.
Am learning a lot 1. Science and math classes are pretty difficult. I'm saying this as someone who has taken a couple of those AP's, like calc, chem, physics, BUT, you do learn a lot. Homework is sometimes optional, and when it isn't, there's a lot of self-discipline involved in doing the work. 2. As for the other types of classes, they are generally manageable and if you work hard enough and actually study, those A's are DO-able! which is great for your GPA. What you learn depends on the TA's and professors, and how much interest you take in the subject.
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Christine from Henderson, NV
09/30/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Tips for prospective students It might be a no-brainer but go to all of your lectures! I've seen so many students say that they're only going to skip one class, and then that one class becomes multiple classes. Lectures are very important. Also, if your sections are mandatory, you must go. A lot of the TAs are very helpful and want you to succeed. The professors have their own office hours as well so take advantage of it if you don't understand the material or want to review something. You must take the initiative because professors and TAs will not come to you. You must go to them! For books, try to ask upperclassmen for their old books. If not, look on uloop.com for cheap books. The bookstore on campus is pretty overpriced, so try to save your money. Also, relax and just have fun! Make sure to find a community that fits you on campus.
Bang for the buck For me, I feel like I'm getting my money's worth because I'm receiving a lot of financial aid. Make sure you look for the opportunities to talk to the financial aid office to help you out. These opportunities don't find you, so be on top of it! On the other hand, I have a friend who has to pay full tuition. Even though it may be a lot of money, he says that he would have not wanted to go to any other school that he got accepted to.
Am enjoying being here I absolutely love the campus and the environment. There is always something for everyone at this school. There are so many clubs, community service projects, campus ministries, fraternities/sororities. There is no way that you cannot find something that fits you. There are always events going on, which guarantees that you will have something to do every night.
Am learning a lot Because of the six college system, I found myself in Eleanor Roosevelt College which focuses on becoming a global citizen. Since I am a biology major, I like that I get to take classes that are not all science related. I really feel like I am becoming a well-rounded student. I am also took a few political science classes last year, and I fell in love with it! I'm even considering in double majoring or minoring in it. I'm also looking forward to taking a jazz dance class which a friend recommended. Overall, my experience at UCSD has been great, and I can see that every department is successful. Even the TAs are very helpful. My writing class, poli sci stats, and poli sci TAs all were very helpful and would come on campus for you if you really needed it. Of course there will be that handful of not-so-good professors, but check rateyourprofessor.com and talk to upperclassmen! But for the general chem series, Sailor and Johnson were great! I also enjoyed Lake for political science.
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Bharvee from Fremont, CA
11/15/2011Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.
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Categories Comments Bang for the buck How much is the tuition for in- state students?
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Olimpia-Maria from Romania
12/28/2011Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has not been to campus.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students To enjoy a wamly, friendships-environment, it's great for every intellectual individual which is considered completely acknowledged about its healthy mind and body, because the 'Health is not just absence of disease from our body', it is much more. It is a state where one enjoys the best possible physical and mental state to live in. It is a not an easy goal to achieve but with our combined efforts we will achieve it. Continuing education on all of the life it's one of the fundamental rifgts of every humen being, towards the well-being of people and developments of the society.
Tips for prospective students It may be the most appropriate place for the scientists looking forward, expressing their solidarity with any work and study programs and finding these, hartening to be useful on the side of the ocean, for all the fife frther...
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Jennifer from Pomona, CA
12/28/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students UCSD is good for students that won't just expect college to be super awesome. It's really dead if you're going to think that way. The education is fantastic, obviously. But, your experiences will really be what you make of it. You and your friends need to go find things to do.. and it's really not hard. There are a ton of beaches around the school and art shows and just other fun things to do. The experience as a freshman would literally be getting to them because La Jolla is not a typical college town where things are walking distance. It'll be fun to figure out the bus system or having a whole gang ride bikes down to the beach, etc. Everyone finds their own group of friends.. no matter the type of student.
Tips for prospective students The campus may seem extremely big when you first visit.. and it is. But, it's a great school if you make it to be. Really, any college is going to be what you make of it. It's really cool that at this school, through all the hard working Human Bio students and all the Management Science kids, that there is an amazing visual arts aspect of the school too. You'll see a lot of random art pieces scatter throughout the school.
Bang for the buck Tuition has been getting more and more expensive with all the budget cuts and all so it's getting closer to the price of some privates. However, UCSD is really good for engineering and sciences mostly so if those are fields you are planning to go into, then this is a really respected school and it would be worth it.
Am enjoying being here It's really what you make of it. It might seem like there's not much to do around the campus but if you find a group of friends that you click with, you can do a lot of fun things. As a freshman, it's nice to explore the campus and hang out with your roommates and suitemates. If you're more into the party scene, you'll find greeks and other organizations for your taste and if you're not, you'll find organizations that fit you. It's all about being proactive and seeking out the things that will interest you.
Am learning a lot The university provides a variety of classes both for general education as well as the courses you would need for your major. So, you end up learning a what you need for your intended field as well as things you would just be interested in through the general education classes.
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UCSD Muiron
12/28/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students If you're studious, but also very social, this could be the school for you. Sure, there are a ton of people who lean more to one end of the spectrum than the other, but most people fall somewhere in the middle. The University of California, Socially Dead thing isn't all that true. I'll admit, the place to be for parties is still San Diego State University, if you're in the area, or UC Santa Barbara, if you can manage to drive up there for a weekend, but there are many parties here at UCSD. The best ones are usually off campus, though. That being said, if you are more of an independent spirit, into the whole co-op side of things, this place will be pretty dandy for you. It's not Berkeley, it's not Santa Cruz, but it's alright. There are tons of opportunities for you to be involved with other people who are more into your interests than the rest of your fellow UC San Diegans. And if you're more of the academic, studious type, Geisel Library is pretty awesome. That place has more study space than the university knows what to do with.
Tips for prospective students Learning all depends on you - I assume everybody knows that. Congratulations if you have been accepted to this university, not everybody gets in, but your acceptance doesn't mean you've got little to no work to do. If you don't go to class (and you depend on the podcasts) you most likely will not do too well. And going to class, for most people, will not suffice. You must do your homework, you must put in extra time studying, and you must leave time for sleep! Now, the nagging aside, I've had a nice time here. I took a diverse course load my first quarter. In my opinion, doing this keeps you sane. As an incoming freshman, you don't want to bite off more than you can chew. Seriously, take twelve units, give yourself the space to settle in, and don't worry about getting straight A's. That can be hard to do in college, especially during your first quarter with 5 courses and a seminar. If you're a musician, but not a music major, ensembles are something to take advantage of. There are also tons of clubs, tons of sports, tons of so many opportunities to socialize and express yourself. This place is nice for the artsy-fartsy type. And take advantage of the crafts center, especially if you're not too artsy but want to give it all a shot. Take advantage of your classes' discussion times, if you have one, and take advantage of office hours. Don't be so hung up on the college you have been enrolled in. I have it easy, I'll admit, I'm in Muir College – this college is great for everybody because the GE's are so, well, lax. But being in Muir doesn't mean you're going to actually have an easy time here. Warren has one of the hardest writing courses, from what I hear, and Revelle has the most science and mathematics requirements of the six colleges, but there certainly are perks to every community. The GE's should be the least of your worries. Anyway, once you start to meet people and make friends, you'll forget about being a miserable Sixth College student light years away from The Bistro. Be open to new experiences. If you're uptight, loosen up! Take every opportunity you can to experience as much as you can, but keep your limits in mind - don't take anything too far. And, keep in mind: success is all at your disposal (this goes for both social and academic).
Bang for the buck The UC system always finds a way to add more to your tab. Here at UCSD, you'll be paying for so many things you probably won't even care to have. But UCSD is much less expensive than private universities, and you get healthcare, a gym, food, etc. Anywho, at $30,000 a year, if you don't have the money AND don't even know what you're going to do with your life (in other words, you're only here to socialize at the expense of your parents' hard-earned cash), attend a CSU or community college instead. You can always transfer, and you'll learn just the same at any institution.
Am enjoying being here I understand the beach is one of UCSD's biggest selling points. That being said, the beach is right in your backyard - so take advantage of it! I'm a student in Muir College, so I think I can only speak for my fellow Muirons, but this place can be pretty gnarly if you're a surfer. Surfing before class is something to definitely be excited about, and if you live in Tioga or Tenaya, all you have to do is jaywalk across 4-lane traffic, walk through a neighborhood, down a hill, and you're at the beach. If you're not a surfer, the beach is still nice, too. Go for a run or a walk, or even take your homework with you and sit at the beach to work on it - it's really relaxing, very worth it. The art pieces on campus give a certain feel to your experience here. I personally like them, not necessarily for their art value, but because a scavenger hunt is always fun. And the numerous activities on campus are definitely something else to (also) take advantage of. Look around, you'll find plenty of opportunities to make your time here enjoyable.
Academic Rigor Some teachers can be great, and some TAs are better than the teachers themselves, but learning still depends on you. If you're in a language course, you'll enjoy the small class feel, sort of like being back in high school. It's a great opportunity to get to know other people, as opposed to being in a lecture hall. Discussions are very helpful, too. Now, if you're in a mathematics or science course, you will be in a lecture hall, with over 100 other students. It can be hard to focus, especially if you're taking these courses for GE credit, but many of them are podcasted so you can always go back to the podcast when you're studying or reviewing material. Also, most teachers and TAs are very readily available - taking advantage of this is a smart idea. I know it's a bit intimidating at first, but most teachers I have met are very nice, and they don't want to fail you! There are many intellectually stimulating courses you can take, and you will also come across both incredibly challenging courses and unbelievably easy courses. The learning environment here can be of both the traditional and unconventional type, it just depends on the teacher or the course itself. UCSD in itself is a nice place to study.
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Akul from Fremont, CA
12/28/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students outdoorsy, studious, big campus
Tips for prospective students study hard, plan ahead, lots of fun stuff to do on/off campus
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Lei from Carmel, CA
01/11/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun You can go to the beach, join a club, play a sport, go to the movies, get involved!
Food and Dining I usually just get sandwiches.
Dorm Life There's always drama, but if you find the right crowd, it becomes loads of fun.
Academic Rigor It's not easy.
Tips for prospective students Be prepared to work hard. It is considered to be socially dead, but I personally do not think so.
In three sentences UCSD is not very student friendly, so you need a car. Classes are difficult. If you make the effort, you will find something you enjoy.
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02/13/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety very safe campus. if you are out late you can call an escort to walk you back to your dorm.
Clubs and Activities so many clubs to consider. for the first couple of weeks all you see is booths for all the clubs.
Food and Dining the food is ok as long as you go to the right dining halls. some do not have the best food but most have great food . dining dollars are accepted in all dining halls and also the markets. as long as you watch your spending you will be fine.
Dorm Life this really depends on the college you are placed in. for example, erc has larger rooms but is far from everything. muir and marshall seem to be the top picks. making friends is easy when living in the dorms and you always have someone who can help you with homework.
Academic Rigor the classes are not too difficult as long as you keep up with the work. it really depends on the tas and the professors. look at the general requirement when applying to the colleges because some have many requirement that can slow you down.
In three sentences i love the fact that the university is divided into 6 different collages. it makes the transition in much more easier. the colleges almost feel like a little community.
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Gail from SAN DIEGO, CA
02/15/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety there are always campus escorts readily available every night. the campus police updates the entire school of any disturbances pretty well.
Greek Life there are no greek houses, and the greek community is nothing in comparison to much social schools such as ucla, usc, etc.
Clubs and Activities there are so many organizations to get involved in, and you can never join too late.
Great for these types of students sciences: biology, chemistry, bio-engineering, chemical engineering; mostly pre-med students.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus graffiti hall, and the stewart hall collection of art pieces scattered all over campus.
Bang for the buck especially if you are a science major, having this school's name under your belt will get you far.
What to do for fun the beach is right across the street.
Food and Dining let's just say its improving for the better.
Dorm Life i highly suggest living on campus for your first 2 years here, it gives you the opportunity to get to know everyone in your college and for the most part it sets your friends for most of your college career.
Academic Rigor the classes are hard, as a math major, so attend lecture, discussion, and office hours as best as you can.
Tips for prospective students ucsd lacks a strong social community, so find your own niche in clubs and organizations early on.
In three sentences this is a prestigious university and thus far has provided me with a long lasting education. courses can be tough, but it is all worth it in the end.
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Abdul from La Jolla, CA
02/23/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety campus safety are all around campus and student can be escorted by an escort from the library to the car whenever they please.
Clubs and Activities there are a wide array of clubs to choose from ethnic clubs to recreational and career driven clubs.
Great for these types of students student who want to pursue a great education and learn from some of the best professors schools have to offer. also for the sun and beach loving crowd that would get to enjoy the beaches of san diego.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus the campus has a complex underground tunnel that few people know about and sungod is the highlight concert of the year that many people from afar attend as well.
Bang for the buck the campus might be lacking in certain areas for prospective students but the city of la jolla and san diego in my opinion rank as some of the best locations in the world due to its night life and natural beauty. i feel like i am on vacation here all the time.
What to do for fun every quarter there are events and the highlight of the year is sungod in which they showcase some of the biggest performers from different genres as well. some of the big names i have seen are drake, big sean, wiz, and others.
Food and Dining food and dining is lacking on this campus. there are a lot of variety chain stores to choose from but the cafeteria is not worth checking out.
Dorm Life the dorm life is nice. a lot of the new dorms are brand new and its a great spot to start meeting people.
Academic Rigor professors here are all world renown allowing for you to learn from some of the most prestigious professors in their area of academia but it also translates to tough work
Tips for prospective students do not expect this to be a party school at all. its mostly work and little play.
In three sentences great school for academics and it resides in a beautiful city. the social life on campus is a little dull however due to the rigorous studies. i've grown to love it after the years.
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Tammy from Chula Vista, CA
02/25/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety there have been a few attacks.
Greek Life don't participate
Bang for the buck very expensive to park and books are outrageous in the prices.
What to do for fun scuba dive.
Food and Dining healthy alternatives as well as on the go food.
Dorm Life live off campus
Academic Rigor very challenging.
Tips for prospective students work hard and stay focused!
In three sentences highly motivated students and hard working professors. clean and well maintained campus. challenging course work.
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Raul from La Jolla, CA
03/14/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun surfing, running, exploring.
Food and Dining above average dining.
Dorm Life very comfortable and accessible.
Academic Rigor academically demanding and rewarding.
Tips for prospective students study hard and don't give up.
In three sentences enormous campus. great education. amazing people.
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Kyle from Bridgeport, CA
03/22/2012Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Food and Dining The food was okay, it wasn't anything special, it tasted like college cafeteria food.
Academic Rigor It's not easy to get into, that's for sure.
In three sentences The campus is incredible! It's in an incredible location, and the 6 colleges is a truly unique, and ingenious way to earn a degree.
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04/01/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety when ever you need it all day and all night.
Greek Life overrated
Clubs and Activities Fencing and archery are a lot of fun. Join a recreational sport because it is worth it!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Porters Pub is a great place to hang out. Oh and us ReMac (the gym) as much as possible.
Bang for the buck Try to buy your books online, and rarely use the book store. They over charge on campus for food and everything so don't buy stuff on campus unless you are using you dinning dollars. Remember though, you only have so much money on your card and that must last all year.
What to do for fun Go the the beach! Hang out with friends, or join a club. There is a lot to do on campus.
Food and Dining Some places are good while others are not. Goodies it the best for burritos and Muir plaza or Ocean View terrace are both really good to eat at.
Dorm Life It all depends on your roommates. If there are problems, work them out before they drive you insane and everything will be great. Remember, you are sharing a room so don't be too picky.
Academic Rigor It is difficult, but as of yet I enjoy most of my classes. All one needs to do if they want a descent grade is study hard and not stay up all night. Obvious right, but college life gets to you. Just remember to partition your time and balance a social life with good study habits.
Tips for prospective students Not nearly as big as it seems the first time you visit, so don't be intimidated. Geisel Library is very convenient when studying for finals, especially if you borrow from the library rather than buy textbooks. Also, never take five classes or over 21 units ever!
In three sentences Amazing atmosphere and people. Extremely close to the beach when one needs a get away from school. Also, the teachers are extremely welcoming and more than willing to help students.
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Enhao from San Diego, CA
04/01/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun Living by the beach is so good to relax the tiredness after studying. Students can Surf, swim and play beach sports. After class, students can also play pool at the entertainment center.
Food and Dining Since i live off campus i don't eat much in school. If tired of having meals in the dinning hall, you can always find restaurant in the campus which are convinient and fast. Campus does also have some coffe car that provides simple breakfast and drink.
Dorm Life Since i am a transfered student and living on campus is very expensive, i don't get a chance to experince the dorm life. However, living in dorms in UCSD are neat and fun. Student gets better to communicate by living such a way
Academic Rigor Like stated above, the major is tough to get through since one needs to focus and spend a lot on the studying to graduate. Professors here are high-level educated and very professional on teaching. The college also has big libraries open for researching and learning.
Tips for prospective students UCSD has a lot of clubs to join so student life here is rich and interesting. whether living on or off campus, the college offer programs and clubs to help students succeed academically and just for fun to meet other students.
In three sentences Taking a major as Structural Engineer is very tough while having a variety of upper division courses need to be completed here. However, UCSD provides a good learning environment such as good professors and a vast amount of books in the library. It also locates in an area that close to the beach thus students can find a lot of activities here.
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Catherine from Lancaster, CA
04/09/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety As a female, I feel safe on campus even at night. I have friends who always walk across campus in the middle of the night, unharmed. Even if you feel uncomfortable doing so, there are escorts that can accompany you to where you need to go.
Great for these types of students Students pursuing science and engineering or those who just love the outdoors are perfect for this school.
Bang for the buck UCSD's tuition is among the smallest of UC schools and of course, it's cheaper than any private school. For the education and experiences you receive at UCSD, your buck definitely has bang.
Tips for prospective students UCSD is really great for students who like the outdoors since there is much to do such as hiking, swimming, running, kayaking, surfing, etc. The weather itself is typical of that of any beach, and if you're considering the sciences or engineering, many resources are available to you at the university but that doesn't mean that if you are pursuing other subjects, there are none for you. UCSD is a highly-ranked school which is impressive for its short life.
In three sentences The University of California, San Diego is a highly-ranked institution that has a faculty of renown scientists and research professors. The university also has many resources for non-science subjects, and the campus itself is very representative of the art and culture from college students. Overall, UCSD is a wonderful are to live considering it's only a walk from the beach and that it has a reputable academic stature.
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Sandra from Menifee, CA
04/15/2012Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments In three sentences The campus, environment and people in UCSD give a comfortable feeling. I want to go here :) It's really nice.
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Maleenee from Manhattan Beach, CA
04/24/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun SUNGOD! That's the best event of the year. We also have a cool wellness resource center called The Zone that offers free wellness programs like yoga, cooking classes, and therapy fluffies. Definitely take advantage of all the opportunities on campus.
Food and Dining The food is good, and it isn't a swipe system, so if you're not super hungry, you don't have to waste a full meal. However the items are a bit pricey, but there are many organic options.
Dorm Life I lived in the Muir College Residence Halls and had an amazing experience; and I was in a triple! My roommates became 2 of my best friends, and my house advisors were extremely approachable and caring.
Academic Rigor In high school I was always at the top of my class and could easily study for a test the night before and be fine. At UCSD this is not the case. Time management is key and procrastination will be reflected in your grades.
Tips for prospective students Get involved. College is about learning, not just in the classroom! By joining organizations, sports teams, etc you will enhance you college experience greatly.
In three sentences UC San Diego is renowned academic institution that has competitive academics and research. In addition to its academic excellence, it has endless opportunities for involvement and non-academic pursuits like clubs, student organizations, volunteer opportunities, and work. It is also ranked number one is giving back to the community.
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Grace from Oakhurst, CA
04/27/2012Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.
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Categories Comments Clubs and Activities You have many opportunities to join a group there, make school events, and just have a lot of fun.
What to do for fun You can go surfing. You can go to the little parties that happen there, join groups, and go to the little job fairs that they have.
Food and Dining They school bucks for food. There are many places for dining.
Dorm Life Everyone there is friendly and you can make new friends.
Academic Rigor They teach you a lot.
In three sentences I think that this school is really amazing. They have a lot of culture. And they have a lot to offer at UCSD.
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shwe from San Diego, CA
05/04/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety great security.
Great for these types of students Laid-back beach lovers. A medium paced atmosphere. The nice thing about this school is most people are modest about their intelligence. I have met such diverse groups of students, and honestly underestimated some of their intelligence. I was happily surprised when I saw the same students in class actively participating and most of them smarter than me. It is easy to underestimate the students here since they do not usually show off their busy lives but they are all ambitious which is the type of school I like to be at.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus A giant wooden chair is moved around campus. Near Mandeville is a whole room covered in graffiti where students add new messages all the time. The sungod inspired by the Sungod statue in Muir has become the unofficial mascot of the school. Tuesdays have Farmer's markets with great food which is a nice break with friends in between classes.
What to do for fun Much of the fun is off-campus in malls and restaurants. Many students complain about this aspect of UCSD and I felt it too at first. However, I visited Berkeley and the same is true there as well. Besides their frat row, there is not much to do but to enjoy your time with some friends and eat some good food. San Diego beaches are also amazing so it is always fun to do that. Once every few years you can go to the beach at night to view the blue bioluminescence, an amazing phenomenon. Onbroadway club in downtown holds many events for students. In addition, UCSD has many on-campus dances and concerts which host many cool new indie bands. The Sungod festival is the annual favorite of all students and has in the past featured headliners like Wiz Khalifa, Drake, T.I. and many more, all artists who went on to be best selling artists after performing at our school. Far East Movement was also present at the 50th Anniversary and this year we had the chance to see the Dalai Lama as well as Conan O'Brien.
Food and Dining My favorite, Goody's, has great fresh made burritos that are made Chipotle style as well as ready-to-go parfaits, pasta salads and cheesecakes. Foodworx is not a dining hall but has great pizza, salads and wraps. OVT has great breakfast burritos. The food at Pines needs improvement. Overall food is fine, but will get repetitive as at most universities.
Dorm Life I was in Sixth and this left me at a great disadvantage since the dorms are spread away from the other colleges, the 1st year res halls are 2 story buildings and it the smallest college. All these traits, I felt translated into me not fitting into my college too well and I do not believe the arrangement really fostered as much interaction. Students who like the house-like setting and 2 story arrangement (1 floor is girls, other is boys) will enjoy this very much. I prefer suite style living also but in actual buildings with co-ed floors and this was present in other colleges. Also, I have many friends in other colleges meaning it is not impossible to do so but the colleges are very spread apart so one really must make an effort.
Academic Rigor I cannot speak for all majors since I have only taken lower-division classes in those fields to complete general education requirements. For biology and chemistry majors, the academic rigor is quite challenging for the upper-division classes. If the right professors are chosen, the course-work is difficult but I did not mind as the professors were so insightful and I finally felt I was learning something new and practical.
Tips for prospective students A great school for any student going into biological science as the professors are amazing, including nobel prize winners, and great opportunities on and off-campus for research and employment. The six colleges will not greatly affect your major or your future career path but generally it is better to pick the colleges based on the vibe and personalities they are known for, since it is thus easier to meet more people like you. For example, Sixth has a greater percentage of art related majors while Revelle has many more pre-health students.
In three sentences A university with a collaborative yet laid-back feel defines UC San Diego. It may be easy to cast it aside as a socially dead school not on the same level as UC Berkeley or UCLA but you will easily be proven wrong. It is a perfect school for the student who likes to explore and truly learn in one of the world's top and fastest growing research universities.
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Michaela from Cupertino, CA
05/10/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Never has any issues.
Clubs and Activities Triathlon was great. Also recommend Foosh, and improv club. If you're into theater, try the Vagina Monologues: you'll meet a fantastic group of strong minded women.
Great for these types of students Independent worker Strong sense of competition Intrinsically motivated
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Get involve in the student food coop. Most down to earth, kombucha loving hippies.
Bang for the buck (less as tuition rises...)
What to do for fun Pick up an outdoor sport! I recommend triathlon if you have the money to buy a road bike. Going for runs or rides along the coast kept me sane throughout my studies.
Food and Dining There is a large variety of foods. Although I don't have comparison to other college dining halls, I survived as a vegan, so it's good enough!
Dorm Life I recommend living in the international house! Most lively place to live on campus and extremely close to the beach :)
Academic Rigor Classes can be tough, but often worth the effort.
Tips for prospective students Do not be overwhelmed by the large lecture halls. If you got into the school, you have to stake out your claim and prove to your professors why you're worth their time (and you are). It's rewarding when you're successful.
In three sentences This university is large and science heavy in academics. If you are not scared of large lecture halls and have the guts to speak to professors even though you're one in a hundreds, this isn't a bad place for you. Since it is such a huge science research institution, there are abundant opportunities to work in labs of all kinds.
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05/12/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety UCSD has its own campus police and if you ever feel uncomfortable walking somewhere at night you can call a special service to drive you back to you dorm. UCSD reflects the surrounding area of La Jolla which is a very affluent and safe town.
Greek Life There is no Greek row due to the surrounding cities disapproval, but there are numerous opportunities to become involved with Greek Life such as volunteering, hosting events, etc.
Clubs and Activities Student Clubs, Gym Facilities, Recreational Sports, Student Government, and Greek Life (with the exception of Greek Row).
Great for these types of students Biological Science Majors, Engineering Majors, and Marine Science Majors
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Watermelon Drop, Sungod Festival, and Six college system
Bang for the buck UCSD is recognized as an extremely prestigious school and is perfect for anyone wanting to focus on biology, engineering, or oceanography.
What to do for fun The campus is across the street from the beach so you can go surfing, or sunbathing in a moments notice.
Food and Dining Most UC's have a weekly meal limit on dining with the exception of UCSD. UCSD has a system where you only pay for what you consume. It helps to ward off the freshman 15! There's no problem finding a spot to eat on campus as their are markets, dining halls, kitchens, restaurants and bars located all around campus.
Dorm Life I highly suggest living in the dorms throughout college. It makes it that much easier to be social and have a great college experience!
Academic Rigor UCSD has very intelligent, academically competitive students.
Tips for prospective students Study hard and keep those grades high, but don't forget to have fun and do what you love!
In three sentences UCSD is a premiere research university that resides in beautiful La Jolla, CA. It has myriad opportunities available for students and is just a 20 minute walk to the beach. It's a great location which is both beautiful and inspiring.
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Kismatdeep from El Centro, CA
05/12/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus is very safe, I have never felt threatened.
Greek Life The Greek Life here is very exclusive, you must be part of the greek system to join their parties.
Clubs and Activities There are clubs and activities everywhere, the oppurtunity to join a club is always available.
Great for these types of students Studious Fun Seeking, but still serious about their schoolwork.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The graffiti hall as well as the General Store and Food Co-op are great places to hang out.
Bang for the buck The school in general is very expensive but there are free activities everywhere.
What to do for fun Long boarding, Surfing, outdoor activities.
Food and Dining The dining halls are very good, but you may run out of dining dollars so be careful.
Dorm Life Dorm life can always be challenging, but if you are paired with the right people they can be your best friends for the rest of your life.
Academic Rigor The school work is very hard and you need to apply yourself. Keep your eyes on the prize.
Tips for prospective students Make sure school always comes first and that you are comfortable with the situations you are in and the people you hangout with. You are who you hangout with.
In three sentences It is fun, if you make your own fun. The atmosphere is exciting yet it still feels like a home away from home. Everyone is friendly and ready to help you adjust.
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Kiana from Torrance, CA
05/16/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There is a room filled entirely with graffiti art. There is also a Sun God statue on top of an arch which is where the Sun God Festival gets its name from. It is said that if you walk through the arch during finals week, you'll pass. There are also quarterly undie runs and there is an annual chocolate festival.
Bang for the buck Tuition has gone up substantially to the point of where all schools are ridiculously expensive. I believe that UCSD has a great curriculum and knowledgeable professors that do give you what you pay for to some degree, especially in the science subjects.
What to do for fun There are many events on campus including dances, music festivals, plays, and club events. The beach is also extremely close. Students are provided with bus passes as well so public transportation provides a way to get to San Diego.
Food and Dining There is a large variety of dining locations on campus. Most of them serve good food and have a lot of choices. There is even a restaurant-style dining hall and a vegan restaurant. I also like that the food isn't buffet-style and that dining dollars can be used at markets as well.
Dorm Life Dorm life varies depending on where you live. Apartments tend to be a little quieter than dorms but there are always events to attend and opportunities to be social.
Academic Rigor This depends on the student and the classes he/she chooses to take but most courses require a lot of work and there is no time to slack off.
Tips for prospective students Learn to manage your time well.
In three sentences UCSD has an excellent science program and good curriculum. The six-college system is unique and sets this college apart from other universities. The environment is very relaxed and the school is next to the beach.
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Emily from Escondido, CA
05/16/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun Many places surrounding the La Jolla area as well as on campus. Concerts, kayaking, surfing, and the list goes on.
Food and Dining There is a great selection of food places on campus for every food type!
Academic Rigor Classes at UCSD are meant to challenge you, so be prepared to work hard!
Tips for prospective students I would recommend that students work hard to recieve scholarship money. Also, I would tell future students to make sure they have enough time to walk between classes as some of the buildings are very far apart. Also, remember that many of the teachers for undergraduate classes are actually Grad students so they are not all very used to teaching in a lecture.
In three sentences UCSD is a great university who is dedicated to students. I have been happy with most of my classes and professors. I think that they are doing a good job listening to their student body.
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Mariela from San Marcos, CA
05/17/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus is very much safe there are emergency stations that you can utilize all over campus to call campus police if you are in danger and there are also students that work for campus security and can walk you to your home on campus if you are alone and it is late at night.Overall the campus is very safe and offers many safety resources.
Greek Life There is no fraternity and sorority row but there are a multitude of fraternities and sororities on campus that really make the social life on campus.
Clubs and Activities There is Model United Nations, Key Club, volunteer clubs and many more clubs, sororities and fraternities.
Great for these types of students Great for students that want an academic challenge and are looking for a great education and rewarding opportunities.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There is the Che Cafe which is a very liberal and vegan cafe on campus. Of course Sun God is a great musical festival every ending of the year that truly makes UCSD unique.
Bang for the buck You definitely get your moneys worth. UCSD has one of the best educational curriculum and opportunities such as on campus jobs, internships, academic advisers and great counselors and programs that make the college experience less stressful.
What to do for fun Sun God is a great festival to go to at the end of the year. There are also sporting events to go to, music events, dances and overall becoming involved in clubs to meet people and explore San Diego.
Food and Dining The dining halls are all very unique according to the college that they are part of but they all have various types of food accessible to all students, although sometimes the food may not be the best.
Dorm Life I very much recommend dorm life. It is a great experience in which life time connections and true friends can be made and overall due to the fact that UCSD is an expanded university it is much easier to meet people and have a balanced social life if students live on campus in dorms.
Academic Rigor Analogous to all other universities and places of education, it is only truly difficult if the time and work are not put into the courses and topics studied.
Tips for prospective students This university is very much grand and continues to expand but it is a great college to get into due to all the available opportunities and all the academic staff there truly care about their students. their education and their health.
In three sentences An expanded college that spreads education and opportunities around San Diego and beyond. It is accepting of many cultures. Overall diverse, academic, and free.
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John from San Diego, CA
05/20/2012Reviewer is A past student here.
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Categories Comments Greek Life None
Great for these types of students Proactive Students who actually worked to get into school, and cherish the opportunity to have an education.
What to do for fun Study.
Tips for prospective students Don't expect the school to pave your future for you. It gives you a degree, what you do with that degree is entirely up to you.
In three sentences Overpopulated school too concerned about its public image rather than the students that attend the school.
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Ashley from Covina, CA
05/24/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus safety is very important here as seen by many campus officers patrolling campus on a daily basis. There are also a lot of emergency buttons placed throughout campus in case you need help, but do not have any other way of calling anybody. There are also officers who will walk you during any hours of the day if you feel unsafe for any reason.
Greek Life Greek life is huge on campus and each organization has their own philanthropy and holds a number of events per year. If you like being social and want to get to know a lot of people at once, greek life is definitely for you!
Clubs and Activities There are so many clubs and activities that it is hard to name them all. From stitching and crocheting clubs to church organizations to volunteering clubs. Whatever you like to do, I am sure that there is an activity for you on campus!
Great for these types of students Great for students who know how to balance school and social or campus-wide events. Also, if you like nature, there are many places to study outside or on the beach about 5 minutes away!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There is an annual Sun God festival in May in which many new artists come and perform! There are also many dance floors and food booths. On campus, there are also many random pieces of art including singing trees, a snake path, and a Sr. Seuss Statue.
Bang for the buck The campus is beautiful and each of the six colleges has a different atmosphere. The gym is also free for students and so is public transportation. There are also a large number of events that are really fun and give out free food and little souvenirs.
What to do for fun There are a LARGE variety of activities on campus including clubs, sororities and fraternities, varsity sports, club sports, intramural sports, recreation classes, and close shopping areas around campus!
Food and Dining There is a large variety of food on campus and most places are very good! However, some dining halls and markets are more expensive than others.
Dorm Life All dorms are suite-style, which make it feel a little bit more like an apartment. There is more privacy and an increased amount of bonding within your single suite. Outside the suites are also lounges that are shared with other suites, allowing you to meet more students. (:
Academic Rigor The professors expect a lot out of students and good study habits are essential. However, there are many tutors and extra professor office hours that allow you to get help if needed.
Tips for prospective students Get involved in as much as you can in order to help you determine what you like to do and what kinds of people you like to work with. This is very helpful for future careers and finding your own interests, some of which you may never have known you had.
In three sentences The classes are large, but there are many additional resources to take advantage of that will help you succeed. The professors are very approachable. There are also many campus activities that can help you become an involved student here on campus!
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Rachel from Castro Valley, CA
05/27/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun BEACH
Food and Dining I don't eat at the cafeterias since they are overpriced and not delicious. I just eat at a restaurant on campus although there is Farmer's Market on Tuesday and Indian food on Wednesday and International food on Fridays.
Dorm Life Depends on which of the six colleges you dorm at-some have amazing architecture, some have not very good cafeterias.
Academic Rigor Really smart & nerdy students here.
Tips for prospective students Be social and out of your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to give out your number or participate in activities.
In three sentences If you're looking for ideal weather, lots of opportunities to give back to the community and the environment, and smart classmates then UCSD is the place to be.
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Abigail from Winnetka, CA
06/04/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Always walk where there is light. Even though we're in La Jolla there have been attempted kidnappings and rapes. Walk in groups.
Clubs and Activities Broaden the types of clubs you check out. UCSD have every club or activity you can think enjoy. I really enjoyed ballroom dancing club.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Pub is my favorite on campus bar because it has fun activities (shows, performing artists, bands, etc) and the environment is very chill. Check out SunGod Festival held every year at least once. Check out the color run!
Bang for the buck I'm going to say that UCSD is worth every dollar, but everything is just getting more expensive. Always try to wait before buying your textbooks because most classes I've taken I've not really needed the books.
What to do for fun Check out activities offered by RecLife and the gym. Explore the area with friends! If you don't have a car, the buses can take you lots of places!
Food and Dining Generally, campus food in the cafeterias don't taste all too good, but are better than other campuses. Each college has their own cafeteria and markets. Explore and find out which you like more!
Dorm Life Generally, people are loud and inconsiderate. Pick your battles and don't let everything get to you. Stick with the people you feel more close to and get along with.
Academic Rigor General education classes are not that bad, but lots of memorizing and take up lots of time because of the tedious busy work. Major classes are more fun but also more difficult. Go to office hours and TA sections for help!
Tips for prospective students I suggest taking some time and trying to figure out what you'd like to do before going here so you can take advantage of everything that is offered. There are lots of internship and research opportunities and you just need to ask professors and be diligent. Also take your time and enjoy the wonderful San Diego area with outdoor activities!
In three sentences UCSD is an excellent environment to explore possible careers by providing many opportunities for internships, research experience, and work experience. The faculty and staff are all very nice and welcoming to student questions and suggestions. The people here are all very nice too!
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Taylor from Ramona, CA
06/06/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety It's in a really nice part of La Jolla, so you feel really safe walking around. If it's late at night, though, or you just don't want to walk alone, you can call campus security and one of their employees will accompany you for free.
Clubs and Activities The only reason I'm giving UCSD five stars is because it has a Quidditch club. How awesome is that? Yes, I am a Harry Potter nerd. Anyway, there are hundreds of clubs to choose from so there's something for everyone.
Bang for the buck UCSD is expensive, even for in-state students (this year tuition + room/board is about $24,000) but it is still considerably less expensive than private colleges. But I'd say you get the same quality education (even better in fields like bioengineering) for the price.
What to do for fun Go to the beach! From Eleanor Roosevelt College, it's like a five minute walk. There's a mall nearby too.
Food and Dining Each college has its own dining hall, which is nice. You can still visit any of the dining options on campus, though. I've only eaten there once so far and it was pretty good (not amazing, mind you, but definitely not awful). The dining dollars are great because you don't have a set number of meals you can purchase during the year. You can buy small or large meals like you would with cash or a debit card.
Dorm Life When I visited, I was shocked that I actually liked the dorms. They're set up suite style, so there's a main room bordered by a bathroom and five or so rooms. That way there isn't just one long hall with a shared bathroom at the end; you have the opportunity to become really close friends with your suite-mates.
Academic Rigor UCSD's bioengineering program is one of the best in the nation. I'm not as familiar with the other programs, but I understand that they are just as rigorous and rewarding.
Tips for prospective students Check your deadlines and get things done early. This includes everything from the initial application to housing to orientation. College is expensive enough; you don't want to be charged extra late fees.
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Cheyenne from San Diego, CA
06/08/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Rarely do we ever hear of any crimes occurring on campus.
Greek Life Greek life here is great. The social life within the greek system is great.
Clubs and Activities As a founding father of a fraternity, and a founding officer of a club, I know that there are tons of on campus student organizations. There is an organization here for everyone.
Great for these types of students Honestly, it is great for all types of students. But especially for students who care about their academics.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Muir College. You will always find some new secret or hidden location.
Bang for the buck The experience and education I have received from UCSD has been priceless.
What to do for fun Right on the beach, there is not much more to say than that.
Food and Dining I could attend UCSD for 10 years and I still would not have eaten at all the places to get food.
Dorm Life I do not live in dorms, but I have seen the transfer housing which is new and it seems great.
Academic Rigor Classes are not easy, but they are not always supposed to be. Prepare for a challenge, but to learn a lot.
Tips for prospective students If it's your first time entering a school that runs on a quarter system, then prepare yourself because it's faster than you could ever imagine.
In three sentences Wonderful campus right by the ocean. The professors make the education earned at this school one of a kind. UCSD makes opportunities endless for its students.
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Milad from El Cajon, CA
06/18/2012Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety It is very safe.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Sun God event is the coolest that the students get away from the world.
What to do for fun Everything that comes to mind can be done easily with too much fun.
Tips for prospective students The best thing to do is to schedule a tour to better look at UCSD.
In three sentences It my favorite University from my point of view. It offers a high academics with of its majors and it is very clean and beautiful campus.
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Douglas from SAN DIEGO, CA
06/22/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students Who have a little cash, and a lot of energy. Not for the weak willed.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God. Period.
What to do for fun Everywhere outside of the campus. There is no college town, but if you have a friend who has a car, or a day to spend on the bus, the city is your oyster. Clubs, Beaches, concerts, great food, lots of activism, lots of little hole in the wall places, Downtown, Old Town, Hill crest, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, you name it, we got it (except for snow and horrible weather)
Food and Dining The reason why I'm so glad I enjoy cooking. Freshman year was the hardest as the entire building had to share a kitchen, and the food was expensive and not worth the calories. Second year was better as I could actually cook my own food, but the dining halls were still mediocre at best. Fortunately, they had salad bars and decent restaurants on campus.
Dorm Life I lucked out, since I had 11 other roommates freshman year, but it can get boring on the other parts of campus. 2nd year was not planned well by the staff, as they forced me to join a dorm that had extremely different people in it. The rooms themselves are nice, unless you get a triple (no room at all).
Academic Rigor Early undergraduate grades are more about doing projects and essays. Upper dividion (later undergrad work) is more on mid-term/ tests. 10 weeks of knowledge makes the courses stressful and take up a lot of time
Tips for prospective students Network, Find an older student to help you, make friends with your classmates that are in your department, and never waste an oppertunity.
In three sentences Very normal college, in the sense that we are not super party school or are a school of super nerds, since we all have our own tendencies. The school tends to push us, and it stresses a lot on grades, which can get stressful, but it is still a fun school. There are a lot of opportunities that arise from here and from going here, after one graduates
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Riley from Oakhurst, CA
06/27/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun Price center theater shows $3 movies on campus. They don't sell snacks but who cares? Bring your own popcorn and nestle into the comfy seats with friends.
Food and Dining Plaza has horrible food and you always risk food poisoning when eating there. That being said, the other dining facilities are great. Each college has its own mini market that is open til 1 a.m. which is fantastic, especially during finals. Coffee breaks are a must.
Dorm Life Dorms suck but the apartments are much better. Remember to bring a good desk lamp. The housing lights seem dim on older buildings.
Academic Rigor Academic rigor depends on the major and the type of grades desired. If you are a communications major, you will spend your days watching movie clips with lots of free time. If you are a mechanical engineering major, you will never sleep and constantly feel inadequate.
Tips for prospective students Study for your classes in small, frequent segments. The quarter system moves quickly so you have to be on top of things.
In three sentences This is not a party school but you can find parties if you so choose. There are always great activities and events going on around campus so keep your eyes peeled. Plus, the location is AMAZING!!!
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Leslie from San Diego, CA
06/28/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety There is an escort service where someone walks you to your dorm whenever it's late/dark and you don't feel comfortable walking through campus alone.
Clubs and Activities Many clubs aren't organized enough to get many things done.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Every Halloween there is a pumpkin drop in Muir where a giant pumpkin is dropped from the top floor of one of the res. halls.
What to do for fun Site seeing: Go to the beach, visit Old Town or Downtown San Diego. Sea World is also close by. Balboa Park has many museums; There are also many hiking trails.
Food and Dining Most of the time it tastes good, but I wish there were healthier (but tasty) options.
Dorm Life Difficult to click with everyone in your suite (but that's probably the case at any university).
Academic Rigor General education classes don't necessarily make you well rounded. Grades are usually curved.
Tips for prospective students Choose your college wisely!
In three sentences Location is great, but it's difficult to get around without a car. The language program is great and everyone should sign up for a language class if possible. Staff could be more helpful (not referring to professors).
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Brittney from North Hollywood, CA
07/01/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun Fraternity parties, school organizations
Food and Dining not so good, but the fact that you get dining dollars when you live on campus is very convenient
Dorm Life You do not want to live in the dorms at UCSD. Maybe in ERC, but not in Revelle College.
Academic Rigor Very difficult, but worth it
Tips for prospective students Be prepared to work hard, and it is difficult to achieve good grades. Make sure you stay on top of your schoolwork, because it is easy to fall behind. It is hard to make friends on this campus so if you find a group that is right for you, keep them.
In three sentences There are very well educated students here that are hard-workers. All of the students are intelligent, however not all of the professors care enough about teaching the classes. High academic standards, and is good if you are up for a challenge.
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Roger from Monrovia, CA
07/07/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus is located in a great upscale, somewhat ritzy neighborhood that makes for some great safety besides the occasional on-campus weirdo.
Greek Life I would say that the Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) organizations have more to offer but whatever you are looking for you can find it here!
Clubs and Activities Like I said earlier there are a lot of student organizations to get involved in! I would definitely recommend Greek life (fraternities and sororities) even if you haven't thought about it before. Above that I would say be sure to check out the multicultural Greek organizations - they have more to offer.
Great for these types of students Really, any type of student, you just need to find your place here and it really isn't that difficult.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Definitely participate in the Undie run on the Wednesday of every finals week! A very unique experience running through the library and across campus in a huge group of people all in their underwear!
Bang for the buck Make sure you look into scholarships in addition to the grants and loans that the government and school provide. #1 tip: go to office hours - it helps more than I can say. #2 tip: college is an experience not just an education, make sure you have that experience!
What to do for fun Go to the beach! Go GREEK! Fraternities and Sororities are loads of fun, make sure to check them out even if you never thought that you would join one. I never thought I would but I am absolutely loving it now!
Food and Dining Honestly, the on-campus fare isn't extraordinary and tends to be overpriced quite a bit. Dining halls are okay and are extremely convenient but I recommend the general store for some decent prices.
Dorm Life The dorms can be a really fun place and experience for your first year, I would definitely recommend it. Its a completely new experience and you'll always have stuff to do, people to do it with, and just generally people who are down to go have fun whenever!
Academic Rigor The school has many different majors though most students tend to be biology-related. Professors are usually not great lecturers but it is vital to attend one-on-one office hours with the professors because all they really want to do is help you. Classes can be challenging, but definitely not overwhelming.
Tips for prospective students Make sure you shake off your senioritis before coming here and try to not be intimidated by the size of the school. It has a beautiful campus and a friendly student body once you get to know some people. Tips: go to office hours (!), come in with an open mind and ready to enjoy some fun in the sun along with a once in a lifetime experience!
In three sentences UC San Diego is a great school academically but the environment is definitely unique. It is a competitive environment with the school mainly focused on research while most students are majoring in something biology-related and are focused on studying and beating out fellow students on the curve grading scale. Academically it is a great school and socially you can find a niche-I suggest joining a student organization but I definitely enjoy it here.
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Amanda from Ray, MI
07/08/2012Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety How safe is the campus and how much do you hear about stuff happening?
Food and Dining Is the food good and how expensive is it?
Dorm Life What is the dorm life really like?
In three sentences Just wanted to know what the atmosphere was like and some personal opinions on what the school is like.
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07/08/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun There are buses that take you off campus which is convenient, but time consuming. Having a car is a definite must if you want to do anything in La Jolla/San Diego without wasting your time. The beach is really close by. There are hiking trails next door. Shopping malls and grocery markets are within reach. Downtown San Diego and Old Town are definite places you want to get to see.
Food and Dining Dining halls on campus are not the best and they are overpriced. Meals get repetitive after a while and you end up wanting to simply cook your own food.
Dorm Life Regardless of which of the six colleges you are affiliated with, dorm life is not the best. It's definitely an experience worth going through, but once it's over, you will take a sigh of relief. Dorm life is great to meet new people in your suite and on your floor. It also teaches you how to tolerate other habits, and come to understanding of different cultures.
Academic Rigor This university is highly prestigious and foster the greatest minds. There will always be students smarter than you and students dumber than you. Just always keep your head on your shoulders and your feet on the ground. Never give up, and get the help you need whenever you need it. There are plenty of free resources on campus to help you with your academic needs.
Tips for prospective students Make sure you don't mind walking, because this campus is really spread out, so expect to sometimes leave classes a couple of minutes early if you have back to back classes. Join clubs and organizations to stay social and active within the community. Step outside your comfort zone!
In three sentences UCSD is a great school for the student who is pretty mellow and doesn't mind a competitive atmosphere. The campus is huge, students are friendly, and academics are top notch. There are tons of areas for study, including the beach!
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07/09/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun La Jolla is somewhat of a sleepy little city despite the large UCSD campus. If you are over 21 and want to drink, you would have to jump on the 5 freeway and go to Pacific Beach to go to a decent bar. However, the beaches, which surround the campus are some of the best in all of San Diego, therefore I would recommend surfing, hang gliding, hiking and even hot air ballooning for fun. Any activity related to the water and the beach is easily doable.
Food and Dining The Food and Dining program at UCSD is rather expensive, but you do get what you pay for. In my opinion, the food and dining program at UCSD are always constantly looking for ways to continually improve the food and dining experience. It can get confusing ordering from the grill, especially at Cafe Ventanas for breakfast but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. I would say the cleanliness factor and the employees who work at the dining halls are excellent as well.
Dorm Life I was a transfer student from a community college who chose to dorm at the Villages of Torrey Pines in my first year. It is, however, incredibly expensive. One of the great benefits was that it specifically catered to transfer students and my experiences there were mostly positive. I thought that being a transfer student would make it difficult to meet people but because of the excellent dorm life, I was able to meet a diverse variety of people. Parking, however can be problematic.
Academic Rigor I was a Literature in English major at UCSD and I would have to say that the academic rigor at UCSD was adequate. UCSD is a school that is designed for students pursuing a degree in the hard sciences and I would assume that students who are within those majors have a different view on the academic rigor at UCSD. Overall, it was a smooth transition from community college life to a university life. Academic rigor is also dependent on the college that one is in at UCSD. I was in Sixth College and as a transfer had most of my general education requirements complete by the time I entered UCSD.
Tips for prospective students UCSD is a great school for the kinds of people who are independent. It does not have, in my opinion as well as many others a good sports program, therefore there is not much school spirit at all. I would also say that the Greek Life at UCSD has a bad reputation
In three sentences UCSD is an ideal school for the academically ambitious student whose main priority is their studies. Situated in picturesque La Jolla, San Diego, UCSD has a great support system that allows accessibility to counselors and professors making UCSD an environment that promotes academia over anything else. It really is a great place to spend four years of your life.
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Alicia from Anaheim, CA
07/15/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety There is a service where a campus police officers walk you back to your dorm from anywhere on campus. Shuttles also go around campus until 12 a.m.
Great for these types of students Even though some people might call it socially dead, it's not if you know the right people.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There are lots of art pieces scattered around the campus.
What to do for fun Go to the beach, there are many to choose from Go to the mall Take trips to the zoo or the ballpark to see the Padres
Food and Dining Revelle has the worst food but just a little walk next door in Muir college, there is Pines. There is also food places available at Price Center
Dorm Life Since there are six colleges, it depends on what to expect. ERC college has the newest dorms while Revelle is the oldest. But Revelle has the newest apartments for second years. Residential Advisors tend to plan many events over the year so you'll always have something to do.
Academic Rigor Lots of reading and attendance is mandatory for some classes.
Tips for prospective students Use assist.org to help choosing classes to take over summer at your local community college. Participate in your college's events and try to meet people there. Know your limit.
In three sentences UCSD is a great place for students looking to pursue an education in the sciences. There are many hospitals and laboratories that offer work and internships. The advantage of the six colleges, is that there are more activities you can participate in. Also, you get a small college experience if you don't want to branch out to the other colleges. Weather is amazing and so are the people.
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Michelle from MARINA, CA
07/16/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students University of California, San Diego is well-known for its medical programs which is why I think it is great for students who are interested in medical careers.
What to do for fun I am not sure what I will be doing for fun when I go to University of California, San Diego in Fall 2012, however, I am pretty sure I am will going to the beach and music dances to make for friends and have some time for myself to relax from my studies.
Food and Dining I was a bit disappointed with the food when I was at my orientation but I think it is a good thing because it will be a great opportunity to loose weight.
Dorm Life I was at my University of California, San Diego dorm for one day for my orientation and I was amazed. It wasn't like what I have read from other people's reviews. It was very clean and big.
Academic Rigor I am not sure of the academic rigor but I think it is going to be hard because I am going to be competing with other students with knowledge.
Tips for prospective students Study hard and try your very best
In three sentences I rate University of California-San Diego in the top 20 universities. University of California- San Diego is known for its good medical program school. It is also known as a good research school which is why I am going to love this school.
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Bryant from Monterey Park, CA
07/19/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus safety is always a concern, with eerie woods and desolate night grounds. However, campus police, resident officers, and student assistance constantly patrols campus and is ready at the call should you have their number. If you're smart and safe about walking around at night, then you'll be safe and sound.
Greek Life Sure, there isn't a Greek Row, or any frat houses near campus, but Greek Life is always alive and kicking. I don't know much about it, but from what I hear, there's isn't much lacking in the wild and fun department.
Clubs and Activities Definitely too many to list. From student government to cultural clubs, intramural sports teams, and academic/scholar programs, everyone fits in.
Great for these types of students UCSD's great for ALL types of students! Party animals flock to I-House, while diligent academics hit the Geisel and IRPS Libraries 5 minutes away. Beach addicts hit the waves and soak up the sun another 10 minutes away at Black's Beach, and food connoisseurs have their mouths full trying every five-star in San Diego.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus UCSD's individual colleges host their respective carnivals and concerts periodically, and there are quarterly dances and undie-runs. nothin out of the ordinary. However, UCSD does boast an incredible concert that all student across the nation flock to: Sungod. The end of the year concert that features artists like Drake, Wiz Khalifa, and Crystal Castles is definitely unrivaled by any University remotely in the area.
Bang for the buck Goody's burritos on campus are a reminiscent of Chipotle and definitely give you the best bang for your non-vegetarian/vegan buck. If you don't mind going a bit green, the Food Co-Op in the Old student Center has incredibly affordable prices for the batches they cook up. If you decide to go off-campus and don't mind a little spice, Punjabi Tandoor is a MUST. The best Indian food in the area, and probably So-Cal, hands down. Affordable, of course.
What to do for fun The best thing to do if you're an incoming freshmen or transfer is to explore! There are many hidden treasures and art collections throughout campus, and running around in the middle of the night is the pinnacle of freedom now that you're away from home. If that doesn't suite you, Black's Beach and affordable surf/kayak lessons are readily available. More of the city type? Downtown La Jolla and San Diego boast top eateries like Phil's BBQ and the Broken Yolk, as well as shopping centers.
Food and Dining Dining hall food can always do with some improvement, but you have a huge variety and tons of options. Eateries of all cultures and flavors are scattered across campus. If you eat wisely, you'll find no monotony in your diet.
Dorm Life Dorm life varies between the respective colleges of UCSD, but is overall amazing. Don't think of dorming as living at school, but rather working at home! no matter where you are on campus or what you're doing, your bed will be no more than a 15 minute walk.
Academic Rigor Academic rigor at UCSD always depends on the courses you're taking. On average, it will be challenging, but that's all up to you. Study diligently throughout the quarter, and you'll be fine. On the other hand, if you wait until the night before the final, you're in for long ride!
Tips for prospective students Pack just as many swimsuits and summer clothes as you do school supplies. However, it does get chilly once the sun sets, so bring warm clothes. Your social life is what you make of it, so go out, find your niche, and live your dream college life!
In three sentences UCSD is a relaxing yet upbeat college campus where you can be surfing at the beach and within ten minutes visit your professor's office hours-in your wet suit too! Competition is friendly, so whether you're driven of laid back, you can flourish. A home away from home, UCSD's one of the best universities the nation has to offer!
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Brie from San Diego, CA
07/20/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety I've never felt unsafe on campus. There always seems to be students walking around even at night. If you're ever worried, there are CSO's (campus security officers, I believe?) who will walk you to and from your destination free of charge. All you have to do is give them a call maybe fifteen minutes before and they'll meet you anywhere on campus.
Greek Life Greek housing is all off campus. If you want to go to a frat party you better have a car or know someone who does.
Great for these types of students Students who care about their academics and know how to find their own fun and social life.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Before coming to UCSD I would never have guessed that it would be home to so many bizarre art pieces. From a little blue house hanging off the top of an engineering building (recently added) to the blue volleyball net-looking piece that is commonly known as the giraffe catcher, there are so many art pieces that will make you stop and wonder if this really is a science school like everyone says. But, I will say, that it definitely keeps out vast landscape of a campus interesting.
What to do for fun The main events seem to happen during Spring Quarter such as Muirstock and Sungod Festival which are basically concerts on campus where students prove that UCSD is not socially dead. On regular days there are performances around campus at Porter's Pub and the Loft. I also like to go to plays at the La Jolla Playhouse which is literally across the street and offers discounted tickets to students. In Price Center, they also show movies every now and then, which are either free or $3.
Food and Dining Each of the six colleges has a reputation for their respective dining hall (Revelle is known as the worst and Marshall's and Muirs would have to be my favorites). They have a grill station, a salad bar, desserts and made-to-order foods where you can customize your dishes such as pasta, stir-fry, soup, quesadillas, etc. Other than the dining halls, my favorite place to eat is Goody's, which is like a Subway for burritos. Not only is it delicious but it also takes dining dollars so you can just swipe your meal card.
Dorm Life UCSD is divided into six different colleges and each has their own arrangement for the dorms. In one such case, the dorms are arranged into suites which house about 11 or so people who all share the same bathroom. The bathrooms are cleaned twice a week and the residential life staff is very efficient about room changes and such.
Academic Rigor In terms of academics, the classes I have takens so far have been very reasonable in terms of grading and difficulty. Science classes are notorious for being GPA-breakers, but the same is true for any other respected school. Obviously some majors will encounter more academic challenges than others with majors like bioengineering and biochemistry especially being known for their rigor.
Tips for prospective students Ignore the common belief that UCSD stands for UC Socially Dead. This belief only holds true if a person is inherently anti-social themselves and refuses to leave the confines of their dorm room. UCSD is a huge campus that offers numerous clubs to students to join and hosts a myriad of activities. It is only up to the students themselves to keep their eyes peeled for their next adventure whether it be attending an indie concert on campus or finding a festival that offers free food.
In three sentences UCSD is a laid-back yet academically focused school that is diverse in the options it offers students. It has maintained a reputation for being strong in the sciences and yet is home to a variety of quirky art pieces. A perk to being a Triton is definitely the proximity to the beach!
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Riverside Transfer
07/20/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus is very safe. Bikes are safe on campus and it is quiet at night.
Greek Life Greek life seems almost non-existent. Sororities and fraternities are few and far between, as are people who wish to be in them.
Clubs and Activities There is a vast array of different clubs and activities. Any activity wanted, such as sports, art, or music is offered on campus. It is almost impossible to not be involved while at school.
Great for these types of students Students who don't really care about sports or Greek life. Students who are looking for a laid-back and relaxing place to get a degree and good education.
Bang for the buck The school is pretty expensive, just like most colleges are. The dining and living is great though, so as far as that goes, money isn't being wasted. The academics are great, but classes are lacking in a lot of areas.
What to do for fun The San Diego area as a whole offers many different things to do for fun. There are concerts, museums, group activities, movies, and the beach to go to with friends, along with many other activities.
Food and Dining The food on campus is great. There are a wide variety of different restaurants and grocery stores and cafeterias to eat at on and off campus. Eating is never boring and there are a lot of different choices for everyone, including vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Dorm Life The dorms and campus are beautiful, so it is a great place to live for the school year. The students are friendly and respectful and the different schools provide bonding activities and campus events for everyone to attend. There isn't a lot of school spirit though and the student body as a whole is quiet, so the dorms can be kind of boring if students do not have their own group of friends.
Academic Rigor It is a very hard school and academics are valued. However, as long as one works hard though and studies, it is possible to achieve a degree. One shouldn't attend if they're not planning to work hard and learn. It isn't a party school and academics are incredibly important, so everyone has to be on top of their grades.
Tips for prospective students Keep your grades up and remember why you're there, but also take the time to let loose and have some fun as well throughout the years. Make it a habit to study right and keep your GPA up.
In three sentences The University of California-San Diego has a beautiful campus. The student body provides a lot of activities for students to bond and take part in. It is a great school to attend.
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Elise from San Diego, CA
07/22/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety During my two years here I've heard about people being kidnapped and murdered. Luckily I heard about this from immediate campus alerts. Just like anywhere else be conscientious and you will be fine.
Clubs and Activities There are plenty of clubs and activities, too many to choose from!
Great for these types of students People that want to get in and get out with a degree in science.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus If I told you, I'd have to kill you.
Bang for the buck With tuition increasing steadily this education is overpriced. If you network well while you are here that might make up for it. Don't expect to find people here that are interested in learning for learnings sake.
What to do for fun La Jolla Playhouse, Porters Pub, The Loft, join an org, there's always something to do..
Food and Dining Most of the food is terrible and overpriced. After a while you learn how to get the best bang for your buck. Go Bombay Coast!
Academic Rigor This school is on the quarter system. I heard I should hit the ground running. I prefer the term hit the ground waltzing because there is more to performing well at this school than understanding concepts quickly - you must also be tenacious, patient, adaptable, physically fit and sociable. Learn how to do the UCSD dance as quickly as you can.
Tips for prospective students Don't go unless you are there for the research. Know what research is before you go. Know who the regents are before you go.
In three sentences Great science programs. High levels of anxiety among the students. Professors are there to research, not to teach.
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Alyssa from Murrieta, CA
07/23/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety This campus is very safe. I am a girl and still feel comfortable walking around campus late at night. There are campus escorts available and there are always security guards patrolling.
Greek Life As stated previously, Greek Life has made my college experience. The people in Greek Life here are not at all the stereotypes, everyone in Greek Life that I have met so far are interesting, nice and still motivated to go to school.
Clubs and Activities There are so many clubs, intramural sports, jobs and activities to find around campus. They can be harder to find compared to other schools but they are all worth the search. For example, I have taken classes in sports clubs that are affordable and fun and even had the opportunity to go rock climbing for free.
Great for these types of students If you are someone who is very involved in school and ready to put in effort to get good grades and be in a competitive atmosphere then this is the school for you. It is also great for you if you are interested in the typical outlandish activities you hear of in movies like underwater basket weaving because those types of things are offered. You should also be someone interested in many different cultures because you will be immersed in many at once.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There is Graffiti Hall in Muir College which is open to everyone to spray paint the walls and there is always interesting art work in there. Other than that around campus there are various student art pieces, such as: giant chair, giraffe catchers, and various paintings. Many of these just appear and they are always interesting to look at.
Bang for the buck UCSD can be expensive because of housing, but when it is kept in mind that this college is in La Jolla, California, the cost is not so bad. Tuition is high, but you are allowed to take a lot of units per quarter. If you are interested in research then you will definitely get your money's worth.
What to do for fun Honestly, being in Greek Life has made my college experience. Greek Life provides many activities for me and I am never bored. The UCSD website also has weekly and monthly postings for things to do on and around campus. Sometimes you have to make your own fun but I have never been bored.
Food and Dining There are different dining halls for every college which always gives you the option of going to another college to eat if you do not like what yours is serving for the day. There are also markets and two restaurants, all of which accept dining dollars. The food also tastes good and there is always a variety.
Dorm Life The ways the dorms are set up are great. Everyone lives in suites with a communal living room and bathroom. Most buildings also have lounges available to residents. The suites are nice because you do not have to share a bathroom with more than 8 other people, and you have more space because you have a living room so you do not feel as if you are stuck in your room. The suites also make it easier to make friends and meet people.
Academic Rigor The classes are hard, especially upper division, but if you put effort into them it is completely possible to get good grades. My first year I only studied during midterms weeks and for finals and still got a 3.0, while I do not recommend this method, I still got decent grades and when I actually started studying I started getting A's.
Tips for prospective students This school is best for people that already know what their ultimate career goals are. There are a lot of general ed requirements and prerequisite classes required for every department and major making it hard to change your path if you wait too long.
In three sentences UCSD is in a wonderful location, has great research opportunities for undergrads, has plenty of helpful resources for academic and other purposes and has a good amount of activities on campus. A lot of the people are very focused on school and that is their top priority, which can make it hard to meet people in class since many are there to learn and never scoialize. The classes are very manageable and most of the professors, while some can be condescending, many are fantastic.
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Alexis from San Bernardino, CA
07/25/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus is very safe thanks to the on campus security.
Greek Life The Greek life is great. It ranges from social, to coed greek life that helps you with your major or with community service.
Clubs and Activities APSA, dance teams, recreation classes, MeCha, and so many other clubs and organizations for the diversity on campus.
Great for these types of students Students that find the academics more important, but also love to have some fun when needed. The fun can be found everywhere.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Revelle College watermelon drop, Muirstock, SunGod Festival
Bang for the buck The experience and the degree is worth the money.
What to do for fun The beach is about ten minutes away. The gyms are enormous. The recreation classes are a lot of fun. The campus has a lot of fun free events going on all over the campus. Joining organizations helps you make a lot of friends.
Food and Dining The food is spectacular. There are so many different dining options available on campus.
Dorm Life Living in the dorms is a lot of fun. It's an opportunity to make a lot of friends and study buddies.
Academic Rigor The courses are very challenging and they really help you improve as a student.
Tips for prospective students Go to office hours. They really do help.
In three sentences The university has fantastic programs for student growth, such as the summer bridge program. A lot of the professors are really great at teaching in their courses. The campus is gorgeous and it is right next to the beach!
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UCSD Freshman
07/26/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Greek Life Despite not having a Greek Row, UCSD has plenty of fraternities and sororities for one to join.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Sungod festival gets a lot of big-name artists and evidently, it's a lot of fun.
Bang for the buck UCSD definitely has connections to potential hiring companies, a great education, beautiful locale, and plenty to do and explore. Whether you are instate or out of state, UCSD is worth it.
What to do for fun There are several beaches to go to, as UCSD is in La Jolla, and the weather is usually very fair (sunny, 70 degrees, cool light breeze). There is also downtown with the famous gaslamp quarter and some nightlife for those of you who are 18+.
Food and Dining Food was pretty standard, nothing that stands out. There are kitchens in each building (again, speaking for the ERC buildings), so that would be useful if you cook.
Dorm Life I speak for Eleanor Roosevelt College, as I have not seen the other dorms, just for your information. Each floor is almost set up like an apartment, with rooms connecting to a common area (couch, tables, etc) and the rooms themselves are quite nice (some have views of the ocean). Furthermore, there are different buildings within ERC, and not one gigantic building, which makes moving in easier.
Academic Rigor UCSD is, as aforementioned, known for research. This focus on research motivates UCSD to push out alums that will be ready for the world (and ultimately make the school more well known).
Tips for prospective students Think about where UCSD aligns with your needs- there are several big biotech companies in San Diego, for example. The social stereotypes are quite ridiculous in itself; you can't possibly expect all 30,000 students to be completely socially inept.
In three sentences UCSD is an esteemed university for the sciences and is very research- oriented. Granted it does not have the best social reputation, but it seems many are attempting to turn that around. I have been a resident of San Diego for a while, and UCSD is definitely in the nicest part of the city.
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Linda from San Francisco, CA
07/27/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus has been pretty safe, as to emergency buttons are stationed everywhere on campus and having officers walk students from one location to another during nighttime.
Greek Life Many of the Greek organizations has been intergraded with many activities that not only involves their organization, but also other students outside their organization as well.
Clubs and Activities There are numerous clubs on campus that host many events throughout the year.
Great for these types of students Students that focus on academics and participate in many levels of activities on and off campus.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God, it is a festival where students attend for free and guest must buy tickets to attend. Every year, different artist come and sing on our stage, and dance stage for performers.
What to do for fun There are many places to go sightseeing on campus as well as off campus. Since the campus is huge, there are many areas to explore on campus.
Food and Dining There are multiple dinning halls on campus. Dinning plan operates on a dinning dollar system, paying the amount per a item instead of a buffet style. Under this plan, students has the control over how much money is spent per a meal. Also, dinning dollars are accepted at all dinning halls and market places on campus. Market place are convenient stores on campus that students can use their dinning dollars to buy both food and non-food items.
Dorm Life Dorm life is great on campus, considering all freshmen are living in dorms while sophomore and above lives in the apartments. With a general housing section that is inclusively for freshmen allows freshmen to be together for the first year.
Academic Rigor Academic is quite rigorous as this college has many competitive programs. It is required that all students take classes from different aspects to be more world rounded. Since there is the six college system, students may choose to apply to the college that better fit themselves in which different colleges has different general education requirements.
Tips for prospective students This college provides many opportunities and features many different programs on campus. It has a private school atmosphere with the campus being split into six different colleges, able to get to know your people better and a more welcoming feeling.
In three sentences UCSD is a great college to attend, with four years of guarantee housing along with neighboring areas for food and entertainment. Social Science majors are able to graduate in three years. As for getting classes, it is relatively easy to enroll in classes even though if it requires being waitlisted in the first place.
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Bryan Paulo from Torrance, CA
07/28/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety always safe even walking home alone at 3/4/5am, can always call for escort if needed
Greek Life not bad, only way to really go to parties, some haze harder than others, be prepared
Clubs and Activities many to choose from, many advertise at the beginning of the year so check it out then to see what fits you
Great for these types of students academically motivated, self-independent, hard-working
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus graffiti hall: famous by WongFu productions gliders port: filled with people going on hangliders and overlooks the beach from a high point.
Bang for the buck good education and top notch research, just have to go for the opportunities
What to do for fun Go hiking, beach, shopping, involved in clubs/org, recreation classes, im sports, club sports, go to downtown/landmarks
Food and Dining Food is not that good. It is a la carte style so no all-you-can-eat. Some places are more decent such as Pines and OVT, but dorm food is never really good anyways. The place to go for breakfast is OVT and for late night munchies up to 1am is Goody's for burritos. The markets are also open until 1am for any late night snacks.
Dorm Life Lots of fun. Make sure to get to know you suite. Get involved in the events you'll meet other students from your college and building/floor. Everyone is very friendly and if you do have troubles with people in your suite, make sure to communicate and at the last resort talk with your ra.
Academic Rigor This is a difficult school so expect rigorous work along with competitive classmates. If you want help, don't expect the professor to come over and talk with you about your grade. You have to do it yourself. Go to office hours or go to tutoring facilities/program. There are many on campus.
Tips for prospective students Be open to meeting new people and come to college with an open mind. Don't just stay in your room. Always Explore. Go on spontaneous adventure because when you look back at them they will be the most memorable.
In three sentences It is an amazing school filled with people from many different perspective. There is not much school spirit here so you do have to find your own niche to get settled and comfortable. The weather is always good and your near a beach filled with many hiking spots.
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Jane from La Jolla, CA
07/29/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus security is on 24/7 I feel safe even when I'm walking to my dorm at 11 o'clock at night.
Clubs and Activities There are so many clubs on campus it's hard to even keep count, and if you have any ideas it's extremely easy to create a club! Clubs for pre-med students and business major students and pre-law students are especially abundant.
Great for these types of students Great for students who are dedicated to a good education and for students who want to experience the college life in a great college town.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Cliffs is about 5 minutes away (walking) with an amazing view of the ocean, very beautiful.
Bang for the buck Expensive but, financial aid should cover your costs, and if not they offer numerous jobs on campus.
What to do for fun You are completely surrounded by beaches so that's definitely a plus, especially with the amazing views on campus. There is plenty do to in the city of San Diego with plenty of public transportation. La Jolla is also extremely close to places like Tijuana and Los Angeles.
Food and Dining The food on campus is good but after a while you can get tired of eating the same thing every week, but you are definitely surrounded by plenty of malls and restaurants.
Dorm Life The dorms on campus are nice, there are so many different types depending on which side of campus you live on, some dorms are bigger and better than others.
Academic Rigor You get the grade you deserve. The amount of work and effort you put in to a class shows, especially when you are taking midterms and finals.
Tips for prospective students Use your time wisely. You will find that you have a lot more time on your hands than you did in High School, but you will also find it difficult to spend that time studying. Don't procrastinate, it is the biggest mistake you can make. Do not stress out too much, relax.
In three sentences The campus is a calm place surrounded by a busy city. The courses offered are not easy but they are fair, you get the grade you deserve. It's exactly the college experience every student is looking for.
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Vera from San Diego, CA
07/31/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety We have designated RSOs who will walk you back to your dorm when it is late at night and students are coming back from the library or a friends place at a different college.
Greek Life La jolla has a very strict policy pertaining to greek housing; thus, all the potential parties are held at privately owned houses where greek students live together. Even though UCSD does not fully mirror the life of a sorority/ fraternity, students make of what they have and still enjoy greek life to its fullest. Nothing makes UCSD less of a greek school than other colleges except for the fact that we don't have Greek Row.
Clubs and Activities There are multiple clubs students can join, from cultural to religious, and volunteering groups. Because of how the campus is divided into 6 colleges, the best way to meet new people out of your own college is by joining clubs and activities you are interested in.
Great for these types of students Great for majors that are getting a Bachelor of Science. The knowledge this campus has to offer is insanely vast, but when it comes to communications or business, it is better to go somewhere else where hands on experience is valued greatly.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus UCSD is famous for Sungod, an annual festival where students from around California comes to see famous artists come to perform live. This event includes 2 dance tents as well as an entertainment tent filled with comedy speeches, and acrobatics.
Bang for the buck Because UCSD is a public school, most of its money goes towards research; thus the professors are not as helpful as the other ones at private schools. Most professors are researches so their teaching method does not pertain to the classical way of high school teachers. Although this is a great school for any subject that is research based, it is not my recommendation to go here for a bachelor of arts because of its ways of teaching.
What to do for fun The city of La Jolla is filled with places to explore. Downtown La Jolla consists of the classy cafe, brunches, culture and art. Downtown San Diego has more of the city life. Pacific beach is the place to be for students who are 21+, but also a great place to go to shop at boutiques. Even if you are not of age, or don't want to spend any money, the 4 beaches circling the campus from all 4 directions are always a great place to hang out.
Food and Dining We have 6 dinning halls where students can use their dinning dollars. The campus consists of one of more dinning halls and market places in each college. There is a variety of tasty foods such as sushi, salads, paninis, frozen yogurt, blueberry pancakes, and amazing breakfast burritos. The list goes on, and if you are tired of one cafeteria and their specialties, there are 6 more to choose from.
Dorm Life At UCSD, we are split into 6t different colleges, all of which are built separately throughout time; thus, having the option of nicer housing. The only downfall of this system is the fact that you are only familiar with the students in your own college, for everybody lives in a different part of campus. Here is a break down of the 6 colleges: Revelle: Oldest college on campus, built like a outdoor hotel building 2nd year housing: the newly renovated housing on campus. Has pointless technology like the towel dryer. Muir: Best view of the ocean, for it has the most amount of floors built directly on the side of the ocean. Warren: wild bunnies are constantly running around, while the students are somewhat isolated in its own college Marshall: the most efficient college, for it is located in the middle of all tasty dinning halls, as well as campus central. ERC: this college itself is far from the entire campus. They have the nicest dorms and are forced to be a tight nit community because of its distance from the other colleges and campus central. Sixth College: The newest college that is in the middle of nowhere. Long walks to class, but has the easiest GE's to complete.
Academic Rigor Don't be fooled by the easy titles of classes such as Contemporary Dance, Music, or History of Film. Because this college is ranked in the top 30's in the world, its academic rigor does not lighten just because the class is not is a science based field. Be prepared to write in every class, even theater and art. Average Midterms/Finals in GE classes average around a C-, but the trick is to just beat to curve. All in all, just because classes seem easy, TA's like to grade according to the UCSD standard, which is pretty high in any subject assuming we have to live up to our academic reputation.
Tips for prospective students Be open to new ideas and opinions. Because there is so much to explore, students will develop their own lessons, and be stronger as a person. When we change the way we look at things, the things you look at change. There is culture everywhere, especially on the very ground of the campus itself. The Stewart art collection is UCSD's own museum, if you will, with its own culture and analysis. Be open to this creative university, for you discover and unfold its secrets as you continue studying here. Even though the things around you will not change drastically within the 4 years you are here, your knowledge of the same things will be vastly different, for at UCSD, our culture shapes you into seeing one situation, 5 different ways.
In three sentences The city of La Jolla will never fail to intrigue you with hikes, beaches, shopping, culture, and night life. It is the perfect balance of nature and city-life, for you will never find yourself bored in this town! Stay here for 4 years and you will truly call this place home with the memories you have made in college.
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Gloria from San Jose, CA
08/02/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students Laidback but serious
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Unolympics and Sungod.
Bang for the buck Since I'm a California resident, I'm definitely getting my money's worth.
What to do for fun Go to the beach, party in I-House, take a walk, go shopping at UTC, have lunch, Sungod!
Food and Dining Pretty good, but I'm not a picky eater. There's a dining hall in each residential college.
Dorm Life The dorms were okay when I visited, and they're remodeling this summer in the college I'm in so they'll be even better come fall! Can't wait!
Academic Rigor From what I've heard, this is a school where studying is taken VERY seriously.
Tips for prospective students Work really hard on your essays, and make yourself shine! My numbers weren't that great, but I still got in.
In three sentences UCSD has got great academics, is located in a beautiful, up-scale area, but if you ever need a little you-time, it's got enough space to do just that. There's fun to be had, knowledge to be attained, and it's just plain amazing.
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08/06/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students who want to succeed and be surrounded by peers who wish to challenge themselves. The weather and atmosphere is great for studying, but may not be the BEST when it comes to socializing/partying.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Sun God festival is definitely as amazingly fun as everyone raves it to be. Don't miss out on it!!
Food and Dining Having six different dining halls, The Bistro (a restaurant type of place where you can use meal points/swipes), and seven different markets is definitely a huge advantage of UCSD. The dorm food may not be the best, but some are better than others and you can swipe all kinds of things at the market.
Dorm Life Dorm life was super fun, but don't expect to find a whole group of people that you'll automatically like and become close friends with. Don't be afraid to branch out and meet people from all the different campuses. Living in the dorms gives you a taste of freedom and is very convenient in many ways.
Academic Rigor I personally found many of the courses challenging--even the easy A classes that I had been hearing about. However that doesn't mean it's impossible to achieve a good grade. If you put in enough hours and dedication to studying, you'll surely be able to succeed.
Tips for prospective students Definitely try to get involved as much as you can--in WHATEVER you find even remotely interesting. Even attending just one meeting could open a whole new door that you were never even aware existed.
In three sentences Although it may on the more relaxed side of the social spectrum, UC San Diego is definitely an institute worth attending. With its commendable pool of professors and high priority in research and academics, students will definitely have the opportunity to be challenged by their studies as well as enjoy what they are learning.
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Samantha from La Verne, CA
08/10/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Greek Life The Greek community is small compared to some campuses, but pretty close-knit and always fun.
What to do for fun Go to the beach, join an org, go Greek, find a way to get involved!
Food and Dining The dining halls are awful, no two ways about it, but places like the Bistro, Goody's, and Roots are all amazing.
Dorm Life Dorm life is dramatically different depending where you are on campus. Sixth College dorms and I-House are very social, while the Revelle Fleet and singles in Warren are more isolated. You have to know where to go and what to do.
Academic Rigor There is no question about it, you will have to study very hard, but it is also very possible to have an active, fulfilling social life.
Tips for prospective students 1) Join the Greek system; it will help you make friends and create a social life very quickly, and you will be glad to have a close community to call home. 2) Unless you're a pre-med student or you can't decide if you like the humanities or sciences more, don't make Revelle your first choice. 3) Live in I-House for at least a year.
In three sentences Most people are unsure about UCSD for their first quarter, but if you give it a chance and get yourself involved, you will realize that it is a great place to be. You will know you are getting a high-quality education, and UCSD is a top-tier UC just like UCLA or Berkeley. You can go from your lab classes to a restaurant better than Chipotle to the beach in less than a 30-minute walk.
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Jane from Los Angeles, CA
08/13/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Dorm Life Relaxed.
Academic Rigor Have to study, but still can take time to do other things.
Tips for prospective students Work hard.
In three sentences Great school, especially in the sciences. Near the beach. Very nice weather.
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Kevin from La Jolla, CA
08/31/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun When I have time I go to the movies with my friends or play video games. I am in cross country so I do that too.
Food and Dining If you are living in the dorms you get Triton Cash to buy food at the cafeteria but if you live off campus you pay for your food. Some of the food is good but most of it I don't like but it's cheaper than fast-food.
Dorm Life I live in an apartment right across from UCSD so I can't really say anything about dorm life. I go to my friend's dorm to visit and it's pretty cool if you get awesome roommates. The downfall is that there is no privacy in the bathroom whether it's showering or relieving yourself.
Academic Rigor In my opinion all schools offer the same level of difficulty. I've taken community college courses and UCLA summer session apart from UCSD and they are similar.
Tips for prospective students When you enroll in your classes you should check the UCSD map to see if you can make it walking/bike to your next class. I only had 10 minutes t walk to my next class; it seems like enough time but it isn't. And also, if you've taken AP classes you should be fine your first two years.
In three sentences The campus is apt to one's taste. Filled with enigmas that you'll never solve. Adjacent to beach to have fun and live life.
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Kadie from Wildomar, CA
09/07/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety UCSD takes all necessary precautions to ensure student safety, ranging from on campus police to blue security poles located all across campus in which students can use to contact Emergency Services when there is no one physically available. UCSD is top notch in campus security.
Clubs and Activities the University has more than enough clubs and activities to fulfil anybody's desire to become involved. They literally have almost anything you can imagine, from civic service to club sports from math clubs to Quidditch teams. You name, it they have it.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Sun God festival is a music festival that occurs every year that includes a wide variety of artists with 3 different venues. Although the music is cool, the best part of sun god is watching every student let loose and go buck wild. There is also the undie Run at the end of every quarter. it is pretty self explanatory, you run in your underwear through the library and across campus to let off some steam.
Bang for the buck Although tuition is costly, financial aid does whatever they can to help you pay for your financial needs and the education is international renown. I couldn't have asked for a better education.
What to do for fun This may sound crazy but for fun I go to work. I was given the wonderful opportunities to be a Marshall orientation leader. with this job I get to meet new people, performance civic activities to better the community, and make new students feel at home at UCSD. I also get the perk of getting paid to do all this.
Food and Dining UCSD has 6 different dining hall thrall included in the dining plan. If you tire of 1 dining hall you, can easily travel to another due to their close proximity. Each dining hall has their own specialties, but also have a wide variety of different foods that appeal to all the students.
Dorm Life living with my mother people is not as hard as it sounds, in fact I quite enjoyed my experience of living with 9 other women. Also, the cleaning staff keep the dorms generally clean and the atmosphere of the buildings in their entirety is quite welcoming.
Academic Rigor The the University is strict in terms of academic integrity. any sources found cheating will face the consequences of academic probation and/or expulsion.
Tips for prospective students Do not feel overwhelmed by the size of the college, you will find your niche in time. Become close to your advising staff and they will give you more tools than you need to succeed.
In three sentences UC San Diego has become my second home. The six college system is genius in terms of making students feel at home and Marshall college has been more than helpful in terms of stirrings towards the career path I desire. Overall, UCSD is more than I could ask for in a college.
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Tuyet-Trinh from Santa Ana, CA
09/08/2012Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments In three sentences UC San Diego is a beautiful campus, located on the hillsides in San Diego. You will not want to miss out on the scenery or the campus itself. It offers a variety of majors and abroad programs, as well as extracurricular activities, such as clubs and organizations.
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Jessica from Sylmar, CA
09/09/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Each college has their own, but the wackiest one is called the Watermelon Drop. It's fun, and it signifies the end of the school year. There's a fair, a watermelon queen, and of course, the watermelon drop competition.
What to do for fun There are many sports competitive and just for fun. There are clubs for everyone's taste, and if there's not a single one you like, find a friend and start a new one! We're also a short walk from the beach where surfing can be done and sandcastles galore are waiting to be made.
Food and Dining There are many dining halls across campus. You use dining dollars to pay for your meals. The cool thing is that although you belong to one college, you are not restricted to that college's dining hall.
Dorm Life You have the option of a single, double, or triple beded dorm room. Any of these choices is swell and up to you based on finances and preferences. One thing in common with them all is that they all provide great opportunities to meet new people and make lasting friendships.
Academic Rigor There are six miny colleges within UCSD and the rigor varies within each one. But that's not to say that one is better than another, rather that each has different focuses, creating more rigor on certain subjects.
Tips for prospective students Don't be afraid to take a tour; tours will definitely help you in making your choice of which college to attend. Also, if you have any questions that you cannot find the answer to on the UCSD website, call. Everyone is friendly and are eager to help you with anything you may need.
In three sentences This is a wonderful school full of many opportunities. It's a three to five minute walk from the beach. There's many many art pieces spread throughout the campus for one's enjoyment.
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Darlene from Arcadia, CA
09/09/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Tips for prospective students Be sure to research which college you want to go to. There are 6 different subcolleges at UCSD and each school is known for a particular field.
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Andre from Palatine, IL
09/11/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety La Jolla is an affluent part of San Diego and the campus is full of mostly affluent students. I hear of no crime or violence.
Greek Life I have no clue but don't think there are too many.
Clubs and Activities I am officers of two clubs and consider my clubs a collection of some of the most interesting people in the school. My clubs are in business and entrepreneurship.
Great for these types of students For those extremely motivated and excited about their education. If you are not truly interested in doing good work in your major you will whine about the lack of social atmosphere or school spirit.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The school is split into 6 colleges much a few ivys so each college has its own secrets and traditions to explore.
Bang for the buck Honestly as an out of stater I am incredibly impressed with the quality and fullness of an education I am getting. I honestly believe I am given the resources and education of a private university.
What to do for fun I personally enjoy volleyball on the beach. San Diego is incredibly beautiful and its beaches nationally renown.
Food and Dining 5 stars on taste and 1 star on quantity. You are given a fixed amount of money to use at your own risk. It comes out to 1 and a half meals a day...
Dorm Life As a transfer from UIUC I must say dorm life at UCSD is lacking to say the least.
Academic Rigor As a bioengineer I can honestly say these classes are incredibly tough
Tips for prospective students Get into research and join some clubs. I know that one can get underwhelmed by the lack of college party life but the feeling of success one can get is enormous.
In three sentences An extremely research driven university. If you have any desire to make an academic impact this place is for you. Large amounts of resources for driven students.
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Lena from Chula Vista, CA
09/17/2012Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety This campus is very safe and hardly encountered any problems within these years. There are security and they have a secure school system just in case anything goes wrong. Ive been told to follow the emergency hotline just in case anything happens. They seem concerned about every students safety on this campus.
Greek Life The campus has a variety of people from different states as well as countries. They serve plenty of Greek foods at the cafeteria, yet I'm not sure if there are many Greek students. They may have a club concerning Greek students who are currently attending UCSD.
Clubs and Activities There are many clubs and activities to join, as i mentioned earlier. I will start attending this school in the fall, so I'm not too familiar on what exactly they have offered. But I'm sure there are plenty to choose from.
Great for these types of students This school is great for hard working and determined students. As long as you put in the effort, you will always succeed. Especially with the quarter system, students need to be focused and on top of everything!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus This university has activities and clubs in which people join as well as to meet new people. These locations vary as there are different kinds of traditions to share. They also have a wide variety of cultural people attending.
Bang for the buck This is an expensive school but totally worth it! Financial aid is really helpful as well, just in case you have trouble with costs. Other than that, UCSD is worth the money due to the great academic connections and such a great school it is!
What to do for fun There are activity and events going on almost every week at the University of California, San Diego. Students participate in these fun events and take advantage of what their school has to give to them. This is also a great way to meet new people.
Food and Dining Within each college, there are cafeterias everywhere! In addition, high quality food is offered at a reasonable price. Not only that but there are a wide variety of foods to choose from as well.
Dorm Life The dorm life seems pretty interesting as everyone has roomates that could share fun experiences as well as bad ones. The advantage of living on campus is plenty of access to the school and less transportation. It is always reliable to live on campus and focus on school.
Academic Rigor Unlike community colleges, this university has quarter systems rather than semesters. In this case, there is plenty of studying and hard work to be done as a current student attending this school. Students need determination to succeed and to never give up.
Tips for prospective students To those who have not yet applied or is planning to apply, should obtain a high gpa as well as put in great effort for deadlines while applying. Determined and hard-working students can succeed and get an acceptance letter into such an amazing school!
In three sentences University of California San Diego is a prestigious school with a beautiful campus. Students who attend this school should be proud of their acceptance. They have wonderful staff, such a beautiful campus, as well as great academic connections.
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Alexis from Chino Hills, CA
09/19/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Food and Dining I tried the cafeteria at ERC and it was delicious!
Dorm Life As previously stated, I have not moved in yet but everyone on my floor seems to be very social and ready for a new life.
Academic Rigor I have not experienced any classes yet, but from what I have heard from previous students each class is a challenge but if you focus enough you will survive.
Tips for prospective students Remember to keep yourself well rounded in high school. School is very important but one cannot forget to stay involved with extra curricular activities to show that they can handle a balanced life-because, let's be honest, in the future it doesn't matter if you can ace test after test if you're not able to balance a social life with work.
In three sentences From what I've experienced at UCSD, I am-without a doubt-in love with everything it has to offer. From the educational and research opportunities to the atmosphere created by student life, UCSD is my true home away from home. I am excited for these future four years in La Jolla.
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Mariam from Escondido, CA
09/22/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Bang for the buck Housing is pretty expensive, but it is La Jolla. Tuition keeps increasing. I definitely don't like that.
What to do for fun There are a lot of events going on on campus. We get a weekly schedule in our e-mail of these events. Attend whichever event you like.
Food and Dining The food is horrible on campus, and it is very expensive. For the entire past year, I have been in and out at the doctor's office due to stomach problems. I have never had stomach problems before UCSD because I have been used to cooking for myself. I suggest you learn to cook for yourself.
Dorm Life I live in an apartment on campus. It's quite laid back, and so far my roommates have been just fine. However, I have been fortunate to end up with roommates who are orientated towards graduating.
Academic Rigor It's quite competitive at UCSD especially the biology majors (other students will mislead you on purpose!). There aren't many assignments for each class. All you have to do is study and read your textbook. Sound simple, but it isn't. Don't ever get behind because if you do, you will have hell trying to catch up.
Tips for prospective students Don't be impressed by the big name. If you want to go into science, math, engineering, or computer science, then UCSD is for you. Otherwise, it might be a waste of time.
In three sentences UCSD is quite competitive, much more than high school. However, one has many opportunities here such as research, volunteering, shadowing, and etc.
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Shaina from San Francisco, CA
09/28/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun There are loads of events. I often feel like I don't have time to go to all of them.
Tips for prospective students Apply here if you like a small-campus setting with a large public school price and resources. However, from my experience with the UCs, UCSD is the most unorganized information wise. I know at other UCs such as UCLA and Berkeley, they have all their info in one nice brochure/webpage. UCSD, on the other hand, you have to hunt down the info yourself and, when they do send you info, it's hidden in a bunch of irrelevant info.
In three sentences It is a pretty academic oriented UC. Generally, students are very academic focused with the Warren engineers always studying in their dorms and an amazing library.
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Steven from San Diego, CA
09/29/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun Campus life and parties are buzzing in the transfer and international housing area for the first quarter of the year where things start to die down a bit after due to problems with grades or housing reports. The general area is great for outdoors related activities from surfing, mountain climbing, to hiking. Going to bars is another option, but the commute from the campus to the nearby Pacific Beach/ Gaslamp area can be a pain sometimes.
Food and Dining The food can be anything from belongs in the trash to gourmet with there being no consistency on the quality. It's quite possible for one dish to be absolutely amazing one day, and for that same dish to give you food poisoning the next week. There are a couple dining halls that are known as being 'better' or 'worse' than others, but even then consistency is always a problem.
Dorm Life As mentioned, the social scene at UCSD is very much behind the scenes and can be quite cliquish. Because of this, dorm life can range from seemingly dull, boring, and quiet to being a one way track towards alcoholism depending on where one lives. More likely than not however, awkward/shy students may find themselves struggling to find fun things to do on the weekends and will start spending less time on campus and more commuting back home.
Academic Rigor The school is a magnet for students pursing medicine and it is not uncommon to meet 8/10 freshmen who are in some pre-med route of some sort. Because of this, classes can be quite competitive and cut throat at times. In addition there can be a lot of bitterness in students stemming from grades and stress.
Tips for prospective students Unlike some other college campuses, the social scene will not fall into your lap. And even when putting yourself out there, you may rejection to not be too unfamiliar when attempting to engage with new people. Things are slowly changing however, and I can see the social scene becoming more and more open thanks to the new students coming in.
In three sentences UCSD is a wonderful campus with a lot of potential to be one of the best campuses both socially and academically. It is currently one of the best in the world academically excelling in cutting edge research from from chemistry to mathematics. The public social scene is lacking however where socializing is very much done behind the scenes in cliques.
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Lorraine from La Jolla, CA
10/08/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety We have emergency buttons around campus whenever you feel like you are in danger. We have security roaming around the campus sometimes and lots of number in which you can call if you need help or someone to escort you back to your dorm.
Bang for the buck Dining dollars are great, use them as often as you can. Although 2,900 may not seem like much. It is real money and most of the markets and dining halls accept dining dollars. Only the chain restaurants like panda don't take it, but that's understandable. By the end of the quarter, you will be looking for ways to get rid of dining dollars since they don't transfer over to the next quarter (excuse to stock up in your dorm)!
What to do for fun The gym is my favorite place. The rimac arena is new and really neat. I would say it's better than L.A fitness. Also you can go explore campus. it's really big. There are things like the graffiti room that allows students to express freely without worrying if it's vandalism (allowed by the school), a giant chair near the art building, the garden of eve, the many dining halls and restaurants (since there are six colleges spread out), and going to the new Westfield mall which barely opened this year. Going downtown to San Diego is also really fun. As UCSD students, we can use the bus for free as indicated on our i.d. cards. There is also really great events on campus such as concerts and movie showings. Honestly, you just find things to do despite the reputation for it being socially dead. So we don't party hard, but we'll find a way.
Food and Dining Not the best dining hall food like UCLA, but it's doable. Also, It's a lot better than high school and elementary cafeteria food. It's ridiculously overpriced, but it's college. You can still get a taste of home because they try to offer fusion cuisines on some nights. There are lots of dining options, and the college is getting better at catering to vegans and vegetarians. I am very fond of vegetarian tofurky and I am a meat lover! Also with the great amount of dining halls and no meal plan option, you have the freedom to choose how many meals to eat or just use dining dollars to buy a snack if you preferred. It's great not to be restricted to buffet style eating and swipes because it causes great distress to those who eat less but often like I do.
Dorm Life Dorm life is chill here, although it can get cliquey. The dorms are generally alright. However I can't speak for everyone because I have the best residential halls for my college. I share a suite with only 13 other girls. We have a huge common room and a really nice restroom with towel warmers.
Academic Rigor Although UCSD is not as well-known as the other top-tier schools, it is slowly rising in ranks and may surpass UCLA soon. The variety or majors and it's many programs here cater to everyone, despite the primary focus on science. The classes are tough, but the professors are not out to get you. I'm not saying the classes are easy, but it's what you make of it.
Tips for prospective students Find you own niche and pick a college that is most appropriate for you. University of California, San Diego is unique in that it has six colleges and it has a huge campus, but this difference allows you to grow and meet other types of people. Overall, going to this school will force you to become more independent. There is so much free time and places to explore since the campus is huge, so you have to manage your time well.
In three sentences This university is amazing and filled with numerous opportunities. You don't feel the pressure that everyone is out to get you and allows you to explore your interests. The six different colleges gives you a more realistic view of society, where everyone is radically different but they do share the same goal in succeeding.
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Jasmine from Antioch, CA
10/13/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Go to Goody's! It's like Chipotle and it's located in Marshal College. It's the only place besides the markets that's open at 1am and the burritos are amazing.
What to do for fun There's everything from the beach, to wandering the beautiful city of La Jolla. There's sports, shopping, movie theaters, clubs, organizations, etc.
Food and Dining There are so many options for food here; vegan, burritos, salad, pizza, soups, stir-fry, sushi, pasta, etc. Everything is reasonably priced and most places accept dining dollars (which is a part of the housing and dining package)
Dorm Life The campus has six colleges in it; each one has a different dorming style and activities specialized with that college as well as All School activities. As for my college, Muir, dorming is amazing, living on the top floors of the resident halls provide you with a beach view and the sunset is spectacular to watch. You get used to living with room/suitemates; they become a closer support system than the rest of the campus.
Academic Rigor With a full class schedule you'll still have surplus time to get involved in activities and organizations on and off campus. Time management is key. Quarters are done before you know it; ten weeks and then it's over.
Tips for prospective students Prospective students should definitely visit the campus and go on one of the school tours. Once you start to explore the school you'll all in love with it.
In three sentences UCSD is an amazing school both academically and socially. The curriculum is adapted so that every student, no matter your learning type, is provided with the tools they need to succeed. The campus is beautiful and the staff and students are supportive and involved with one another.
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Robert from Hawthorne, CA
10/18/2012Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.
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Categories Comments Food and Dining What is a location on campus that has good food available for not too much cost?
Dorm Life Are transfer students required to live on campus or can we stay out in the community. What is a good neighborhood to live in near the school?
Academic Rigor How does UCSD compare to other UC's as far as engineering program offerings?
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Raul from Tracy, CA
10/21/2012Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.
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Categories Comments Clubs and Activities I am very interested in wrestling and seems like the have a club devoted to wrestling Freestyle and Greco Roman. Does anyone have any input about the wrestling club?
Dorm Life I'm about an hour away from the college and was wondering if it would be better to stay on campus or continue living with the parent? Any thoughts?
Academic Rigor Are there any students right now working towards a physics major that could tell me what they think about their program? Have you gotten an apprenticeship at any of the research labs?
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Lexie from Pleasanton, CA
10/26/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Always a Campus Safety Officer willing to assist with anything from the boogey man to walking home at night.
Clubs and Activities Diverse student body leads to a menagerie of clubs and activities all of which are enjoyable
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Secret tunnels, but of course, student's aren't allowed to explore.
Bang for the buck Simply the best UC: fantastic educational record, great environment, activities a plenty.
What to do for fun Beach, parties, concerts, festivals, sports, and college activities.
Food and Dining With a variety of options and location the dining halls accommodate all needs.
Dorm Life Depends which college you attend: Marshall - ok, Sixth - ok, Revelle - bad, ERC - great, Muir - best.
Academic Rigor A fair pace where it's challenging but manageable.
Tips for prospective students Come open minded and excited. Also bring plenty of food.
In three sentences UCSD is a huge campus with thousands of students. Never a dull moment whether it's weekday grabbing a bite between class or hitting the beach on the weekend. The fun never stops in this wonder of an university.
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Kayla from CA
11/01/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety I feel like the walkways could be lighted way better! It gets really misty and dark and shady at night and its just a little creepy! But besides that, I'd say it's a pretty safe campus.
Great for these types of students If you want to get involved in campus, this is a great school for you! There are so many opportunities! If you lock yourself in your room, you won't have any fun, guaranteed!
What to do for fun The beach is so close! Bus takes you to practically anywhere you want to go!
Food and Dining It's not that bad....but you'll miss real food very soon.
Dorm Life Its great getting to know everyone who you'll live with the next year! Seriously, these girls are some of the best people I've met in a while! But sometimes privacy is a hard thing to find and that kind of sucks.
Academic Rigor Classes can be really hard if you don't stay on top of it. It sucks having to play catch up.
Tips for prospective students Bring nice walking shoes. Join clubs. Don't procrastinate on homework.
In three sentences It's huge. There's a beach nearby. Nice weather.
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Cecilia from La Jolla, CA
11/01/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Their are always campus officers around keeping an eye and ear out and taking walks or just stopping by to have a talk. They are all very friendly if you stay on their good side. And if u have a night class and dont want to walk back by yourself then you call the campus security department and a community service officer can walk you back to your dorm.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Here we have a statue called the Sun God and if you walk under it backwards and with your eyes closed before a test it is said to give you good luck. We also have hand made tree looking poles between real trees that make either scary noises, stay quiet, or sing. Depending which tree your around.
What to do for fun There's always something to do. There are basketball courts in just about every college here, roads to take a run, pools open on certain hours of the day for free swim, and tons of campus activities. And the beach.
Food and Dining The food here is all very diverse and they usually have different meals everyday and depending on the time of day; breakfast, lunch and dinner. Though the Plaza in Revelle is very infamous for their food.
Dorm Life In the dorms the cleaning lady comea 3 times a week and she does a very good job. They are also very friendly. The house assistants are also very supportive and informative because we have weekly house meetings. A house is only two floors of a building. Thats only for Muir in UC San Diego.
Academic Rigor People here push themselves to do their best academically. Your never alone if you want to study too because they have tons of tutoring for practically all of the classes and the library is always open for studying n their computers are open to students.
Tips for prospective students Here it can get very cold so sweaters are a must but it's also good to wear a dress every now and then for when a special sunny day. Check the weather channel everyday or every week because although its sunny it can be very cold. If your sporty or athletic then the gear should be brought from home because San Diego can get very expensive.
In three sentences UC San Diego is a diverse campus filled with people from around the world or around the corner for some. The area is great because you have the beach right across the street or the city right down the freeway. The weather here gets kind of crazy and sometimes San Diego in general is a pricey area.
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Talia from Santa Ana, CA
11/14/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun There are many events being held by all sorts of clubs and organizations, most involving food. Take a stroll by library walk and you'll find your next adventure.
Food and Dining There are many dining facilities that allow you to use dining dollars. You will still get bored of eating at the same places.
Dorm Life Muir is the best at hosting reslife events. You do have to make an effort to go out and participate though.
Academic Rigor Academic quarters go by fast and midterms sometimes end up doubling up on the same day, but there are many opportunities to study and get individual help.
Tips for prospective students Try everything and attend everything; don't forget about classes though.
In three sentences UCSD is a very large school divided up into six colleges. It's meant to create a greater sense of community within each college. Your social life is only as much fun as you want it to be.
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Jessica from Taiwan-Province Of China
11/18/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Call CSO escorts when you're walking back to your dorm late at night after hours at the library.
Clubs and Activities There are a lot of clubs available.
Great for these types of students You love studying in a spaceship looking library and you love the beach.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Look forward to Sun God.
What to do for fun Watch the sunset at the Cliffs or hit the beach with your surfboard. Both are in walking distance. There are many different recreation classes available, and Outback Adventures can be a lot of fun. With your bus sticker, you can also visit Old Town, Sea World, the zoo, or Scripps Aquarium. World-class destinations are close by.
Food and Dining You can find a variety of pizzas and sandwiches at Pines. The grill station has some tasty options too. The stir fry and pasta station are made to order and worth the wait in line. There are also nice burritos in Goody's, and they are open until late at night which is convenient. If you're looking for something fancier with your dining dollars, the Bistro has very nice sushis.
Dorm Life There are some good dining halls and some that are really not that nice. You can attend free activities held by the residence council and meet new people.
Academic Rigor Be ready to study alongside some very bright and ambitious minds learning from the leading scholars in their respective fields.
Tips for prospective students Be prepared academically and choose your college wisely. The six colleges have different general education requirements and would definitely influence your schedule and the classes you take. You will also be living in the college you get accepted to, so make sure you choose an environment that fits you.
In three sentences The people, city, and weather are all great. The academic is strong and there are a lot of opportunities available. Not to mention the beach and breathtaking cliffs.
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Jordan from La Jolla, CA
11/19/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Our campus tries to remedy its dark and eery forests with services like Community Service Officer walk-back programs at night, but this really isn't enough. Walking to and from Geisel Library at night can be so scary that I'll decide to just stay in and study. Our campus really needs to work on this problem.
Greek Life Greek Life is pretty active here, but EXTREMELY exclusive. If you're not in a sorority or a fraternity don't expect to be chummy with them. They definitely stick to their own and really only hold closed parties. If you're in greek life, you definitely will feel welcomed. If not, the opposite is the case...
Clubs and Activities There are SO MANY CLUBS on campus, and they all do a relatively good job of getting the word out about them by tabling on various spots around campus. If a student wants to get involved, all they really need to do is take a walk down Library Walk and stop and talk to all the engaged students on the sidelines who are extremely eager to welcome new Tritons into their groups.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God Festival is a tradition unique to UCSD. It is a huge music festival that gets well known headliners to come and jam for a day/night at RIMAC field with multiple tents set up with circus performers, artists, and provides student groups with the opportunity to perform at this well-known event. Everybody's friends always want to come from around the state to Sun God. It's awesome!
Bang for the buck I'm paying over $50,000 a year to go here, so it's hard for me to say that anything is worth that kind of money. But given the state of public education in the country today and it being undervalued by our elected officials, I would say that the opportunities given to students here can easily be turned into a career path that would fund your life. It's all about students taking the initiative to cease and find those opportunities.
What to do for fun The beach, obviously! It's only a ten minute bus ride away from campus and will bring you to one of the most beautiful beaches on the west coast: La Jolla Cove, where you can watch sea lions and various sea creatures in their natural habitat over a cup of coffee, dinner at a table overlooking the cove, or a round of hookah! Also, Pacific Beach is only a ten minute drive from campus and is filled with bars, shops and cafes along a street of fun: Garnet Ave. Even if you're not 21, it's a blast.
Food and Dining Our food is tasty, but mighty expensive and marked up in price. There exists no buffet options, only the option to get a cup of fruit that is then weighed in at costing 6 plus dollars. We do have very vegan/vegetarian friendly options all around campus that are made easily accessible to all students.
Dorm Life The dorms are fairly nice for a university. There are ocean views from some of them and the ones I'm living in are brand new. However, they are not conducive to community building. My freshman dorms, for example, had all of our suites on a separate floor (an entirely wasteful labyrinth of cement stairs).
Academic Rigor I feel challenged in my courses, most definitely. A full demonstration of understanding of the material has been required of me for a B or higher grade in all of my classes so far.
Tips for prospective students If you are interested in going on to research within your respective field of interest, UCSD is great for you. If you are more interested in pursuing liberal and social arts, such as ethnic studies or critical gender studies, I would not come to UCSD. Our school does not value these less marketable fields of study and is always talking about cutting their funding if not cutting them entirely.
In three sentences The University of California-San Diego is located in one of the most beautiful spots in the world, La Jolla Coast. The level of academic opportunities here is unsurpassed by surrounding universities and this school is perfect if you are interested in continuing on into research within your field. However, if you are looking for an archetypical social college experience, this is not the school you'll get that at.
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Aika from RPV, CA
11/24/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety very safe!
Great for these types of students Asians
What to do for fun School dances are better than any dances I've ever been to. They have one once every couple weeks. You can also take the bus to the beach, the mall, and restaurants near by.
Food and Dining I like the meal point system. You can use the points at dining halls or markets around the campus. They have pretty good variety of dining foods.
Dorm Life Freshman dorms are suit style, rather than halls like many universities. Each college has different dorms: ERC has the best dorms! Muir and Revelle recently built new dorms too!
Academic Rigor The academic aspect of UCSD is not too bad. It definitely depends on your major. The hardest major would be biology or chemistry. I am majoring in Human Development, and all the classes have been pretty easy and interesting!
Tips for prospective students Choose your college within the university wisely. There are 6 different colleges you apply for, and each college has different GEs and dorms. Choosing the right college for you will make the biggest difference in your college experience!
In three sentences The community is relaxing. They have great school dances and events throughout the year. Many opportunities offered!
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Cynthia from Long Beach, CA
11/29/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Every year during the Spring quarter my college, Revelle, drops a watermelon from a 7 story building and record where the furthest piece of watermelon landed. It's a tradition we have and the person who drops the watermelon is named the watermelon queen and they can be a boy or girl. After we celebrate with all kinds of watermelon delicacies.
What to do for fun There are so many activities and clubs to get involved in! Also, in your college they hold festivals and carnivals at school where everything is all free; all the college events are free and they are so much fun. San Diego has a lot of beautiful places around campus to go exploring with your friends when you have time.
Food and Dining Depending on where you go to eat is how you will feel about the food. For example, Plaza Cafe is one of the worst dinning halls and its always empty for a reason, but Pines is very delicious that I usually decide on walking further just to eat there. Each dinning hall has their own different style o it depends on what you like.
Dorm Life Dorming here at UCSD is one of the best experiences in my life so far! You become so close to the people who you live with that they become family and you guys get to do so much together. The perks about dorming is that you won't ever feel alone because you'll always have someone there and it's like having a sleep over every night!
Academic Rigor The classes here are difficult because most of the material you need to learn on your own. The professors only go over the basics of the material so you can't rely on them to get an A on a test. However, they all have office hours where you can go and ask questions and they are very helpful.
Tips for prospective students If you are coming to UCSD, do not be scared at all you will fit right in because there is a club for almost everything and if not you can easily create one. Students here are full of life and energy so we know how to de-stress. Just come prepared and ready to learn not procrastinate.
In three sentences This university is very diverse and the people are friendly that it makes you feel right at home. It is a unique school because it contains 6 different colleges in the university. This allows for students to grow stronger relationships with other peers because the campus is really big.
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Jasmine from Northridge, CA
12/02/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety From what I have heard, being out alone in the wee hours of the night is not the greatest of ideas. However, counselors, leaders, and advisors bring to the attention of all students, even before attending the school, the escorting services available on campus.
Greek Life There are numerous sororities and fraternities in various fields to help create opportunities for students.
Clubs and Activities The school has 500 and counting of clubs and organizations including those geared toward community services, particular majors or even hobbies such as crocheting!
Great for these types of students Students with the will and drive to learn in one of the most rigorous science major curriculum will fit right into the university. Also, those who prefer shorts and shirt weather with a high of 80 degrees and low of 50 degrees but an average of 60's will not regret coming for the sun and crisp ocean air.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus As a Muir student, the most famous tradition is the Halloween pumpkin drop off of Tioga, a freshmen dorm building. A massive 20+ pound candy filled pumpkin crashes into decent, spilling candy for grabs every which way. There are several artistic pieces intertwined with campus architecture and college mascots, such as Paradise Lost, the Sun God Lawn (which holds concerts every year), Warren House, and much more.
Bang for the buck Though the school may not have an indoor bowling alley like UC Davis, the university holds a unique masterpiece of ideas, intellect, natural resources, including 500+ clubs and organizations. Not to mention, the school holds top ratings and prestige throughout the country in the sciences.
What to do for fun Not to boast the resources all around San Diego,but there consists of at least twenty activities available at any time. Beaches surround the school for perfects views of sunsets, dips in sparkling waters, and hikes through reserve trails leading to the shores' soft sand. The mall is a short bus ride away. With a car and spare time, the ever so well known Sea World, Legoland, and San Diego Zoo await.
Food and Dining The campus consists of several dining halls and markets that allow a variety of dishes. And, as declared just recently, peta crowns UC San Diego as the most veagan friendly school (for those that fear scarcity of friendly food during college).
Dorm Life Every college dorm house has at least three events per week. They are often social, unique, and fun for all. The people do make the event; thus, the gathering of such welcoming UC San Diego students creates a robust dorm life.
Academic Rigor I am only a freshmen thus far so I cannot speak on behalf of the upper division classes. The quarter system takes getting used to (usually a class grade solely based upon two midterms and a final); however, it relieves the time consumed by busy work in high school. There are only a few chances to make or break the class grade.
Tips for prospective students Always, and I mean always, visit the university of choice. On paper, a school could sound like a dream (well that's what writers are for) but it can easily turn into a nightmare the second you step on campus. Only by a tour did I realize this was the school for me. Know what you want and know what to expect.
In three sentences The entire university is a balance of art, academics, and home. The scenic lush hiking trails and scatters of contemporary art throughout the campus indulges the eyes and spirit. UC San Diego indeed tests the limits of the mind but also comforts the heart of students with a sense of community and friendliness like no other.
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Ashley from Hayward, CA
12/08/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Food and Dining There are not only dining halls and markets in your own college, but in the other five colleges on campus. So, if you don't like what's being served in your area that day you can always go to another. There is also a fairly large food court area in the center of campus with many other dining options.
Dorm Life There are plenty of activities to participate in whether it's in your college or around campus. You just have to look for them. There are always posters hanging up with descriptions of events to go to.
Academic Rigor The classes can get fairly hard, especially the GE requirements. The majority of tests, especially in math and science, are meant to be hard. You will more than likely get poor scores. Don't worry too much though, because the majority of the time the scores will be curved at the end of the quarter.
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Student from California
12/16/2012Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Tips for prospective students Maintain a rigorous courseload and load up on extra-curriculars.
In three sentences It is a gorgeous school with a wide array of facilities for students. Its in Southern California, no need to worry about weather. It is great academically and provides plenty of research opportunities.
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12/18/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Every quarter during finals week, people run in their underwear through campus. Also, there is a random house that landed on top of the engineering building.
Bang for the buck UCSD has a good reputation, good professors, and is fun. So I think its worth the money.
What to do for fun There are a lot of paths to get to the beach. The buses are free so you can take a ride to the shopping malls around, or go downtown.There are usually club events going on too.
Food and Dining The food isn't great, but it's pretty good. There are a lot of places on campus to spend dining dollars. The only buffet-style dining hall is closed on the weekends though.
Dorm Life Each of the six colleges has different styled dorms. The ERC dorms are very close to the beach and are pretty spacious. The sixth college dorms look like summer camp cabins, and have a cozy homey feel.
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Gitanjali from Carlsbad, CA
12/20/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Security is everywhere, and they have a fast response if you need them.
Great for these types of students Science-lovers primarily.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The beach! Right next to campus. Crazy art and architecture. Sun God festival.
Bang for the buck It's a public school, so it's not as expensive as some other colleges. Great academics, and it's right next to the beach.
Food and Dining Decent food, but expensive for people who don't have meal plans.
Dorm Life I don't live on campus, but friends say that the dorms are okay, but not the best. Depends which building you're in. ERC has the best dorms.
Academic Rigor Tough classes, but definitely do-able. Just ask for help.
Tips for prospective students Choose the college that is right for you. GEs can be tedious, so look for a college where the GEs may interest you.
In three sentences Great environment, beautiful campus. Professors in general are intelligent and helpful. Safe and great on campus events and activities.
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Yu-Jen from La Jolla, CA
12/23/2012Reviewer is A past student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety excellent
Greek Life none.
Clubs and Activities a member for American Chemical Society, Hughes Scholars Program, Student Achievement Guided by Alumni, Harvest San Diego, OASIS(office for tutoring services), COSMOS Alumni,
Great for these types of students all kinds, but I think majority of studetns like to gather as a group rather than work as an individual. teamwork and networking
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus watermelon drop at Revelle College Sun God Festival (the most well known college festivities)
Bang for the buck UC San Diego has abundant resources and opprtunities for studets to partake jointly. A group of community that gather together to do what's right.
What to do for fun swimming, insesting (seeking variety of events and enjoy the food), gardening,
Dorm Life fun to hang out with. International House is very diverse
Academic Rigor competitive and respectful environment
Tips for prospective students 1. Please do career assessment and use their free resources to find out what exactly you like to do when you grow up. 2. Eat with professor, Dine with professor, and get to know them in person 3. Hang out with brothers or sisters who you admire and wish to learn from them. take the initiative to know students who are around you 4. always attend the TA's office hours and especially their tutoring sessions 5. get to know students who attend tutoring sessions or office hours (they are sometime the brilliant ones) 6. don't be too rushy with the curriculum, take course that are distinct from you major
In three sentences An institution with fabulous programs. A group of talented students who motivates, inspires, and serve among the needed. I am prideful to pursue higher education in the vibrant campus.
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Tyler from Windsor, CA
12/31/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety We have our own police force, campus security, night escorts, and panic stations. Campus safety is covered.
Greek Life Flourishing, wide spread, well developed.
Clubs and Activities There is a club for just about every niche, sometimes more. Everything from Video Game Development to archery.
Great for these types of students Anyone.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus We have 3 singing trees, a wall that makes lightsaber noises when kicked, our library was the snow fortress in Inception, a tile path shaped like a winding snake leading to a secret garded themed off of Milton's Paradise Lost, an Undie run every quarter, and a bunch more.
Bang for the buck Yeah, everything is a little pricey, including tuition.
What to do for fun Join a club, go to the beach, surf, hang out down town, explore SD, hit the clubs and bars in Pomona Beach. There are a couple activity centers on campus as well.
Food and Dining The on campus dining halls are sub par. Every now and then you will find a delicious exception. However there is a pretty decent selection of restaurants on campus such as Croutons. The Loft has fantastic food, if you are willing to pay a little more. And hey, we have our own pub on campus.
Dorm Life Campus is more of a small city, with 10+ different on campus communities, some of which are apartments, and we now have guaranteed 3rd year housing.
Academic Rigor Its pretty hard., UCSD is nothing if not academically rigorous. But it pays off.
Tips for prospective students Find the right teacher, make friends with students in your major who are farther along, and learn from their mistakes. Cape reviews, ratemyproffesor.com, and old course listings are your friend. Wait for the right teacher to teach your class, it could mean the difference between a F and an A.
In three sentences UCSD is a great school for just about any subject. However it really shines as a mecha for science and engineering majors, with a ton of research, and graduate opportunities, and facilities that you would be hard pressed to find elsewhere. For all that, the actual classes tend to be very academic, with little to no vocational focus.
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01/09/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun sports and really depends on the clubs you join if you'll have fun.
Tips for prospective students Start early and work hard from the start, you dont want to regret anything. Also, don't be afraid to join clubs, its a great way to meet people.
In three sentences The university provides many great opportunities with the many clubs that are offered. Academic wise, there are great and not so great professors. The campus is pretty clean also.
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Kristian from Highland, CA
01/10/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety UCSD is a pretty safe campus. Officers are around the campus especially at night. Students also have the option of calling campus escorts when they are walking home late at night.The city which UCSD is located in, La Jolla, is pretty safe overall.
Clubs and Activities UCSD has a variety of clubs to choose from and it's not particularly hard to start a new club if you feel that there is a need for one. Many clubs focus on professional development. There are lots of pre-med, pre-dental and pre-health clubs in general! Still there are clubs the celebrate culture like the Hawaii club. Our A Capella groups are amazing and always looking for new members!!. UCSD has so many clubs that it may seem daunting to choose one. They can also be hard to find and/or contact throughout the year so try to get as much info as you can during welcome week and as always regularly check out Library Walk!
Great for these types of students UCSD is great for students interested in doing research.There are lots of opportunities for those in the biological and physical sciences. UCSD also has a large group of students interested in health-care professions and it is definitely a school that can help pre-health individuals achieve their goals.It is also a great school for those that want to be engineers! Our engineering program is highly ranked and there are tremendous resources in and outside of UCSD.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus UCSD has a bunch of art pieces that may seem random but they are done on purpose. There is a singing tree, a talking tree, and of course a silent tree. The is the Warren Bear in Warren College, which is a big bear made of huge rocks. During, welcome week freshmen students from each college participate in the unolympics, which is a set of competitions between the students of each college, like dancing and races.But really, the Sun God Festival is the big event that UCSD is known for. There are performances by famous artists like Drake, Young the Giant and Kendrick Lamar. Even more so there is a dance stage, activities, and food sold throughout the event. But the best thing is that undergraduates don't have to pay extra for it!! Your student fees cover the costs so your entry is free!
Bang for the buck UCSD provides its students with a tremendous amount of opportunities for success. It can be intimidating, because there are so many smart people there, but if you make the most of opportunities that come your way UCSD can provide you with the tools for success. You could have a great paying job by graduation or be going to a great medical school. UCSD challenges students but it forces you to grow up a bit and work really hard, which I think is a pretty good thing!
What to do for fun 1) Go to the beach! The beach is only a short walk or bus ride away depending on where you live on campus or off. 2) Go to dances and events on campus especially the free events. Student pricing is usually provided for events that are not free. Participate in events especially during welcome week. There are no classes and tons of free food and events that are usually free. 3) Play sports like basketball, tennis, and soccer with your friends. There are plenty of basket-ball courts and tennis courts available. 4) Explore La Jolla and San Diego via the bus. This is only really fun if you don't get lost. 5) Go ice skating at the ice skating rink at the mall. 6) If you're over 21 explore the clubs of San Diego in Downtown, North Park, and Pacific Beach!!
Food and Dining The food options tend to vary depending on which college you live in and the dining hall closest to it. In general, it takes a while to get used to. Some dining halls are better than others, because of the variety of options they provide. I suggest trying multiple dining halls and not just eating at the local dining hall. And of course there is our Price Center which provides good food from a number of recognizable fast food chains.There are also restaurants on campus that provide pretty good food as well.
Dorm Life Depending on the college that you go to, the dorms will vary in age and modernity. On average the dorm experience is pretty good. You have free wifi, which works well most of the time. Resident Assistants try to put on fun events and interact with their residents, even though students don't usually go. But free food is often available at events and these of course are the most popular! Still, dorm life is really determined by the people in your actual dorm.I know quite a few people that have no problem living in their dorm, but have problems with their roommate. Dorm life truly tests your ability to get along with different people
Academic Rigor UCSD is a really academically challenging school. The Biological Sciences and Engineering Department are are extremely competitive and demand a lot from the students.It is easy to be discouraged in these majors. But each department tries to be fair and while their may be some disparities that is to be expected. There a numerous tutoring services on campus that can help. Professors and TAs also hold office hours which can be really helpful!UCSD is also a campus dedicated to research and it is wise for research of some kind to be involved in a students academic career. UCSD is a studious campus, so studying on weekends is a regularity. The libraries and study rooms are always full around finals time so be sure to reserve your spot or get there really early!
Tips for prospective students I suggest that students research the different colleges within UCSD and each of their requirements. Many students pick colleges without having any knowledge of the differences between them. Even though you may not get into the given college you want, it is good to be aware of the options anyway. Secondly, I suggest that students find programs or activities to join in their first year. This just gives you the opportunity to meet people outside of your dorm and to meet people with similar interests. Thirdly, live on campus your first year if you can. Many students who commute in their first year feel that they are missing out on the college experience, UCSD has commuter lounges, of course, but students often feel at a loss when they have breaks between classes or there is an event on campus that is late at night. Lastly, DONT BE AFRAID to change your mind!Many students come in thinking that they must be a doctor or an engineer. People often get talked down to about being things like an elementary school teacher and so they are afraid to pursue their dreams. Chang is a part of the maturing process and deciding that you want to be something else is okay despite the ridicule and criticism you may face. This experience goes by so fast and you don't want to spend it regretting your decisions
In three sentences UCSD is an intense experience that definitely tests your abilities as an adult. The atmosphere is welcoming and finding people you share interest with is relatively easy. Ultimately, UCSD is a great place to advance your knowledge of the world around you and to cultivate lifelong friendships.
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Hailey from Murrieta, CA
01/13/2013Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.
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Categories Comments In three sentences Great school, definitely going to apply here. They have an awesome location and a variety of sports. Hopefully I can tour the campus in person soon.
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Alyssa from Turlock, CA
01/27/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety I have never heard of anything bad happening on campus.
What to do for fun The beach is a walk away. Theres are many clubs and organizations on campus.
In three sentences UCSD is an academically challenging school. It is well worth it though. The campus is amazing.
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Alex from San Diego, CA
02/12/2013Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun Plenty of student sponsored events and activities.
Food and Dining Unknown.
Dorm Life Unknown.
Academic Rigor I've heard that it is very difficult, depending on your major, as are most UC schools.
Tips for prospective students Study hard, prepare for your major, or maintain very high grades in high school for hopeful freshman.
In three sentences The UCSD has a very positive, academic atmosphere, remarkable in comparison to other college campus I have frequented. UCSD has excellent facilities, including state-of-the-art research and athletic facilities. The Dr. Seuss Library is a marvelous structure with excellent views and powerful research tools.
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Brian from San Diego, CA
02/15/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun Go out, eat, have fun with your friends. Beach!!
Food and Dining Food on campus get boring really quickly. Cannot say how the dinning halls are due to the fact that I never lived on campus.
Academic Rigor Quarter system moves quickly and people are all striving for that A.
Tips for prospective students Go out and be open, don't be afraid to adventure to make new friends. Do what you want in college, but be responsible.
In three sentences Beautiful campus with great weather. There is a major emphasis on sciences, so opportunities are abundant. Wide assortment of groups and clubs available allowing anyone to find their niche.
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Tracy from Burbank, CA
02/18/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Clubs and Activities AMSA, Circle K
What to do for fun BEACH!
In three sentences Great school for non-party students or students who don't like parties on campus
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Molly from Monument, CO
02/21/2013Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Food and Dining So many different options around the campus.
Dorm Life The 6 college system is awesome! A great way to meet people who have similar interests and make friends. It also makes the huge school feel a little smaller.
In three sentences UCSD has a huge campus, it really feels like a small city. But, the 6 colleges really make it feel smaller. It is a big school, but because of it's diversity it is really easy to find your niche within the school.
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Kiele from Castro Valley, CA
02/25/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety CSOs are always there when you need them-anytime anywhere so you are always safe.
Greek Life A great experience for anyone who wants to participate.
Clubs and Activities MEMO- pre-med club persian club UTA-united taiwanese association CSU-chinese student union
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There are napping spots around campus, if you want to take a quicky.
Bang for the buck Price center is the place to go at night when everything is closed and you got a craving.
What to do for fun Look out for events by LGBT and DVC club, they usually provide the most popular events for nightlife for students. There are also many clubs and club sports that you can participate in. Greek life is also fun and exciting!
Food and Dining Pines is definitely one of the better dining halls. The bistro is also another great place to go if you want to spend your dining dollars. The other dining halls are not bad, but, it takes awhile to get used to.
Dorm Life Dorm life is the best! You meet a lot of great people in your suite and neighboring suites. There are also great stories to tell [;
Academic Rigor Depending on you major and the classes you take, some classes could be more difficult than others. General education classes for each college differ, however, some may seem easy at first, but you should not underestimate it.
Tips for prospective students Go on to the associated students website to look at the grade distributions to see good classes and professors to take. Go out to different events to try to make more people, you never know, there could be great surprises waiting for you.
In three sentences It's a great school full of terrific people with different backgrounds. Although there are 6 colleges, your experience is what you make of it. The clubs, greek life, and programs are a great way to meet people and get the college experience.
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Andrew from San Diego, CA
02/25/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety La Jolla is a very safe community in San Diego. The beach (Torrey Pines) is right next to campus, however, it is generally very quiet.
Greek Life Basically all of our clubs are called fraternities here at UC San Diego. There is basically no Greek Life as in the traditional term here.
Clubs and Activities There are a lot of clubs at UC San Diego, however, there isn't really a single club I feel interested as a pre-law student. There is a pre-law society and tons of honor societies.
Great for these types of students UC San Diego is great for natural science students (esp. engineers, computer science, etc.). It's also great for the social sciences (my major is political science). Although the emphasis in the social sciences would be the scientific methods and research methods aspect of social science.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Revelle College has their melon drop. I attend Warren and we don't have anything from our college.
Bang for the buck For the price you pay, you're only getting the name recognition of the university. Otherwise, you get a lot of opportunities (however, my friends from other UCs told me that they have a much broader range of opportunities at their campuses). If research and name recognition isn't you thing try the Cal State system, because they are significantly cheaper than the UC system.
What to do for fun Mostly attending advisory councils and pre-law seminars. Occasionally I would watch TV or read a book. Right now I'm studying for the LSAT to get into law school.
Food and Dining I do utilize their dining service and I would say they are between mediocre and average. They do emphasize on healthy eating (low sodium and low fat).
Dorm Life I can't make any judgment on this part because I don't like in dorms.
Academic Rigor There are some instances that my classes are easier than when I was taking AP classes during high school and even taking classes at community college. Nevertheless, the quarter system is extremely fast and the time taken at community college will not equate to the time taken here. Unlike community colleges classes I've taken that uses Scantrons most of the time, Bluebooks are often used here.
Tips for prospective students I came in as a transfer student, so I can only give tips from the prospective of such. UC San Diego is definitely faster than community colleges and the class size is significantly larger due to the usage of lecture halls. There are many classes to choose from, however, don't be surprised that classes will be cancelled due to the lack of students enrolling. Furthermore, the same competition of classes exists here as in community college.
In three sentences UC San Diego is an excellent university to pursue your studying and research endeavors, however, it is not top-tier education. Although there is a lot of clubs to choose from, social life is rather dull. There is a lot of cleavages among the six colleges and the university is very fragmented.
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Sarah Lewis
02/25/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus Safety Officers are always available to escort you somewhere if you do not feel safe in the middle of the night walking back from a lab, or a friend's apartment. Even without one though, you generally won't feel afraid walking across campus at 3 AM.
Clubs and Activities There is a club for everyone! Sewing, outdoor adventures, ethnic groups, dancing, juggling, pre-professionals... you name it, there is an organization for it.
Bang for the buck You get a great education for the $30,000 that you pay to come here, and you spend nearly half as much as you would at a private college. UCSD is one of the nation's top colleges for several areas. Just look up US News rankings!
What to do for fun Downtown La Jolla is a classy place for nice dining and shopping experiences. Downtown San Diego has everything, from amusement parks, to local eateries, to concerts and major events.
Food and Dining There are a variety of dining halls and markets available on campus, so that keeps most students from getting too bored of eating the same thing. The quality of the food and the variety is way above average compared to most other universities!
Dorm Life Dorm life varies based on the college that you are admitted into. Most dorms are nice, and the housing services employees do a great job of taking care of the students. The only problem is that some colleges' dorms are significantly nicer than others.
Academic Rigor Expect to be challenged. There are plenty of resources available for struggling students though, so do not worry about becoming overwhelmed!
Tips for prospective students UCSD is academically rigorous, so academic abilities are very important. Make sure to get involved, both before college and during your time here, because that will make the large campus feel a bit smaller and more welcoming.
In three sentences Coming here was the best decision I have ever made. The campus is beautiful, and the students are diverse and intelligent. It may be nicknamed UC Socially Dead, but I think there is plenty to do on campus to keep things entertaining.
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Mary from Hutch, MN
03/08/2013Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.
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Categories Comments In three sentences It looks amazing! Great location, great people. And great academics!
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Danielle from Long Beach, CA
03/09/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety I've typically felt fairly safe on campus, even later at night.
Greek Life Wouldn't know, but they spam you during rush weeks on Library Walk so you can get more info there. ;)
Clubs and Activities The Cross-Cultural Center, Womyn's Center, and Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Resource Center are some of the best in the world.
Great for these types of students Most of us are pretty serious about learning, so if you were one of the kids who cheated off your neighbor's tests in high school and got away with it. . . well, you probably won't get away with it in college.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Sun God Festival happens every Spring and. . . it's something you have to live through to understand? :)
Bang for the buck I believe tuition has increased almost 100% since I began in 2005, which is both disheartening and discouraging. Luckily UCSD is a big enough name that finding lucrative work, even in this economy -- with the right experience, the right angle, the right attitude, and *definitely* the right connections -- shouldn't be too difficult.
What to do for fun Blacks Beach is a fun place to romp around, but if you're looking for culture and history, check out Balboa Park. After 4 years at UCSD I still haven't seen all it has to offer! The world's largest organ plays, I believe, every Sunday there and is really a sight to be seen and an amazing thing to hear!
Food and Dining The food is pretty standard dining hall food at pretty standard (over-priced) prices. Some good options are available, including these special fries Warren now makes at the suggestion of my ex. :P
Dorm Life I was never blessed with particularly amazing roommates, but I would definitely do dorm life all over again if given the chance. It really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience -- not to say anything of its importance or necessity, though.
Academic Rigor Coming from a rigorous high school and having taken as many AP's as I could get my hands on at the time, I expected college to be a breeze. Upper-division classes definitely kicked my butt -- never underestimate the power of study groups and working through something multiple times!
Tips for prospective students Think outside the internet. Also, think inside the internet, using it as an academic tool to your advantage. Don't scold yourself too hard if you fail a quiz or two -- simply take action and utilize office hours and the other free tutoring centers on campus!
In three sentences Most of the professors show a fair amount of dedication to their undergraduate students, which is sadly a huge bonus at a top-tier research institution. Honestly, the campus is far more on the ugly than on the pretty side -- but the beauty of surrounding La Jolla, Hillcrest, and greater San Diego makes up for it. Culture and diversity can be difficult to find, but look in the right places and opportunities abound.
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TIFFANY from MILPITAS, CA
03/13/2013Reviewer is A past student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety There's never a time I felt scared around campus, but then again I always carried around pepper spray with me. They have CSO escorts that work until 2 am if you ever need a buddy to walk with you late at night!
Clubs and Activities There are TONS of clubs and activities to do! Many of the club members are so passionate and energetic about what they do in the club, so it's always enticing to join all of the clubs on campus!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Dr. Geisel Seuss's (the donor of Geisel Library) birthday is always celebrated on the 3rd story of the library building where they hand out free cake!
What to do for fun UCSD, also known as UC Socially Dead. There's usually nothing to do on campus, and on the weekends, the campus is completely empty. Unless you join a fraternity/sorority, life on campus isn't the most fun. However, there are plenty of sight-seeing to do around San Diego and La Jolla area, including the beach, Balboa park, the zoo, aquarium, etc.
Food and Dining Food at the dining halls vary their greatness from time to time. Overall, it's decent but very expensive. There are so many different dining halls on campus and each of them have their own specialty foods. Sometimes food will taste so bland, and others will be mildly satisfying. But I am a very health-conscious person so seeing the unhealthy and oily foods in the dining foods is a very big turn-off for me.
Dorm Life Dorm life is a must when you go to college, no matter where you decide to go. Dorm life isn't all that great at UCSD, but the good thing is that you're probably living with people who are studying to same classes and major as you are. The best thing about living in the dorms is being able to socialize with all the other freshmen. I've had many friends who transferred their third year but didn't want to do the dorm life because it was very expensive. The transfer students usually only had a handful of friends they met from classes. It's important to experience the dorm life at least a year of college. It's how I met my best friend now!
Academic Rigor Everyone at this school is brilliant, and the reason why it's considered one of the top schools in the nation. When you're surrounded by intelligent students and classes are graded based on a curve, getting an A in your classes is quite difficult. Moreover, grading on a curve promotes independent learning, only leading to academic competition and no help from your peers.
Tips for prospective students Make sure to take advantage of the libraries on campus, even better when they're open 24/7. Due to large student classes, it's important to approach professors during their office hours. Many days during the school year, there will be numerous amounts of career fairs. The best part is gathering all the free stuff and potentially discovering a new career path!
In three sentences UCSD is one of the most rigorous-coursed schools but definitely one of the most rewarding. With its eight-story library building, resources and study areas are always available and provide invaluable support for studious students.
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Eui won from Canoga Park, CA
03/18/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Clubs and Activities A lot of clubs are available you just have to search that fits your major and get you involved with other students in your major so you can become successful in your field.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Geisel Library is the best place to study, except if you find a nice grass area which is everywhere!
Bang for the buck Well unless your not from a wealthy family you will still have to live like a college student. There are lot of temptations around the school like shopping and restaurants, but I guess that is why its fun.
What to do for fun Depends on what you are into. You can do pretty much anything, outdoor sports, surfing, drink at a bar in pacific beach. find a nice grass and chill. Jam out with friends at studio? use your imagination.
Food and Dining they have food and drink stands everywhere so you'll always have what you want!
Dorm Life Really fun and you get to meet tons of other students!
Academic Rigor Only thing I dont like about it is the competitive impacted majors. Its really hard to switch into them if you didnt get accepted into the impacted majors.
Tips for prospective students Get involved and meet a lot of other students and faculties and make your relationship last!
In three sentences UCSD is a beautiful college, one of the biggest campus with diversity. I love The beach weather and the actually beach like 10 min off the campus. Super friendly students and faculty and great choice of classes.
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Lucia from San Diego, CA
03/23/2013Reviewer is A past student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students Relaxed students looking for a fun city.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Dr. Seuss is pretty big in this school, after all, our library is named after him. UCSD always celebrates his birthday every year with lots of cake and decorations. The student association also puts together a music festival every year during the Spring Quarter called the Sun God Festival. Over the years, the festival has definitely increased in size, funding, and popularity. Recent featured artists include Jimmy Eat World, Wiz Khalifa, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Paul van Dyk, Michelle Branch and much more. It's a staple that every UCSD student must attend and experience once during the course of their undergraduate career.
Bang for the buck The UC school system is definitely more expensive compared to other state universities. However, I felt that the quality of courses I received was much greater than some other schools.
What to do for fun Luckily San Diego is a decently sized city with moderate traffic that you can travel anywhere for fun. Attractions include: the World Famous San Diego Zoo, the Safari Park, and Sea World. You can catch a ballgame at Petco Park in downtown; and while you're there, be sure to visit Balboa Park and some of its museums. If you're 21 and over, San Diego has a great nightlife with plenty of different areas that can cater to your needs. Downtown San Diego is not the only place for bars or nightclubs; you can find other places in Pacific Beach, North Park, and much more.
Food and Dining Can't say much for UCSD dining for students living in the dorms. Price center does offer decent food (i.e. Panda Express, Subway, and some nicer sit-down restaurants). San Diego does offer wonderful Mexican food! Do try: carne asada fries or Tacos El Gordo if you're into street-style tacos.
Academic Rigor Pretty tough if you're not ready for a quarter system. You definitely need to hit the ground running, especially for biology science majors. Some courses I had only took your final exam as your grade; most other courses will base your grade on one midterm and the final.
Tips for prospective students Study study study! That is, if you care about your education. It's important that you find a good method that works for you. I honestly felt during the last few years at this school that students generally didn't study, or didn't study well. Avoid Geisel during finals if you're trying to actively study. Be smart about what professors you choose, it can make or break your GPA, especially if you're looking into applying to graduate schools later on.
In three sentences UCSD is located in beautiful San Diego, a city with great food, a great nightlife, and wonderful people. The school life can be very relaxed or busy, depending on your preference. Schoolwork is only rigorous if you don't keep up.
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User 3827
03/24/2013Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments In three sentences The campus is really pretty. (I really like the bear sculpture.)The architect is amazing and it's located near the Los Angeles area. And a fun fact about UCSD: UCSD's six college system is based on the Oxford system in England for a small college experience at a large university.
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Kashmoney from Jonesboro, AR
04/05/2013Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun As far as the virtual tour it appears to have a large amount of activities and organizations to participate in when you aren't in classes.
In three sentences UCSD has a beautiful campus and a ton of major options. Considering the fact that it is a UC school tuition is reasonable and is worth every buck.
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Monica from Auburn, CA
04/10/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus is very safe but it gets scary at night when there is no one around.
Greek Life There isn't a frat row. Greek life here is so-so.
Clubs and Activities There is a wide variety of clubs and activities that anyone can participate in.
Great for these types of students Students who like to study and work hard.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Graffiti wall in Muir is a cool place to visit. It's a hidden area inside the building structure with graffiti all over inside.
Bang for the buck I love UCSD even though some aspects are not that great. You truly have to work hard academically.
What to do for fun There are a lot of clubs and organizations that you can get involved in. There's not much to do off campus.
Food and Dining The food here is expensive and not that good.
Dorm Life There is not much choice in dorms. The older dorms look like they're falling apart but the newer dorms are excellent.
Academic Rigor The standard at this school is high. You are expected to work for you grade.
Tips for prospective students Know how to manage your time and you will be able to have fun and get good grades.
In three sentences I enjoy my time here at University of California, San Diego. The professors are wonderful and there is a lot of diversity on campus. I am so glad that I chose this university instead of the others.
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Amos from Aurora, CO
04/14/2013Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Tips for prospective students Have Fun!
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Branden from San Diego, CA
04/14/2013Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Food and Dining Panda Express!
Academic Rigor Very hard to get into
In three sentences I think its a very nice school to go to, the library design is so cool!
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04/21/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety We have escorts you can call and they will walk you home or wherever you need to go. Additionally, there are blue emergency poles all over campus.
Greek Life I'm not apart of Greek Life, but I've been interested and would like to know more and see how fun it is.
Clubs and Activities There are so many clubs from choir groups to bible study to recreational sports. The variety is good for everyone.
Great for these types of students Students who are used to the city life with lots of people and noise.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God festival is said to be amazing. A huge school concert with great line ups.
Bang for the buck The dining hall food is kind of pricey and same for the items in the markets.
What to do for fun There's so much to do at UCSD. Colleges always throw events and there are always bands and musicians coming to perform. The beach is not a far walk and there's shopping areas close by.
Food and Dining Again, the quality of the dining halls should be equal. Some colleges at UCSD like Eleanor Roosevelt College and John Muir College get a wider variety in terms of food.
Dorm Life I've met some of the greatest people through dorm life. However, I wish that the schools were more equal in terms of the quality of the housing areas. Some are nice than others and it should be the same for everyone.
Academic Rigor Ask for help when you need it. That's what the TA's are there for. That's why the professors have office hours. The quarter goes by quick and you don't want to fall behind.
Tips for prospective students Don't be afraid to go out and explore. Get to know new people, step out of your comfort zone. The only way to be happy here is to try new things and just take in the college experience.
In three sentences UCSD could be more adventurous and alive on the weekends. I like the people I've met here and some classes are really interesting. UCSD allows me to explore and try new things that I couldn't back home.
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Thomas from San Diego, CA
04/22/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety UCSD located in upper end La Jolla (San Diego), is in an extremely safe community and has an on campus police station with officers patrolling on and off the immediate campus constantly. Individual Residents Halls are patrolled by RSO (Resident Security Officers) who 24/7 ensure the safety of students in all forms of issues.
Greek Life UCSD has a very active greek life with many organizations whom provide a sense of unity for many students throughout the nation, partnering (usually) with their local SDSU counterparts the greek life always proves to be an interesting/helpful experience.
Clubs and Activities Numerous Clubs ranging from Music and Art to Rowing and Quid-ditch UCSD houses numerous activities that provide students with things to do at all times. College life associated with and apart from general/traditional studying.
Great for these types of students - Social - Sport active - Music/Art active - Government (student) interested - Academically focused
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God - Walk under sun god backwards for good luck before each testing period then on the day of your graduation walk through sun god facing forward for luck with your future endeavors. Art tag halls - an area found on campus where students are allowed by the university to express themselves artistically in an environment for students to see if the thrill draws them in. Nap Zones - Stressed from classes or just life? Take a break around campus in set Nap zones allocated for students to rest in peace for short periods of time when things seem to just get too stressful.
Bang for the buck Although expensive, UCSD provides an unmatched experience that helps students find themselves and experience the true student experience, as well as providing graduates with a degree from a globally renown university.
What to do for fun Participate in any of UCSD's numerous recreational groups. Join the skilled and numerous UCSD Pep Band run by students for students. Attend any of UCSD's sporting events and show your pride or any sponsored events on UCSD such as the renown Sun God Festival or the enjoyable shows at Porter's Pub. Or for a more local flavor visit any of San Diego's active scene or take a short walk to the nearby beaches of La Jolla.
Food and Dining UCSD has many excellent dinning facilities that provide a vast variation to students of all eating patterns (Vegetarian, Vegan, etc.). Well stocked and high quality students will not be disappointed with UCSD Dining.
Dorm Life With well kept and monitored dorms, UCSD dorm life (Res life) is a must for any new student. With like minded individuals and a welcoming safe environment you will find a great balance between an adult life of independence, studious activities, and relaxing socializing with peers.
Academic Rigor As said by many students, UCSD is on par with many higher standard/private institutions and as a top research organization the University of California San Diego provides a challenging structure to mold its students into successful educated individuals.
Tips for prospective students - Live on campus your first year. - Get involved in at least one student org. - Budget your time accordingly and keep a planner to minimize testing stress.
In three sentences UCSD is a vibrant college in the lovely city of San Diego, California. The university has a high expectation for its students and their success but provides numerous in insuring they prosper. Student life is vibrant and welcoming, making UCSD a standout school.
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Linda from Riverside, CA
04/24/2013Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Tips for prospective students If admitted to UCSD definitely attend their Triton Day event. This event is created especially for incoming freshmen and is worth the trip. There are plenty of workshops and booths set up to answer all of your questions.
In three sentences San Diego has been rated among the top public schools along with UCLA and UC Berkeley. Once you talk to a professor or Financial Aid counselor it is easy to see why. It is a beautiful campus, and their biology department is amazing. It is no wonder why that major is impacted!
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Paul from Lakewood, CA
04/25/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun Many people take surfing lessons seeing that the beach is pretty much right across the street from campus. Many go to the beach just to relax and watch the sunset. A lot of beach-related activities.
Food and Dining None of the dining halls at UCSD are buffet style which is probably the only negative of on campus dining. However, many of the dining halls are reasonably priced and the food tastes great. I think it's a plus not having buffet style dining halls in that you don't really get that freshman 20.
Dorm Life Pretty much every dorm at UCSD has been remodeled within the past couple of years and many of the second year apartments are brand new. So living on campus usually leads many first and second years spoiled with their living situations compared to many other UC's.
Academic Rigor The professors at UCSD are top notch and know their material. Many of them are not as lenient when it comes to curving grades and giving out extra credit. Most of the concepts are based on theoretical and research findings so it may be hard to grasp and understand concepts a lot of the time.
Tips for prospective students UCSD is a very science and research based university, so be prepared to learn about the theoretical side of many concepts even in the liberal arts majors. Many of the students at UCSD are well motivated and hard working students so be prepared for the competition in your class and majors, especially in the sciences and engineering majors.
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Chelsea from Hacienda Heights, CA
04/29/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Wednesday of every finals week, we do an undie run, where you run from Geisel Library to Revelle Fountain in your underwear.
What to do for fun Beach, parties, bike rides, UTC (mall), hikes, take trips to Old Town San Diego, Down Town San Diego, we are close to The San Diego Zoo, and also Sea World.
Food and Dining Like Dorm Life, depends on where you live. I live in Revelle, and the food is mediocre. You get the eventual hair in your food or find something that doesnt look appetizing, but hey, its a cafeteria. Just t mention, Revelle will be going through cafeteria renovation, so for the 2013-2014 school year, we will not have a cafeteria.
Dorm Life Depends on where you live i.e. which college. Each college is different, but in my opinion Elenor Roosevelt College has the best dorm life because it is the newest colllege.
Academic Rigor Quarter system, not very many breaks and not very many chances to go home. You are studying all the time and have mid-terms every 3-4 weeks in a 10 week period. Three sets of finals.
Tips for prospective students Come and visit! The campus is beautiful are there are so many things to see! Our library looks like a spaceship and is named after Dr. Seuss! Take a tour and visit the six colleges that make up UCSD!
In three sentences One of the biggest campus I visited. Beautiful weather, of course! Rumors are true, not a very social campus.
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William from Cerritos, CA
05/01/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Greek Life not great
Clubs and Activities almost any kind of club out there
Great for these types of students studious and introverted
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus sungod! Annual free music festival
What to do for fun BEACH
Tips for prospective students Be prepared to study a lot.
In three sentences serene, academically difficult, chill
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Nicholas from Bonita, CA
05/06/2013Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun Go to University Center and explore, get involved in all the action, and meet people.
Food and Dining The Japanese food place on campus called Shogun is so good!
Academic Rigor This school takes academics seriously.
Tips for prospective students Be friendly and outgoing, people are so nice at this campus!
In three sentences Now ranked in the top 15 universities in the world, UCSD is an amazing school to attend! The Jacob's school of engineering is also the 8th best engineering school in the world! Not to mention, everyone is so friendly, the campus is so beautiful especially the library, and there is always something to get involved in on campus.
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Christopher from Orangevale, CA
05/15/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students Open minds
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus UCSD undie-run, watermelon drop, sun-god festival
Bang for the buck Worth it.
What to do for fun Go to the beach, club, hookah bar, parties, etc.
Food and Dining The food is okay, Bistro is the best on campus.
Dorm Life Dorm life is variable on where you live on campus.
Academic Rigor Classes are mostly interesting, and mostly challenging.
Tips for prospective students Stay on top of studies, its not high school anymore
In three sentences UCSD is a great school with an amazing campus. The people are nice. The beaches are amazing
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Hannah from Mission Viejo, CA
05/25/2013Reviewer is A past student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus feels safe, even at night.
Greek Life There are no greek houses, but Greek life is still very much alive.
Great for these types of students Academic, especially those specializing in engineering and pre-med.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus I like the singing tree! It's a metal tree located across from the library that projects the campus radio station.
Bang for the buck College tuition is getting out of control.
What to do for fun Join intramural sports teams or go to the beach.
Food and Dining Food is about average for university food.
Dorm Life Enjoy living in the dorms while you can! It's your best opportunity to build friendships.
Academic Rigor There is lots of competition!
Tips for prospective students Join as many clubs, sports teams, or other organizations as you can! You have to make an effort to meet people and stay active on this quiet campus.
In three sentences UC San Diego has outstanding academics. The campus is gorgeous and right next to the ocean. Social life is slow, however.
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Rebecca Whealen from Oak Park, CA
06/10/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Number 1 most reported concern to the police is bike theft. We are safe campus with call boxes everywhere that will have the police come at the push of a button.
Greek Life Greek life is great! I'm involved in it and I think it's the best way to meet people and see how social are school is despite the reputation.
Clubs and Activities Over 600 clubs on campus. From religious, to service to different sports and hobbies. Lots to chose from
Great for these types of students any science major who wants to go into pre-health field or research. Engineering is the most popular major and we have a great program.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There is a secret underground tunnel system that has been converted into a graffiti hall that you can tag. Also there are lots of cool art pieces that are hidden amongst campus.
What to do for fun Downtown SD, Old Town and Downtown La Jolla are common hot spots off campus. There are great rec classes that take advantage of the beach like surfing and kayaking .
Food and Dining could be better but we are the #1 vegan campus in the US
Dorm Life The 6 college system makes it easy to meet people since you live in an area that is designated for about a high school size worth of people. This way you get familiar with the people in your college instead of just jumping into a college with 24,000 people it's like living in a little high school.
Academic Rigor Very difficult and I came from a competitive high school. Just be prepared for the adjustment of a college schedule. You think you have a lot of free time since you aren't in classes 8-3 everyday but the work load is greater then high school. Most people have a full 1.0 drop in their GPA after the first 2 quarters
Tips for prospective students Make sure you get involved in a club/organization/recreation team for a way to de stress and have fun on campus. This school has a reputation for being boring but there are lots of opportunities to get involved and to meet people, only if you take advantage of these resources.
In three sentences Beautiful location with a 2min walk to the beach. Prestigious research opportunities for undergrads in all departments. Unique 6 college system that makes the college transition easier and more welcoming to new college students.
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Hoai-Thuong from Stockton, CA
06/11/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sungod is an annual music festival free for students with entertainers such as Lil Wayne, Macklemore and many Youtube stars. It is definitely the event of the year.
What to do for fun UCSD is minutes away from the beach, mall, and walking trails. Many opportunities like hang gliding and flight classes are available nearby.
Food and Dining Some places on campus are better than others. UCSD is always improving their food and dining experience. They will be remodeling the lowest ranked dining hall in Summer 2013.
Dorm Life Many dorm-related activities allow students to get to know their neighbors. Dorm/building events provide a friendly environment to make friendships easily.
Academic Rigor Not an Ivy League school, but nonetheless still rigorous and requires much effort.
Tips for prospective students Prospective students should research the many opportunities UCSD has to offer in all its departments. UCSD is a great location for underwater studies, rocketship experiments, and theatre.
In three sentences UCSD is the school for everything from a top ranked arts program to widespread research facilities. It is an optimal choice for all majors through its 6-part college separation to provide a similar environment for similar majored students. This school is great for its hard working, yet beach friendly atmosphere and active campus life.
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Grecia from San Diego, CA
06/12/2013Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God festival and the GSA handing out candy on valentines day.
What to do for fun you can join one of the many clubs or take friendly walks around campus
Food and Dining many eating options from the popular Round Tables PIzza to Panda express t suit your needs and preferences
Dorm Life dorms are a great way to relieve stress ( you don't have to waste time driving back and forth) and can rest and/or study more.
Academic Rigor It is a university so be prepared to work harder than you did in High school..
Tips for prospective students Research the university and take tours. That is a great way to become familiar with the campus and the type of student life.
In three sentences great school for medicine. I have been planning to attend this school for pre-med and med courses. UCSD is my dream school
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Janeth from Hacienda Heights, CA
06/12/2013Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun There is an unlimited number of things to do in the San Diego area.
Tips for prospective students I am a prospective student therefore I have no tips for this other than visit the campus.
In three sentences I have read that this is actually a really good school. Not only with regards to its education but also with its environment. There is so much to do in the area and so much to learn.
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Christen from Cool, CA
06/16/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety After dark, there are RSO officers around campus and there is a number you can call to get an escort to anywhere on campus. There are also blue emergency beacons all around campus.
Clubs and Activities There are clubs for almost anything, including professional groups, religious groups, international groups, and gaming groups. They are all very open to new members and if there isn't a club for something you are truly passionate about, then all you have to do is make one!
Great for these types of students If you are willing to work hard and are looking for a variety of research opportunities, this is the place for you. UCSD is great for any student as long as you make the most of your time here.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There are plenty of interesting locations around campus. There is Falling Star, which is a small blue house that looks to be teetering on the edge of the engineering building; the talking, singing, and silent trees hidden in the forest near Geisel Library (which was the inspiration for the snow Fortress in Inception); the graffiti room in Mandeville; and much more! As for traditions, each of the six colleges has their own tradition, such as the Revelle Watermelon Drop and ERC's Rock n' Roosevelt. By far the biggest tradition of the year, however, is the Sun God festival in spring quarter, which is a huge concert/dance with a variety of artists, including famous artists like Kendrick Lemar and Macklemore.
Bang for the buck If you're pretty active in school activities and the like, then you'll definitely get your money's worth, though I have to admit it's a bit on the pricey side. They do provide a pretty good amount of financial aid, though, so money shouldn't be what prevents you from attending!
What to do for fun If you have spare time, feel free to head over to the beach! You can also rent things for camping and surfing for a decent price from an on-campus outdoors store. The university is in a beautiful location and there are plenty of places for hiking. If shopping is your thing, the UTC mall is a short bus ride away.
Food and Dining The food is okay, but it's nothing compared to a home-cooked meal. It varies by day and serving size depends on the server (if you're nice, they will generally give you more!). It's a bit expensive, especially for the mediocre quality, but you can just pay for food using Dining Dollars that are part of your housing plan (you get about $2,950 or so in Dining Dollars).
Dorm Life There are six colleges, and I am unsure of how many of them work, but I can say from experience that the ERC dorms are quite nice. You live in a single, double, or triple room within a suite of around 15 people. Suites are single-sex, but floors can be co-ed. The rooms are decently sized, but they can be a bit tight if you bring a ton of stuff. My advice would be to just bring necessities initially and then see what else you have room for.
Academic Rigor You definitely have to be dedicated to get an A, but it's very possible. Classes vary in difficulty depending on the professor, but harder classes generally have generous curves. If you're having a tough time with a class, just don't be afraid to ask for help! There is always someone willing to help you understand.
Tips for prospective students Be sure to work on your study skills! With only 10 weeks in a quarter, things move pretty quick, so it can be hard to catch up if you fall behind. Find ways to get involved and it'll really help you adapt to college life! Just remember that it's not simply a constant stream of work - find time to relax and de-stress!
In three sentences UCSD is an amazingly beautiful school that is less than 15 minutes from the beach. There is a club for nearly anything that interests you and there are all kinds of sports to partake in. The quarter system is a bit fast-paced, but very manageable - the professors and teaching assistants are amazing and will try their best to help in any way they can.
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Corey from Manhattan Beach, CA
06/18/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun Join pep band if you play an instrument! Great way to meet people and to continue to play music.
Food and Dining You just need to learn what isn't terrible and stick with that stuff. Everything is also really expensive.
Dorm Life It's descent. The dining halls aren't great and the triples are tiny but you get used to it.
Academic Rigor It's about as hard as my high school AP classes were.
Tips for prospective students Get involved in organizations. Always do your homework and don't skip lectures. However, discussions aren't always that important.
In three sentences I think that this university gives great opportunities for getting involved in research. I think the curriculum is challenging but it could more challenging. I also think the class sizes are large but that is expected at a public school.
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Christopher from Palmdale, CA
06/19/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety I work for the police department on campus. I know how safe campus is and what kinds of things go on. It is VERY safe.
What to do for fun BEACH!
Food and Dining It gets the job done.
Dorm Life Most students spend free time studying. Make your own fun.
Academic Rigor Study, or fall behind. The pace of the courses is extremely fast.
Tips for prospective students Do NOT fall behind or you will get left behind.
In three sentences UCSD is extremely rigorous but extremely rewarding. Classes are very challenging and require much dedication, but the payoff is great. Living close to the beach is a plus as well.
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Emily from San Francisco, CA
06/28/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Greek Life There is no greek row but greek life is pretty active.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus During dead week, there is an undie run that a lot of people participate in.
What to do for fun Take advantage of the fact that UCSD is next to the coast! Go to the beach to tan, play some beach volleyball, or have a bonfire. Attend the free dances that UCSD holds and join clubs that corresponds to your interests.
Food and Dining Food sucks since every week the menu is the same. You might want to go off-campus for better food. If you're hungry late into the night, you can count on the markets to be open until 1am. They have a lot of frozen food and drinks that'll satisfy your hunger.
Dorm Life How much fun you have in your dorm life really depends on the friends you make. Try to make friends on the first week of school because that's when everyone's open to making new friends and adjusting themselves to people; after the first week, everyone is pretty much settled in their own little clique.
Academic Rigor Classes aren't really that hard but your tests really do matter. Homework are rarely accounted in the grading system so make sure you study really hard for your tests.
Tips for prospective students UCSD moves on a quarter system and it goes by pretty quickly, so make sure you're not procrastinating too much. Prioritize your commitments, friends, boyfriend--whatever, make sure you're on top of your school work. Don't be anti-social and lock yourself up in the room all the time. Go out and have fun!! College is what YOU make of it.
In three sentences The social scene is pretty dead on the weekends because many students, who are mostly from California, head back home. The location is great since there's a beach, warm-ish climate, multiple bus stops around the campus, and low criminal activity. Classes are pretty big and attendance isn't mandatory unless your professor requires it.
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07/08/2013Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety If it is late at night, campus secrurity will always be there for you when you don't want to walk to your dorm alone. Just give them a call, and they'll be there to take you to your dorm within five minutes! I give them a 5!
Clubs and Activities There are over 500 clubs at UCSD, so there's bound to be something fit for you. If not, you can always create your own club with your friends! There's also a movie theater where sometimes new movies are shown even before the release date! I think UCSD really tries to make its students have enjoyable experiences here. I give it a 5 for all the great activities!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Every year there is a welcome week at UCSD where all the colleges compete in something called the Unolympics. We compete in all sorts of games and challenges which include the dance competitions among the colleges in hopes of winning The Golden Shoe. It's amazing!
What to do for fun Many fun events happen at UCSD. Many of which include the annual Sun God Music Festival, food events at each college, the farmers' market, and more! And, of course, you can't forget how close UCSD is to the beach! It's about a 10-15 stroll and a great way to spend time or catch up with friends after a long day of lecture or studying.
Food and Dining Each college at UCSD offers its own dining hall filled with varieties of foods from different regions, so you will never get bored! Also, UCSD has a food court with many of your favorite franchises such as Panda Express, Subway, and Burger King. And if you're ever in the mood for drinks or something refreshing, UCSD also has Tapioca Express, Jamba Juice, and a frozen yogurt place! I also give the food a 4!
Dorm Life From what I've observed, dorm life is seemingly family-oriented because each section of dorms obtains a living room that acts likes a central force to unify students from the dorms encircling it, creating kind of like a family room. Although quite snug, dorm life seems awesome! I give the dorm life here a 4!
Academic Rigor Since I am only a newly admitted student, I can tell you that, from advice and word-of-mouth, UCSD expects quality work and dedication in academics. I give the academic rigor 4 stars. It offers rigorous courses, but none of which are impossible -- you simply have to be motivated to work and study wisely! It IS a prestigious school, so be prepared to be challenged.
Tips for prospective students For students hoping to attend this prestigious university, I highly recommend those of you to keep a notebook to list all accomplishments, service hours and dates, leadership positions, and extracurricular activities made and done throughout high school. That way you won't be trying to hunt down dates and awards when it comes time to submit your college application. Also, challenge yourself with advanced classes. Not only will they boost your application if you do well, but it will also help you manage your time more wisely. The application process is the time to brag! Let yourself shine in the UCSD admission officers' eyes -- they will notice your hard work!
In three sentences The first day I visited UCSD was for its admit day or, better known as, Triton Day. In three sentences, the university struck me as immensely welcoming. It's school spirit was fresh and positively uplifting. And lastly, it's warm spirit made me feel at ease and happy to call it my new home away from home.
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Matthew from San Jose, CA
07/10/2013Reviewer is A past student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety There are rarely incidents on campus. La Jolla is a really chill town and the area is pretty safe.
Greek Life Never tried it.
Clubs and Activities I never really got into the clubs. I felt a bit too old going in.
Great for these types of students People that like to study a lot.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God festival is just about the only real tradition that anyone pays attention to. Oh and they also have the undie run on the last Thursday of the quarter. Its fun to do but kind of annoying if you aren't participating because of finals.
Bang for the buck The school is really well recognized and on name alone it will open up conversations. But I also think you get what you pay for, the class sizes are enormous and especially if the professors are famous, it will be really hard to get to know them.
What to do for fun On campus, there are the gym facilities. Again like the food I would get off campus for the really world class recreation. If you are into martial arts, San Diego has a really famous fight community. Black House gym is right up Miramar Road and ATOS jiu jitsu is on Convoy. If you are more of a water sports type, the beach is a 5 minute walk away from the campus
Food and Dining The food is decent as far as the cafeteria goes. Goodies has the best burritos on campus but to get the really good food get off campus and head into the greater san diego area. North Park has some of my favorite restaurants. Try Carnitas Snack Shack.
Dorm Life Dorm life is mediocre at best. College kids don't bother to clean up after themselves. I transferred in after several years in the Marines and I never got used to how dirty college kids are.
Academic Rigor It depends on what major you do but this school is very competitive. Its not quite like Berkeley where people try to sabotage each other but generally speaking, people are pretty smart and beating the curve is not always easy.
Tips for prospective students Don't waste your time with a Bachelor of Arts. Finding work is hard after college. Go for a technical degree like Accounting or Engineering. It may not be as fun but it will make you easily employable.
In three sentences I thought the class sizes were too big and the social life was a bit awkward. But for the price, you get a really good name to put on your resume. I just wish that the counselors could help a bit more with finding internships.
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Carl from Chino, CA
07/12/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus safety is very important and it seems important to the faculty and students.
Great for these types of students Definitely great for science majors of all kinds from what I hear.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Triton traditions include the undie run every quarter during finals week, krispy cream scream, the all campus dance, Sungod Festival, and other traditions that occur in each individual college.
What to do for fun For fun there is a lot to do. You can go to the beach, which is within walking distance, play sports on the fields, go swimming, play pool, watch movies, bike, walk around, or bus to the local shopping centers. Lots of fun stuff is available by your RA and student council, so keep your eyes open.
Food and Dining There are many options for food and dining on campus and they all have quite a variety as well as good food and service. The food is pretty good and from people who visited from other schools, UCSD was much better.
Dorm Life Dorm life my first year was excellent! My roommate and I became great friends and we also got along with my other suitemates. The RAs try to build a feeling of community in the building and my RA was decently successful, but that isn't always the case.
Academic Rigor The courses are difficult and rigorous and depending on what college you were accepted to then you may have to take a lot of them. Seminars are as close as you can get to an easy class in college and other than that I have yet to find an easy college class.
Tips for prospective students UCSD is a wonderful place and it is recommended that you visit any campus that you want to go to before you commit to it. I loved the campus when i came to visit and I also love the surrounding area as there is much to do all over. If you are already committed to UCSD then be prepared to study and work just as hard if not harder then in high school, but enjoy your time as well.
In three sentences UC San Diego is a wonderful university to go to. It has a wonderful campus and community where everyone can find some club to fit into to or make their own if they wish. Along with rigorous academics UCSD ranks among with the top universities in California.
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Darlene from Bell, CA
07/16/2013Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Read your portal email, the staff always have something to say.
Food and Dining Food is food and I hear the vegetarian and vegan lifestyle is extremely satisfied with the variety of choices.
Dorm Life It's great! You meet your true friends here.
Academic Rigor I believe it has much to offer from challenging courses to not so much.
Tips for prospective students Get to know people, people know others that can help you with just about anything. Behave your age no one wants to see the new incoming undergraduate class as childish and immature.
In three sentences It has a very friendly atmosphere. It has so much to offer. It is perfect for any student since there are 6 colleges for the underclassmen which fit into different criterias to help them feel welcomed.
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Andrew from Salinas, CA
07/19/2013Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Daily worship of the all mighty Sun God
What to do for fun Praise the Sun God, Walk the beaches (both nude and non-nude available) go to dances, eat, play telephone, i love my neighbor, form skits, do it like bernie, learn dance routines
Tips for prospective students Go to orientation! Do not stay in your dorm rooms all day!
In three sentences With wonderful climate, conveniently located next to the one of the most gorgeous beaches in California. Includes an extremely fun and informative orientation program for incoming freshmen. Rigorously and actively academic, making the school quite prestigious.
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Jacob from San Jose, CA
07/23/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety UCSD is located in one of the safest cities in the nation. Campus-wide security is efficient and active, so students need not fear walking around late at night. Crimes are seldom heard of, and most days pass by without unfortunate event.
Greek Life UCSD isn't know for its Greek Life, and it certainly shows on campus. Though students proudly display their letters for all to see, the influence of fraternities and sororities is not great. However, if you're looking into greek life, you'll still find that there's plenty of fun to be had.
Clubs and Activities Once you get plugged into one of the many organizations at UCSD, you'll find yourself getting closer to the people whom you'll soon consider your family. It's hard to find a community here at UCSD until you get plugged into some sort of group or organization, but once you do, it's smooth sailing. There's a club out there for almost every interest, so one shouldn't fear not being able to find a group where he/she will fit in.
Great for these types of students Slightly geeky students who still know how to go out and have fun. People who love the beach. Students who know how to work hard and play hard.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Walking backwards under the Sungod Statue on Muir Lawn.
Bang for the buck As a public school within the UC system, UCSD is notable for its leadership amongst colleges and universities in the sciences and engineering. Seeing as tuition is much cheaper than that of an Ivy League or other private university, the education one receives here is definitely worthwhile.
What to do for fun Go to the beach, indulge in your favorite hobbies, go bike riding, soak in the sun, read, etc. Your social life in UCSD is what you make it. There are many who would say that this UC is Socially Dead, but so long as you put yourself out there, you'll find yourself enjoying your time at UCSD.
Food and Dining UCSD isn't exactly known for its dining experience, but it's not like you're eating plastic for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are some decent things to chow on during your stay on campus.
Dorm Life As a Freshman, your experience in the res halls will be both pleasant and miserable. On one hand, the social life is wonderful, and you'll make many new friends and learn many new things. On the other hand, however, the quarters are relatively cramped, and you might find yourself wishing for more personal space. The apartments offered to 2nd years and above are much more comfortable, but a bit more isolated; they're great places to come home to after a long day.
Academic Rigor UCSD definitely doesn't slack off when it comes to difficulty in courses. Students should make sure to actually study and invest quite a deal of their college life in the books.
Tips for prospective students This school is not to be taken lightly-- it is academically-rigorous and classes are generally not walks-in-the-park. Make sure to set aside a good amount of time for studying, but at the same time, don't forget to go out and enjoy the great La Jolla weather. UCSD has a lot of hidden secrets, so feel free to explore and make the most out of your college experience!
In three sentences This is a fantastic school for any aspiring scientists or engineers. The weather and general atmosphere of the campus is just as amazing, and provides an excellent setting for students to study in. UCSD is a school in which pursuers of academia will succeed and flourish under proper guidance and a bountiful pool of resources.
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Ucsd student
07/26/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety This is the safest school campus you will ever find. Nothing bad happens; people's things don't even get stolen. You could leave your bike on the sidewalk and come back the next day to still find it there, because people would just assume that you went to the restroom.
Clubs and Activities The school has more than 400 student clubs and organizations, so everyone is bound to find something that is right for them.
Food and Dining Lots of variety in the choices of food. Great with the different colleges and always easily accessible. Obviously, not all the food is great, but after a while you learn which on campus dining places meet your specific taste.
Dorm Life The dorms on college are great and the individual colleges on campus allow students to become really close with their community. The option of apartments on campus is also a great choice for people who are looking for an option outside of living in the dorms.
Academic Rigor The academics offered at UCSD is great. Professors are there for you and they want you to learn and if you need help they have office hours for you to go to and ask for help. The curriculum is a little hard but that is what you get for going to a UC school, they make you strive to be better.
Tips for prospective students Check out the school to make sure that it is right for you before you choose to accept their offer of admission.
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Jannie from Santa Barbara, CA
07/28/2013Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety This campus is unbelievably safe. At night, they have a service that has someone walk you back to your dorm at night I'd you don't want to walk alone in the dark.
What to do for fun Every year, there are countless clubs to join and the is always something to do. Because of the beach close by, many students take up surfing. However, on campus, you can still find part-time to keep you preoccupied.
Food and Dining The good is great, especially since there are great chain restaurants right in campus.
Dorm Life The dorms may seem a little packed, but remember that you'll mainly be out and about and you might just be there for sleep.
Academic Rigor The classes vary in terms of difficulty, but any class can be conquered with motivation and help, and the tutoring available from OASIS definitely helps to make a difference in your grades.
Tips for prospective students Although you may think that you'll. Have to spend all of your free time studying, there will actually be pretty of free time available throughout the year, so get involved in activities that you love
In three sentences UC San Diego has one of the most beautiful campuses I have ever seen. From the open campus to the beach that's just 5 minutes away, there is always something for everyone's interests. In addition, the staff there is one ofthe best in the nation, and it is tough to find a school as great as this one.
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Ho-Wei from La Jolla, CA
09/15/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus is generally very safe. There are a few harassers now and then from either students or non-students but UCSD sends out alerts to students, faculty, and staff members about these issues so students know what to watch out for. Aside from that there are campus polices around and about, especially at night. However, that doesn't mean one should linger alone past midnight all the time. It's best to travel with someone you can trust past midnight.
Greek Life I am not greek so I can't give a real opinion on greek life. I have however partied with the greeks and I'd say students at UCSD generally know how to balance their studies whist having fun. Word of advice, it's not good to go alone to parties and get plastered, or even go with new friends whom you can't entirely trust yet. It's just embarrassing and dangerous to put yourself in a position where you can be taken advantage of. And believe me, it happens ALL the time. Any university, any club, anywhere. At least be sober enough to walk and get yourself home.
Great for these types of students Hardworking, serious about academics, loves science and technology, loves the beach and good weather.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There are talking trees on campus..
What to do for fun You could go greek, play intramural or club sports, join organizations or clubs, party at on/off campus parties, go to pacific beach and check out clubs and bars, go to music events such as open-mic nights, go to the beach nearby, go to the cliffs, sign up for volunteer work...get involved! You have to go to events and put yourself out there to have a good social life. Even if you are the gaming and staying-in type, you can still join a video game club and game with them. Bottom line is, don't complain that UCSD is boring if you don't put in the effort.
Food and Dining Food is not very great at UCSD and they waste a LOT of food as any university does. To get good food you must drive all the way to convoy where all the yummy Asian restaurants are, such as KBBQ.
Dorm Life I don't live in a dorm I live in an apartment with 3 other apartment mates, one being my roommate. It's chill, you get to buy your own groceries and cook.
Academic Rigor It's doable but it's very rough in the sense that your grade is based on two or three examinations. If you fail one your final grade is not going to look pretty on your record. That is the reality. You might not do too well in your freshmen year but generally by the second year you start to do better because you know what is expected from you. Don't trip! Go to your lectures! Don't sign up for early morning classes when you know you're not a morning person. Trust me, it'll suck and you might end up skipping many lectures.
Tips for prospective students You want to get at least above a 1800 for SATs if you already have good grades. If your grades are not that hot then you might want to score really high on the SATs. Public schools are all about numbers and your college essays. Extracurricular activities are important, but not as important as it would be in a private/liberal arts college. I'd say keep your grades up rather than relying on SATs. Most importantly you must show that you do better each year, rather than the other way around.
In three sentences University of California - San Diego is an academically orientated university that's predominantly geared towards the sciences and engineering. The weather is chilly at night but generally very nice. It is a well-known university with a beautiful campus and a laid-back atmosphere.
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Sarah from Rapid City, SD
09/25/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety There are some situations where people get their bikes stolen if they are not locked up, most of the safety on campus is very good. They have escorts who will walk you back to your dorm is you are far away and it's dark.
Clubs and Activities There are soooooo many clubs and activities and UCSD is very persistent on students joining a club and making friends and memories if people are willing.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There is a tradition called the Watermelon Drop, which is at the end of the year. It's supposed to be a big event that hold competitions to see who could be the Watermelon King/Queen.
What to do for fun There are many different recreational things to do on campus. There is a generous amount of clubs and organizations that have almost every kind of religion, race, or certain preference that someone campus could enjoy and join. You can also go to the beach by just taking the bus!
Food and Dining The dining hall food is better than cafeteria food. It's not anything extravagant, but it is still good food. If you find food off campus or go to a chain restaurant on campus, the food is just as it would be anywhere else. Very satisfying.
Dorm Life Some dorms are a little small, but they are very clean and looks very nice, especially for a college dorm.
Academic Rigor Very good educational system. Have very strict rules and policies, but they also know how to be relaxed on other things.
In three sentences UCSD is a very nice and clean public school. The campus is very safe and has a great learning environment. UCSD also has diversity and welcomes any kind of person.
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Javier from Lake Elsinore, CA
10/12/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun There is a lot of activities and clubs arounf campus. Being bored is something that you would rarely find yourself in. You can easily take a 15-20 min walk and you'll be at the beach.
Food and Dining At first I thought the food was great but after 3 weeks of being here I quickly got bored of the same food. THEY DON'T CHANGE THE MENU!!
Dorm Life I really dislike the dorms. They are really small and the closets are just not big enough. The dorms at Revelle are ugly and out of date. They need to be renovated.
Academic Rigor The classes can be difficult at times but with a bit of extra study time you can surely carry them under your belt.
Tips for prospective students If you want to major in an Engineering field you should apply to Warren College. Make sure to get all your classes early since they run out quick. If you know what you want to major in then that's much better.
In three sentences It a very large campus that's right next to the beach. They have a top in the nation engineering school. They rank 8 in the nation as one of the best public schools.
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Jenny from Oakland, CA
10/27/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus Safety is priority to UCSD Student Service Officers. SSO serve students in every need. For example, there are SSO bicyclist that would be called very late at night to personally escort students back to their dorm with any harm.
Greek Life The greek life is very strong and well-known at UCSD. Also, they are the life of the party and very spirited to UCSD. The greek life is something a lot of student invest their time in because it feels like family and it creates a good social networking with other folks.
Clubs and Activities The social justice organizations are very empowered about their issues and well-spoken to get their opinion out. I highly recommend joining a social justice organization because it shows a different side to every issue and students decide which issue they want to support. Students make a lot of changes at UCSD.
Great for these types of students UCSD is great for students who wants to focus hard on their education but conservative social life. Student that study hard, party hard. However, I feel any type of student is highly welcome at UCSD because there is always a group that welcomes distinct students.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus SunGod Statue has a mini tunnel that people can go through. It was once said that it gives students good luck on their test if they walk through that tunnel. There is also Big RED/GREEN chair in Revelle College that is amazing. It is one of the Stuart Art Collections around UCSD.
What to do for fun To be honest, the best thing to do in UCSD's campus is attend to on-campus events and parties. There is SunGod, LGBT dance, ELECTRO, and much more. There is also great organizations to join and allowing students to make a change in their school.
Food and Dining The dining halls in UCSD is very conservative because they do not want students to have Freshmen Fifteen. The food is amazing prepared and cook in front you by excellent and well-trained students and staff. The student and staff that works there cater to the student's needs and taste.
Dorm Life Dorm life is amazing, exciting, and fun. You have Resident Advisors that create events and get togethers for student to mingle and get to know people. This allows student to have friends and become social at the same time.
Academic Rigor The classes are 30-300 students per class, depending on the major/minor a student picks. The courses will have some leniency but also challenge student's creativity and passion for their major. Students need to work 10 times harder in order to have the excellent result.
Tips for prospective students Students should be prepared for rigorous courses and interactive discussions. Also, students should be involve in student organizations in order to feel occupied and proactive. Students who work hard in school and give back to the school community get a lot of results to improve UCSD.
In three sentences University of California, San Diego is one of the most prestige and well known schools in California. They are highly known for their research capabilities, and professor support. I would rate this school a 8/10 for their academics and student support.
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Towani from La Jolla, CA
11/15/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety It is very safe. If at all you feel afraid, you can even call the campus security escorts!
Greek Life There are many options
Clubs and Activities There is something for everyone
Great for these types of students All types of students can fit in.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Pumpkin drop.....A gigantic pumpkin is dropped off a 9 story building filled with candy every halloween.
What to do for fun There are many events thrown each week to attend. you could do recreational activities too and the beach is not too far away.
Food and Dining Great food and a variety of eating places!
Dorm Life Rooms are in good condition and if you are lucky, you could get an ocean view. There will always be someone to click with.
Academic Rigor competitive enough to give you a push. work hard play hard.
Tips for prospective students If you are into research and anything biological, this is the best place for you. The people are friendly and the community is very diverse. There is a place for everyone.
In three sentences Although it was not my first choice, I have quickly re-evaluated my opinion. It is a great school with amazing students and staff too. The weather is great and it couldn't have been situated in a better place than right by the beach.
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Kevin from Los Angeles, CA
11/28/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Very very safe and secure.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Undie run during finals week where everyone strips down during finals week and runs around campus. Gigantic pumpkin drop from an 11 story building for Halloween. Sungod Festival. Geisel Library is very nice.
Bang for the buck It's pretty expensive but I still have a few hundred left over every quarter with just a $2000 loan. Everything on campus is pretty pricey but with the dining plan given it balances out okay.
What to do for fun With the beach a 10 minute walk from the school I'm not sure how some people don't have fun. Most of the people I see on campus are pretty social and welcoming so long as you meet them halfway. You can always see people walking around and doing things on a day to day basis one just has to make the effort to be a part of it.
Food and Dining Definitely depends on the location but if you walk around enough you could easily find a good place to eat. Still the meals do get a bit repetitive at times. All depends on your tastes!
Dorm Life The res halls are a bit cramped because of all the freshmen but they're cozy and depending on the college could look quite nice. The only thing missing is a kitchen but if you're not that independent yet then the res halls are a comfy fit.
Academic Rigor If I hadn't taken so many AP classes I could definitely see how a lot of my classes would be challenging. They're tough but there's always a source of help available and I've found most of my professors and most of my friends' professors to be fair with grading.
Tips for prospective students Definitely take a tour around campus and you'll fall in love. Check out the different colleges and the systems they run on to see which is the right fit for you. Look into all the clubs, fraternities/sororities, and organizations that are out there; there is literally so much to do.
In three sentences This university by far exceeded my expectations. Excellent teachers and classes and though enrolling in classes is tedious there is always a ton of other classes available to take. The people here are great and I don't feel like I'm being brought down by anyone.
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Katie from Orange, CA
12/01/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus is very safe. If you feel uncomfortable walking alone in the dark from one part of campus to another, there is an option to call a Campus Security Officer who will personally walk you to your destination.
Greek Life As I have said, Greek Life is very active at UCSD. Students are proud to wear letters and represent their fraternities or soroitities. They participate in fundraisers and provide a great way to make friends.
Clubs and Activities There are so many clubs offered, probably over 500. If there is something you are passionate about there is most likely a club for it. I have even seen a Quiditch Club playing on one of the fields.
Great for these types of students For those who wish to live with international students and experience different cultures first-hand, there is an option to live in International House, or I-House.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God is a super fun day long concert that occurs every year at RIMAC field. It is similar to coachella. Bands play, venues are hired, and you get to get away from the stress of classes.
Bang for the buck Most restaurants and dining halls on campus are very overpriced, so try to eat off campus or in PC where the food places are independent of UCSD.
What to do for fun Most people like to play sports using the recreational facilities, surf at the nearby beaches, shop at UTC mall, go off campus to nearby restaurants, and just live the normal, peaceful lifestyle that La Jolla has to offer. Parties do occur just as much as the next school, but we do not have a Greek Row. However, Greek Life is very active at UCSD.
Food and Dining Honestly, the food is not the greatest or healthiest most of the time, but healthy choices are offered and you just have to be sure to make the right choices for you. The food is mass produced and I would recommend eating at Pines, Goodies, or PC.
Dorm Life Dorm life is exciting and new to all who experience it. It is a great way to meet new people and to have the college experience. Make sure to set ground rules and to communicate with roommates in order to avoid problems and drama.
Academic Rigor The academics are challenging from a science major's perspective. However, the challenge is reassuring of a quality education. If you put in the work, it will pay off.
Tips for prospective students Get involved. Coming into such a large university from a small high school makes it challenging but not impossible to find one's niche.
In three sentences UCSD not only is located in beautiful La Jolla, San Diego, but the campus is gorgeous and uniquely modern-looking. It offers so many great opportunities to pursue your goals and provides a challenge in the academic area as well. Campus life feels sophisticated and friendly and I would definitely recommend this school to any prospective students.
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Avtar from Fremont, CA
12/02/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Greek Life Amazing. Not part of any Frat, but I've heard so much great things about the Greek life here, no hazing, and everything is great about the frats.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Every halloween we have a campus tradition, where we take a huge pumpkin on top of one our engineering buildings, and we drop it from the highest floor. Many students gather up down, and enjoy the halloween celebrations as this is done.
Bang for the buck I suggest students to get a bike or a scooter on campus, since the campus is so big, and if you don't like that walking, then be prepared to do so.
What to do for fun There is the beach that is less than a mile away from campus, and there are many activities on campus for students such as rock climbing, and biking. In downtown La Jolla, there are many great places to check out such as the coves, and other beaches around San Diego area.
Tips for prospective students I highly encourage students to apply to as many schools as they can, and in such a competitive world, more than grades will matter. As an individual, you have to ask yourself, what defines you, and what is that defines you that is so distinct about you. I recommend prospective students to keep their grades up, and have your college essays edited by other college students who have experience in the process.
In three sentences UC San Diego has offered me an amazing, and diverse perspective into the real world. I came in as a shy, and timid individual, but as my years have progressed here, I have become a vigilant, and well spoken individual with future endeavors of becoming a Mechanical Engineer. UCSD is in my opinion, one of the top elite schools that offers a great education, and cultural enrichment to students.
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12/14/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun There are lots to do for fun. There is a beach called La Jolla Shores really close to campus. Hopping on a bus will guide you to it in less than 15 minutes. People kayak, surf, sun-bathe there. There are more beaches all along the coast that can be visited with public transportations or cars. There are also many food places to be visited.
Food and Dining The one downside for on campus dining is that unlike other UC schools that have buffet style, we have dining dollars which must be used to pay individual food items.
Dorm Life There are dorms and apartments for each of the 6 different colleges within UCSD. From my experience living on campus, I can say campus dorms are very convenient and a great way to meet wonderful people.
Academic Rigor There are a lot of students with great potentials and academic ability. Academia is considered very important at this school and there are many high achieving students at the school.
Tips for prospective students A tip would be to make sure that UCSD is a school with the majors of interest to you. This is a school especially well ranked in the division of sciences and top of the notch research.
In three sentences This is a great school with diverse field of studies and opportunities. The location is wonderful in sunny southern California with beautiful beaches and cool weather all year long. The faculty and approachable and the variety of student organizations available to intrigue any student.
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Jill from Ghkl, MA
12/15/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety It's in La Jolla, so nothing much happens. It is a very safe and wealthy community
Greek Life The greek life is huge
Clubs and Activities People are really into frisbee. Lots of Asian-American groups and Christian groups.
Great for these types of students Science/ Engineering focus
Bang for the buck It is a public school, so cheaper- but you get the public school experience with huge 300- people classes and everything is graded by TAs
What to do for fun If you have a car, there is plenty to do in San Diego. Otherwise, the beach is always close. There are busses to the mall
Food and Dining Very greasy and expensive.
Dorm Life It all depends on which college you are living in. ERC has the nicest dorms, Marshall's are small, Muir's are okay, Revelle is old (but they just redid 2 of the buildings), Sixth looks like log cabins, and Warren is far from everything.
Academic Rigor Many science classes are fairly challenging- mostly it depends on the professor.
Tips for prospective students If you are not a STEM, PoliSci, or Theatre major, I would advise picking another school. There are also 6 'colleges'- do research on their GEs before you apply.
In three sentences Most of the school is either pre-med or engineering. The campus is huge and has a lot of cool art. The school is very research intensive and there are several opportunities for that.
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12/26/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Never really security patrolling. They should be more visible to the students to bring a little more comfort.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Undie Run! and the screaming out the Window for 10 minutes during finals week. People have crazy ways of letting out their stress.
What to do for fun Plenty of activities to participate in! But, choose wisely and be safe. Join various organizations and commit.
Food and Dining I am so used to home cooked food that it's hard to get used to this type of food, but they serve some great food. The prices are raised up in some areas.
Dorm Life John Muir College has a great view of the Ocean, if you have the luck of being place on the 6th Floor or above. Food is alright, but never enough to fill you. Roommates will always be a problem, but you must get used to it. Roommates and Suite mates will always be the toughest obstacle.
Academic Rigor Classes are tough and teachers are all brilliant. Make sure to attend office hours of the professors and TA's. There is a ton of assignments to complete, but worth it all in the end.
Tips for prospective students Focus, don't forget to balance your life. Create a schedule for yourself and do not forget to contact your family always. Get involve! Grab and search opportunities.
In three sentences Awesome place, my dorm has a great view. Great place for a scholar to thrive. Tough to keep out distractions.
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Brianna from La Mesa, CA
12/27/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety There is the CSO to walk you back to your dorm. We are located in one of the safest parts of San Diego with rarely any criminal cases.
Greek Life We have no Frat or Sorority Row because apparently it is illegal in La Jolla to create such houses. Most of the Greek Housing is unofficial and are in big condos that the group rents out yearly.
Clubs and Activities We have a good variety of clubs, but most of them tend to very fairly inactive despite being chartered. The bigger clubs are well known around campus and take commitment to attend. Most of the meetings are held at night because that is when most students do not have classes.
Great for these types of students If you like modest and friendly people, then UCSD is good for you. Most of the students are also academically rigorous and hold high expectations upon themselves, which leads some of them to become sheltered and not very sociable. It is also good for students who enjoy a quiet setting, for most students go off campus during the weekends to either go home or go out to hang out. However, don't listen to the stereotypes about this school. While this is definitely not a party school, there are a fairly good amount of parties that you can find. Not everyone is socially awkward. Most of the students, from what I have found, are fairly sociable and nice to talk to.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Our unofficial mascot is the Sungod. We have a huge statue of it near the La Jolla Playhouse, which is on-campus. The myth is that if you walk backwards under its arch, then it will grant you good luck for the quarter. Also, during finals week, UCSD has an undie run, where students will run through the library and all over the place in their underwear. Our library, we call it the geisel because it is named after Theodore Geisel, or Dr. Seuss, was used as an influence for the snow fortress in the movie, Inception. We have a statue of Dr. Seuss by our library.
Bang for the buck The diversity here on campus is great. There are students with all kinds of backgrounds that you almost never find someone with a boring story.
What to do for fun Go to the beach! We are fortunate enough to have a beach 10 minutes from us. However, the beach that is right next to us is a nude beach. Most students go to La Jolla Shores beach or Pacific Beach. There are a bunch of intramural sports and clubs on-campus. You can go to the gym, and take fun classes at the RIMAC (the gym).
Food and Dining You get tired of the food. It tastes great for the first two weeks, then the food becomes somewhat repetitive. Luckily, there are a vast variety of good restaurants in the La Jolla area that students can go to simply using the UCSD shuttles and MTS San Diego busses.
Dorm Life It is a fantastic way of making new friends. Even though at this time we have an overcrowding issue because there are too many freshmen who agreed to go to UCSD, you are able to adjust to your living space. However, this is speaking from having good roommates and suite mates. If you have an issue with your living conditions, talk to your R.A. they will be able to accommodate for most of your needs. There is also always an on-campus police wandering around campus, so on-campus parties are a big no-no.
Academic Rigor Unlike high school teachers, professors do not have office hours every single day. Classes aren't everyday, so there is no one to remind you to do your homework. Make sure to study everything the professor presents in each lecture because, chances are, that material is on the test. Take advantage of office hours for clarification and study in groups because you don't want to ignore anything you don't understand.
Tips for prospective students Make sure to do well on your Advance Placement or IB tests. This is because the more credits you have coming into UCSD, the earlier your enrollment time is, which means you get priority in selecting the best professor for that class and will not have to suffer in the waitlisting category. Also, when selecting your classes, make sure to give yourself a well spread out schedule and also check the location of the class. You don't want to be that student who needs to leave about 5-10 minutes early from lecture to run across campus in order to make it on time to your next class.
In three sentences It is definitely a rigorous school with competitive students. The campus is huge, and the student population is humongous. Most of the people are really nice, but are pretty sheltered too.
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12/31/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun It is good to join clubs, join study sessions, and go to office hours.
Food and Dining There is good quality food service.
Academic Rigor UCSD has some healthy competition and has a generally academically interactive student body.
Tips for prospective students UCSD is a focused school with a rich academic environment, which is very inspirational.
In three sentences UCSD provides a wonderful academic sphere for educational growth. Classes are generally well-paced. There exists healthy competition as well as a plethora of resources and opportunities for success in interested fields.
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Lisa from San Diego, CA
01/04/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Very few incidents compared to other schools. I feel really safe here.
Greek Life I am a member of Greek Life and it does help you meet people and motivates you. It gives you a support system that is uncomparable to anything else.
Clubs and Activities there is a club for everything!
Great for these types of students Academic focused Science Majors
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God is this statue that people walk through for good luck. Also the Sun God festival is a music festival that people constantly talk about.
Bang for the buck UCSD is home to some amazing professors so take advantage of that.
What to do for fun Go to the beach! Even though I've grown up by the beach, its beauty is still amazing. Make friends and go on adventures! There are things to do especially in the city.
Food and Dining Some places are really good and some are pretty bad. Each college has it's own food hall. There are a lot of places to eat but not all of them accept dining dollars. Pines, Roots and Goodys are really good. Also the coffeeshop in Muir Woods is amazing! Cafe Vista is alright as is Cafe Ventanas. Theres a subway, panda expresss, jamba juice and some other places in price center.
Dorm Life Dorms are small like most schools but it's fun to get to know everyone in your hall or suite. Also you can get to class fast!
Academic Rigor The quarter system makes everything seem harder because you have less time to understand it. You have to keep up with reading and homework if you want to do well.
Tips for prospective students The quarter system takes some getting used to. It goes by really fast and you have no time to fall behind so study! Also, don't forget that you have so many resources.Don't be afraid to ask for help. Go to tutoring ,office hours, section and anything else that will benefit your learning.
In three sentences UCSD is an amazing school academically. There are so many opportunities if you just look for them. Plus we are located practically on the beaches of La Jolla!
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01/22/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety SOME THINGS HAVE HAPPENED, BUT NOTHING TOO SERIOUS AND THERE ARE ESCORTS WHO CAN WALK YOU HOME AT NIGHT
Greek Life SCARY STUFF WITH PLEDGING BUT GREAT WAY TO NETWORK IF YOU HAVE THAT KIND OF MONEY
Clubs and Activities MANY CULTURAL CLUBS AND PROFESSIONAL SOCIETIES
Great for these types of students WHO ARE ACTIVE AND LIKE THE OUTDOORS
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus SUNGOD FESTIVAL, UNDIE RUN
Bang for the buck LA JOLLA IS EXPENSIVE OVERALL
What to do for fun BEACH. PARTIES. EXPLORING DOWNTOWN. SHOPPING
Food and Dining NOT ALL THE DINING HALLS ARE CREATED EQUAL. HAVE TO WALK FAR FOR BETTER FOOD
Dorm Life WALLS ARE THIN. ROOMS COULD BE BIGGER
Academic Rigor REALLY HARD CLASSES. STUDY.
Tips for prospective students DONT BE AFRAID TO TRY NEW THINGS. EXPLORE THINGS AND MORE IMPORTANTLY, FIND OUT WHO YOU ARE
In three sentences RIGHT BY THE BEACH. WE ARE NOT SOCIALLY DEAD. WE KNOW HOW TO HAVE FUN AND WE ARE SPIRITED.
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Nora from Richmond, CA
01/29/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety UCSD truely considers the well-being of it's students first and foremost, with officers patrolling the campus 24/7. However, this does not mean the safety of the students is 100% guaranteed. Throughout my stay here of two quarters, there has been one stabbing, of who the culprit was never caught, several molestations, and a girl found within a ditch who later died in the hospital she was brought to. By no means is the security lacking, but UCSD can't keep tabs on every student within it's walls.
Great for these types of students UCSD is perfect for those who want a balance of social activity and a rigorous education that will fully prepare them to enter adulthood. UCSD is filled with ambitious students, who are as friendly as they are intelligent. If you want to live in the best of both worlds, UCSD is the place for you.
Bang for the buck As much as UCSD provides to it's student community, $30,000 is a high price for anyone. With a declining economy and student loans rising to unbelievable heights, this pricy tuition would discourage many from considering UCSD for their university. With this, I would have to advise those without the funds or scholarships to be able to afford the tuition stably consider cheaper options for college.
What to do for fun Situated near a beach, and the largest gym within the La Jolla area, there are many activities you can do at UCSD. There is a surplus of clubs and fraternities/sororities that are more than willing to have you join in their activities. The beach is only about a 10-20 minute walk from the campus, and completely available most of the days as La Jolla is constantly sunny; perfect weather for a swim. You can even join a surfing school near the campus and learn how to surf. The school even provides many events one can attend, such as plays, and the puppy walk where owners bring their dogs to the Giesel library to help the stress of final weeks. If you look for it, you can find almost anything at UCSD; you make college what it is.
Food and Dining Gifted with a cafeteria not more than a minute walk from the dorms, the food is very accommodating in UCSD. Judging based off the food in Cafe Ventanas, the school provides a variety of regional food that differs on the days of the week, and is of perfectly acceptable quality to most taste buds. However, if one were to eat there every say for a couple of weeks, you can easily get very tired of the food served. This is why UCSD provides many popular chains such as burger king, subway, and panda express within the college. There is also a farmers every Tuesday in which you can buy fresh produce and fresh food from the vendors there.
Dorm Life I've always heard of horror stories of college dorms and roommates, and I was pleasantly surprised that this was not the case in the Eleanor Roosevelt dorms within UCSD. The dorms are very clean, as there is a cleaning lady that visits every week--and they do their job spectacularly well. However, contrary to the belief that UCSD is socially dead, in my personal experience, every floor has a couple of people who are very socially outgoing. This results in night parties that most likely will cut into your sleep time.
Academic Rigor As I have mentioned, if you want to be intellectually challenged/stimulated, UCSD is the place for you. The professors are all wonderful people with a solid research or academic background, and all genuinely care for the student's education. Classes and tests are very fair in consideration of the academic prestige the school holds, and very manageable if you spend your time wisely.
Tips for prospective students If you love challenging yourself, and want a desirable environment with warm sunny days and the cold breeze of an ocean, UCSD is the perfect place for you. You can prosper easily in UCSD, just keep your priorities straight and make sure to study to keep up with the curves. While it may be hard to adjust to the college life at first, there are many staff within the school willing to aid you in your transition, so don't be afraid to ask for advice.
In three sentences As always, college courses are vigorous, and being a part of the University of California system, UC San Diego is even more so. However, my time here has also been filled with an open and kind community, all of which are supportive. If I had to make a say, UCSD is definitely at least an 8 out of 10 in my book.
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Alexandra from Alta Loma, CA
02/01/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students study study STUDY
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Before every midterm walk backwards under the Sun God statue for good luck
What to do for fun For fun you can walk 15 mins and be at the beach, go join a club and play some sports. Most movie theaters and a mall are just a bus ride away. There are also several places around campus to go play video games and be social.
Food and Dining The food here is alright, some dining halls are far better than others. The rice bowls can become a bit annoying when they are served almost every other day but the food is better than most fast food. One thing I will say though, is that it can be quite costly.
Dorm Life The freedom is amazing, but living with people you just met can be a challenge. There are several programs to help people get used to the college life, and an RA (resident assistant) to help with any problems. Overall the dorms are very clean and nice in comparison to others.
Academic Rigor Depending on the classes you take and the major you choose the classes will be more or less difficult. All classes are time consuming so make sure to not bite off more than you can chew. Expect over 4 hrs of homework every night.
Tips for prospective students Do you best to get involved, play sports, join clubs etc. Never be afraid to ask for help, better to swallow some pride and get help than fail a class. Try your best to earn scholarships because UC schools are incredibly expensive
In three sentences I consider UC San Diego as one of the most beautiful campuses here in California. The teachers are pretty mixed skill wise, as in many schools some are amazing and passionate, while others leave almost nothing positive to be said. The school overall is filled with many activities and ways to get involved, but as with most UC schools it is quite costly to attend.
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Thomas from Orange, CA
02/02/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun There are plenty of clubs and organizations to join. UCSD sends out weekly newsletters filled with events. The nearby La Jolla Playhouse gives big discounts to students who want to attend plays. There are museums, movie theaters, zoos, and beaches nearby, as well.
Food and Dining Cafeterias and food courts are easily accessible. It's also easy to be vegetarian or vegan, and there's a vegan restaurant called Roots.
Dorm Life Apply for housing as early as possible, or you may be assigned two or three roommates. Also, if you identify as queer or an ally, you should sign up for LGBT-interest housing.
Academic Rigor Major in a subject you love, or you may end up changing your mind partway through your education.
Tips for prospective students UCSD is currently divided into six sub-colleges, called Revelle, John Muir, Thurgood Marshall, Earl Warren, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Sixth. Research the differences between them, especially general education requirements, and put thought into which college you'd prefer to join before applying. Ultimately it's not the end of the world if you don't get your first choice, but having an informed first choice is better than picking one at random.
In three sentences UCSD was my first-choice school. It's really big, in an affluent area, and walking-distance from the Pacific Ocean. It's pretty new, as far as universities go, and and most people I meet are biology majors.
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02/03/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students People who do not really want to party, but are mostly focused on getting a good education.
What to do for fun Go to the beach. Have a bonfire with friends. Go hiking. Watch the sunset. Explore San Diego.
Food and Dining The food is average, maybe a little above average. It is definitely not as bad as I was expecting it to be; it's better than high school cafeteria food, that's for sure. There are is also a wide variety of choices from burritos to pizza to vegan meals.
Dorm Life I personally do not have any problems with my roommates or suite mates. My house advisors are the best. They are nice, fun, and easy to talk to. Sharing a bathroom is not as horrible as I expected it to be. I met best friends here. We all live on the same floor and hang out all the time.
Academic Rigor The classes are definitely more difficult than the high school AP classes I took. However, if you study hard and utilize all the resources available to you (i.e. office hours and review sessions), it should not be too hard to get a good grade.
Tips for prospective students Don't procrastinate. Manage your time wisely. Study hard. Check out the beaches. Use the free bus transportation to your advantage. Explore La Jolla and the surrounding San Diego area. Have fun and make new friends.
In three sentences The school may not be as school-spirited as other universities, but it makes it easier to concentrate on your studies and grades. You can meet some pretty amazing people here and make some really good friends. The classes can be challenging, but will ensure that you actually learn everything you need for your major and future career.
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Leia from Tustin, CA
02/25/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety With student officers, police officers and security guards around 24/7, I've never had to worry about my safety here. It's home.
Clubs and Activities There are hundreds of clubs and organizations just waiting for you to join! And it doesn't hurt that the beach is a 10 minute walk from campus.
Great for these types of students Laidback, chill, beach-loving kids
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God: an annual rave-like festival where underground artists take the stage. These artists often use the Sun God stage as their liftoff. (Macklemore and Kendrick have performed during the past two years, if that gives you an idea).
What to do for fun Join clubs and organizations that meet your future goals and also your personality! It's a great way to network and make friends who have similar goals as you.
Food and Dining Food and dining halls are pretty good around here. The system for spending money through the school is dining dollars, not swipes. You get to allocate the money and spend it where you want: whether it's food, drinks, snacks, or even household appliances. You name it, the markets have it.
Dorm Life Again, it's key that you live on campus your first year! It's an awesome way to get to know your fellow students and also participate in activities and join clubs.
Academic Rigor If you attend office hours and lecture on a regular basis, you should be fine in any class. College is about you putting in the work. Your grade will be a reflection of your effort.
Tips for prospective students Live on campus your first year! Not only is it an awesome way to meet people, but it really gives you a full college experience. Make sure to ask past students regarding what college (out of the six colleges) are the best fit for you and your intended major. Attend office hours, get to know your professors, and keep study groups to a maximum of three. Don't procrastinate, be responsible, have fun.
In three sentences UCSD is a very prestigious public university that offers many undergraduate research and internship opportunities. It has an extremely chill environment, exemplified by its foresty ambience and laidback students. It's not dog-eat-dog out here; it's about studying and learning as a community.
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02/25/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety There are people who will escort you back to your room or car if you do not feel safe at night.
Greek Life No row, alas.
Clubs and Activities Archery!
Great for these types of students Outgoing.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The Sports Deck -- there's archery, too! Also, the pumpkin and watermelon drops.
What to do for fun Sleep. Really.
Food and Dining Being in Muir, the food isn't terribad; nor is it too far away, either.
Dorm Life Make friends! Dorm life is what you make of it. There are always people willing to be friends, you simply have to reach out for them.
Academic Rigor The classes aren't easy, but the professors and teaching assistants do provide ample opportunity to catch up and learn if it is necessary; stay on top of your work and it won't be too difficult. (Hopefully.)
Tips for prospective students Enjoy speedwalking.
In three sentences Warm, welcoming student body with opportunity at your fingertips; all you have to do is reach for it. Beautiful campus, if not a bit large, and fun places to meet. You do have to leave your room, though.
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Min Ji from San Diego, CA
02/26/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun EXPLORE EXPLORE EXPLORE. Whenever you have time, take advantage of the fact that you live in a beautiful city, with wonderful weather and the fact that you live right by the beach!
Food and Dining Campus food is overpriced at some points, but it is very convenient. You kind of get tired of the food at the big cafeteria (Price Center), but they do a good job of providing you with fresh food every day.
Dorm Life Dorms are becoming more and more impacted as the years pass by, but the amount of living expenses on campus increases from time to time.
Academic Rigor You definitely need to earn it. Nothing is given to you. You got a lot of free time- use it to study!
Tips for prospective students Make sure to be prepared to walk a lot, to eat a lot of Mexican food, and to explore. Get to know the professors; many professors love it when students go into their office hours. You pay for class, so GO TO CLASS even if it's boring.
In three sentences UCSD provides many opportunities for students to engage, participate and interact with one another. It achieves its goal in maintaining its campus clean and available, not only for students but also for visitors and future incoming students. The environment around and inside UCSD campus is amazing- the convenience to the beach, the beautiful architecture of student halls, and the ever-developing technology make it very appealing to everyone.
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Jeremy from San Diego, CA
02/27/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Extremely safe neighborhood, and extremely safe campus.
Greek Life No fraternity houses, but there is greek life.
Clubs and Activities Hundreds and hundreds of clubs, health clinics, and voluntary research opportunities.
Great for these types of students Great for hard workers, those interested in research, medicine, law, and business.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Revelle college drops a watermelon each year from the top of their dorms. The students watch as it falls and splashes on the concrete, while the physics students are required to calculate how fast it took for the watermelon to fall.
Bang for the buck Big bang! You pay big bucks to go to a top notch university like UCSD.
What to do for fun La Jolla Shores beach and Blacks Beach is just down the hill from UCSD. Here you can boogie board, surf, snorkel, or just lay out in the sun. It's always sunny in San Diego so you wont have a problem going to a beach year round.
Food and Dining So far, UCSD has very good food. It ranges from Thai food to vegan food all the way to dining halls and various corporate fast food chains.
Dorm Life UCSD could use an upgrade on dorms, their transfer dorms are a bit newer but are placed at the far end of the school. There are many triples and doubles but rarely is there a single.
Academic Rigor Extremely difficult, not like community college. But this difficulty is not that bad if you study hard.
Tips for prospective students Study hard, the quarter system is extremely fast. (Only 10 Weeks!) Do not slack off and stay on top of what you do. Get to know your teachers for letters of recommendations and also try and get into a research lab here.
In three sentences UCSD is a large campus that is very beautiful. It is centralized in the affluent neighborhood of La Jolla and is known for it's many research opportunities, coining the term Research Powerhouse. UCSD is very diverse and has many educated professors.
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Lily from California
03/04/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun There are many events on campus at different performance spaces, as well as dances and the annual Sungod Festival.
Food and Dining Not going to lie, the food here is average at best.
Dorm Life LOVE IT. Living in ERC has made me more social than ever.
Academic Rigor UCSD students are competitive! It pushes you to do your best.
Tips for prospective students Join some clubs! Make sure you get involved and don't get sucked into staying in your room all day.
In three sentences UCSD has opened my eyes to so many aspects of being in a large university. I've learned to be independent, and being here have helps so much with that. I would choose UCSD again if I could go back and do it again.
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Izra Zachary from Santa Clarita, CA
03/05/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Very safe and quiet school and everybody is rather easy going. At night there are shuttles to take you around so you do not have to walk, and there are also student escorts so you don't have to walk all the way home by yourself.
Clubs and Activities Plenty of clubs and activities to join in throughout the year. You will see flyers for these things every day so it is hard to not participate every once in a while.
Great for these types of students Great for those who are not big on the party scene yet still like to have fun here and there.
What to do for fun San Diego has a lot of things for college students to do. For example, one could spend the day at one of the many beaches, take a nature hike, go to the various malls or go midnight laser tagging. There are also skating rinks, museums, parks and other place to visit to get away from campus for a bit. There are also plenty of activities on campus as well, often all one has to do is ask and they will hear about something to do.
Food and Dining Food at the dining halls is pretty good and there is always a decent selection. If a particular dining hall doesn't have food to your liking, it's only a short walk away to the next food stop for something else on the menu.
Dorm Life There are a variety of activities planned by each college of the school and one can usually find something to do each week. Whether it's a school dance, movie night, free food or just hanging with your fellow students, dorm life is a rather enjoyable time. UCSD is pretty good at matching you with roommates who will eventually become your best friends too.
Academic Rigor The professors at this school are incredibly knowledgable about their subjects and have high expectations of their students, presumably so that one day the students may fill the professor's shoes. It is up to the student to get the most of out their education and their grades, but with hard work and use of the available resources, it will pay great dividends in the long run.
Tips for prospective students Don't be afraid of the college experience; immerse yourself in your school and the environment. There are plenty of things to do besides studying all day, but at the same time do not forget the primary reason you are taking higher education!
In three sentences A beautiful campus in a great location and nice weather. The professors and faculty members are all very friendly and knowledgable about their fields and you will find no shortage of wisdom at this campus. A great place to be for the scholarly-minded students.
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Muir 1st year
03/06/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus UCSD first years compete in the unolympics to try and win the Golden Shoe. Each college preforms a dance routine and the best college wins. It's really fun to watch and each student gets a free shirt.
Bang for the buck Basketball games are the big thing at UCSD, since we don't have a football team. It's all free and there's free t-shirts, foam fingers, and Secret Cookie Service! (if you're lucky) Volleyball games are free and fun to watch.
What to do for fun The beach is a couple minutes away from school. Muir College is the closest to the beach and the bus can easily take you. There are concerts at The Loft or at Porters Pub. Muir College has Muirstock where there are bands and free goodies and its open to all of UCSD. ERC has Rock n' Roosevelt and it's also free and they just had Karmin!
Food and Dining The best dining hall in all of UCSD is apparently Pines in Muir College. I go to Pines because it's the closest one but there is Roots for the vegan and vegetarians. There's Foodworx where we can make pizzas, Goodys has the best burritos and bowls, and each college has it's own dining hall, so there are plenty of options. All the dining halls take dining dollars. Dining dollars are hard to explain but it's like real money that you pay your food with. Unlike other universities, dining dollars can be used at anytime.
Dorm Life Well Muir College has pretty decent dorms and the apartments are better (if you get Tamarack). I got really lucky my first year because I got a deluxe triple, which is huge compared to the other rooms. The lounge is a really good place to socialize with others and it's fun to get to know one another. If you're lucky, you and suit mates will have movie nights in the lounge.
Academic Rigor Some classes can be difficult but some aren't so bad. Chem 6A with Dr. Johnson may seem difficult but she gives you plenty of opportunities to pass the class. The first half of Math 10B isn't hard because it's mostly derivatives but the Calc Lab is there if students need help. The one thing that I highly recommend is reading the book because it does help with understanding any material not covered in class.
Tips for prospective students Get to know your suit mates, they'll become your friends in college. Go to class and the discussions because it will help on homework. Go to your TAs office hours because they will help clarify any problems on your homework.
In three sentences The weather is great and the beach is a good spot to get away. The professors care about their students and try to explain the best they can. Get to know the people you live with because you'll be living with them and they'll probably become your closest friends.
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Tina from Pasadena, CA
03/26/2014Reviewer is A past student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety I felt really safe when I attended this school. There are a lot of students and faculty walking around.
Greek Life There are a lot of sororities and fraternities, although there aren't any sorority/fraternity housing on campus or off campus.
Clubs and Activities There are so many clubs offered on this campus. You could join the Greek life, or you could just join professional clubs to network with others.
Great for these types of students Great for students who want to live near the beach and still be in a large school environment. This school provides a really great education and many opportunities for their students. There is also free tutoring at Oasis.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There are a lot of unique locations on campus. The campus has many of Dr. Seuss themed statues. The geisel library itself honors Dr. Seuss.
Bang for the buck All UC schools are cheaper than privates because it is a public school. It is even cheaper if you are a California resident.
What to do for fun La Jolla Beach UTC Gas Lamp District Seaworld Mission Bay Old Town San Diego Balboa Park Del Mar Coronado Island
Food and Dining There are so many choices in the PC area.
Dorm Life Freshman year offers a lot of suite options with or without roommates. This allows you to choose how many roommates you want, or you could pay a few hundred more to have your own single in a suite of many people.
Academic Rigor Most of the classes are based on a curve, so you must do better than most of your peers to get an A in your classes.
Tips for prospective students You must do well in high school by getting good grades and a good SAT or ACT score. If you do not have a good standardized test score, then you may get in if you demonstrated a lot of leadership qualities.
In three sentences University of California, San Diego is a great university, especially if you are a science or engineering major. They have so many research opportunities that will help you get into graduate school and very accomplished professors. It is located close to La Jolla beach and there is a great University Town Cenber nearby.
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Alex from Corona, CA
04/01/2014Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Food and Dining The meal plans there do not sound appealing or efficient. The restaurants in the center if campus were nice.
Dorm Life All the dorms were interesting and had their quirks about them. The students are certainly bonded together because they were put in there based in their interests.
Academic Rigor Hard core classes here. I toured the campus and had an interview with an admissions officer from the Jacobs School of Engineering and viewed the class syllabus. God be with those in engineering.
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Claire from Escondido, CA
04/06/2014Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Great for these types of students People who are INDEPENDENT (there's a biggie), hard-working and willing to seek out what they need. You are one of thousands. Stand-out.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus SUN GOD. Once a year, there is a Sun God festival in which all students have fun and eat delicious food. It generally comes at the end of the school year and is a chance for everyone to take a break from studying. There's also supposedly wacky events that happen throughout the festival, but I haven't been there during one, so I can't give details. However, it sounded fantastic to me.
What to do for fun Beach. San Diego. Need I say more?
Food and Dining I checked out the dining hall at Roosevelt College (my home college) and it was quite lovely. The breakfast menu (I went in the morning) included waffles, bacon, sausage, eggs and breakfast burritos! I don't know about other dining halls, but in the general common areas, it seemed pretty good as well.
Academic Rigor Obviously, UCSD is well known for being a hard school. I've often heard from people that most of your time is spent studying for the next test. That being said, once you have completed your education, you'll be a cut above other students applying to grad school, especially if you maintained good grades.
Tips for prospective students Research research research. Visit the campus. See if you like it and if it fits your personal needs. UCSD is a great campus, but it's not right for everyone. Look into research as soon as possible and check-out clubs that you might be interested in. You can't just hide in your dorm and study for four years. Look at the environment. Talk to some students and professors (if you visit) and see what they say.
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Pauline from South Pasadena, CA
04/08/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun UCSD is very close to multiple beaches and to malls. Transportation is free by bus with the bus sticker. There is also karaoke and restaurants close to the campus.
Food and Dining Dining hall food is good but can be pricey. The dining plan may not be adequate for those who like to eat large meals every day.
Dorm Life Dorms allow students to have the ease of closeness to classes. It however may be noisy due to other students in neighboring areas who like to socialize. Dorm life also helps enlarge social circles because it gives proximity to friends. It also can be hard to maintain friendships because of the large campus and thus large sprinkling of dorms.
Academic Rigor The academics are very hard. The classes are fast-paced because of the structure of a quarter system. Professors often expect students to participate in class and to know how to solve problems; this is seen is exams in which professors ask questions that require not only knowledge of content but also appliance of content.
Tips for prospective students The classes here are very fast-paced. Incoming students should take three to four classes their first quarter.
In three sentences This school has many classes to choose from. Even though there are many general requirements for each individual college within the larger university, there is fluidity to which classes can fulfill these requirements. It is also very easy to change majors, talk to counselors and interact with professors.
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Spencer from Huber Heights, OH
04/10/2014Reviewer is A past student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety I lost my bicycle one time, and campus security found it within 1 week.
Clubs and Activities Array of different clubs to choose from: language clubs to science clubs
Great for these types of students Science majors, environmental majors, engineers
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There is a hippie across the Medical school library, near the science library by York Hall. Nice place to relax and get some change of scenery.
Bang for the buck I paid tuition when it was quite affordable I'm not sure what the price is now, but I was certainly pleased with the prices then.
What to do for fun Join student assiociations, play intramural sports, go to the beach. Enjoy San Diego city.
Food and Dining Food is decent and affordable. Clean caferterias and no complaint
Dorm Life I didn't dorm here, but my friends did, and they loved it, especially near international center, where it is easy to meet others and mingle. Facilities are near new and quite clean.
Academic Rigor This university is densely populated with science majors and is very competitive
Tips for prospective students Take as many AP courses possible to prepare for UC level. Whild in attendance, make sure to take advantage of TA sessions, office hours, and the forums on blackboard, they are helpful!
In three sentences Superb facilities for research and studies. Beautiful campus with a great environment. Near to the beach.
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Brian from San Fernando, CA
04/24/2014Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun sports. Hang out with friends.
Food and Dining Newly renovated dining plaza in Revelle College. Opens 2014 fall quarter.
Dorm Life Very nice. Newl renovated in Revelle College (2014). Could be roomier though.
Academic Rigor One of the best in the nation.
Tips for prospective students Dont be afraid of the college experience.
In three sentences Great school both academically and socially. Won me over when they demonstrated the excellence of Revelle college. Very beautiful to look at as well.
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04/25/2014Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Sun God is an annual festival that occurs in the spring quarter. It's extremely popular and features a fair, art performances, and musical performances.
Bang for the buck UCSD's tuition is certainly worth the experience of attending such an excellent university! Besides, it's certainly much cheaper than many of the nation's top private universities.
Food and Dining Each college has its own dining hall, but students are allowed to eat anywhere they wish. The food quality varies depending on the location. There are also food courts and each college has a small marketplace.
Dorm Life I have not personally visited the dorms. On-campus housing is guaranteed for the first two years. Each college has its own housing system, but every college has single, double, and triple rooms. Depending on the time people apply for housing, they may be placed in a location that is not their first choice due to limited space.
Academic Rigor As stated previously, UCSD is consistently ranked as one of the nation's top 25 research universities. The school includes six separate undergraduate colleges that all have slightly different philosophies and general ed requirements.
In three sentences UCSD is an excellent school, renowned as one of the nation's top research universities. It's located in balmy Southern California, in the town of La Jolla.
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Rebeccah from Ventura, CA
04/28/2014Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Greek Life There is a large greek population, but unless it is Triton Day, because housing is off campus, they are rarely seen unless you seek them out. It is not pressuring if you are not a part of it.
Clubs and Activities Tons of options for clubs and activities, both academic and extracurricular.
Great for these types of students This school would be perfect for anybody who wants a laidback feel on campus with a very serious academic program. A student would need to be strong enough not to be influenced by the presence of parties on campus and in the area in order to succeed.
Bang for the buck For in state students, it is totally worth the price of the school. If you are in a situation where you are economically disadvantaged plenty of aid is available.
What to do for fun Many frats and sororities if you are interested in them. Plenty of parties on the weekends, and even the weekdays. Because of the size of the school, there are all types of clubs for almost every interest.
Food and Dining There are many options for on campus dining, including fast food restaurants and stop shops like Jamba Juice in addition to the cafeterias, so you never run out of options.
Dorm Life Dorms are often overcrowded and small at UC San Diego, but because this is a large state university, this is expected. Be sure to apply for housing as soon as you can so you are housed with those in the same college, otherwise you may end up being overflowed into other dorms.
Academic Rigor I am only aware of the strength the school has in the sciences, and it is a very difficult, yet rewarding experience.
Tips for prospective students Only go to this school if you are into the whole laidback beachy feel.
In three sentences San Diego is a beautiful place to go to college. This college supports a wide range of interests and has many major options as well as internships, clubs, and other extracurriculars. It also has a great science program.
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Elmer from Los Angeles, CA
05/11/2014Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments What to do for fun 10 mins. away from the beach, what's also great about it is that there is a shuttle that will take you there.
Food and Dining So many places right in San Diego if you just feel like going out with friends.
Dorm Life The dorms in size are ok, a previous student told me how the triples now were doubles then.
Academic Rigor Extremely academically tough from what i have heard. I am a student who will attend in the fall.
Tips for prospective students Simply choose your friends wisely. And don't over do on the fun.
In three sentences Really amazing views of the beach, really can't wait to go there to take pictures of the scenery!
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Edgardo from Mira Loma, CA
05/17/2014Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Food and Dining The Dine Dollars idea seems helpful for the less financially-endowed at the campus
Dorm Life The 6 colleges idea seems innovative, honestly. Personally, I have no idea which one I'd want to be in, but it looks like the student body is nice, so....dorm life must also be pretty nice
Academic Rigor I've heard that the course work for most of their classes is pretty rigorous, so that seems challenging, but exciting
Tips for prospective students I don't know. I'm a prospective student myself, so......keep your GPA up above a 3.8 if you want a good chance of being accepted.
In three sentences From what I've seen on their website and read in their brochures, it seems like the perfect school for what I want to major in, Biomedical Engineering. On U.S. World News Report (2015), it ranked #7 in the whole nation in Biomedical Engineering programs, so I took interest. Another plus would be the fact that it's like ~80 miles from where I currently live.
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Jean from AZ
05/30/2014Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.
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Categories Comments Food and Dining I have been to the San Diego area before and have never had any complaints. I'm not sure about the food and dining for college students but I'm assuming that it's okay (feel free to correct me if I'm wrong).
Dorm Life If you like sunny days and beaches then this is probably the right place to live.
Academic Rigor I have done a lot of research on this college and have heard from many about the rigorous academic courses they offer at UCSD.
In three sentences This college is a perfect fit for me. I'm hoping to make a visit soon as I've visited San Diego and absolutely loved it. The academics are exactly what I need and I look forward to applying here soon.
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Yo-Jane from Jackson, MO
06/06/2014Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments In three sentences Love the campus and the city! Great art program. Definitely hoping to get into this university.
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Lauren from Oceanside, CA
06/08/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Greek Life Some of the Greeks seem stuck up and walk around like they're better than everyone else. Those not involved in Greek life could care less about their presence. Due to the few stuck up individuals, I would say Greeks typically have a bad reputation.
Great for these types of students Those who enjoy peace and quiet would love UCSD. However, if you're looking for trouble... there are places to find it.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Undie run every Wednesday night of finals week though Geisel library
Bang for the buck The school is pricey, but with scholarships and financial aid most people do not have too much of a problem.
What to do for fun UCSD has numerous concerts and events to take advantage of throughout the year. Be sure to get involved and not miss out on all the free events! The beach is also less than a 15 minute walk away.
Food and Dining The food is hit or miss depending on your college. The dining halls often have the same food everyday, but there are a lot of places to eat on campus.
Dorm Life The dorms are really cramped here due to over-enrollment. I have heard the temporary housing is a nightmare.The on-campus apartments are a lot nicer, especially the newer buildings are like modern apartments.
Academic Rigor Be prepared to work hard!
Tips for prospective students Do not rely on the curve. Prepare for every test like you are have done everything you need to get 100% correct. The students here are very smart, and you will need to work hard to stay high above the curve.
In three sentences UCSD is a challenging school for most people. Those individuals who come from competitive high schools are better off than everyone else. Be prepared to work hard to catch up to these individuals as well as some of the international students.
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Audrey from Lake Elsinore, CA
06/16/2014Reviewer is A past student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Campus safety is good but due to the large size of the campus, you may be alone from time to time. Also, it is a public campus, so the public is allowed to wander and can be disruptive at times.
Clubs and Activities Hundreds of various clubs and activities. If you can't find one that fits you, create your own.
Great for these types of students Academic oriented and involved students.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus SUNGOD - a UCSD tradition.
Bang for the buck This is a top ranked school providing a top ranked education. Make the best of your academic experience here.
What to do for fun Get involved in the multitude of organizations or create your own organization, and get out and see San Diego in your free time. Beautiful hiking/biking/beach areas within walking distance of the campus.
Food and Dining Lots of options, but lacks a variety of healthy options at a reasonable price.
Dorm Life University is made up of six colleges which each have their own dorm communities.
Academic Rigor This is a high ranked university with high expectations.
Tips for prospective students Get involved early in the available activities on campus.
In three sentences Great campus with lots of opportunities for involvement. Faculty possess high expectations of students yet also provide accessibility for questions. Large campus but a small community atmosphere.
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Kristen from Fountain Valley, CA
06/17/2014Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Clubs and Activities When I went, it was in the middle of the year, and clubs were still recruiting/having activities down Library Walk! There were tons of bake sales and fundraisers going on, which made me really love the environment because it is close to what I'm used to back in my high school.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There's a funny thing on campus called the talking trees, located really quite close to what I like to call the 'Spaceship Library,' aka Geisel Library. Our tour guide was telling us that the trees actually emits songs via built in speakers.
What to do for fun Just walk around campus! There's tons of interesting little niches and spots to explore...or walk down Library Walk! It's always filled with activity.
Food and Dining The food is great here! I love that there are so many different options to choose from on any part of campus. I also find it great that it is located very closely to other amenities - namely Sprinkles, which I can't live without.
Dorm Life Since I don't currently attend UCSD, I can't comment on the dorm life.
Academic Rigor Since I don't study here, I can't really comment on the academic rigor. I will say, however, that they do have an impressive library.
In three sentences I recently took a field trip with my school's CSF here. It was absolutely amazing. I'm so glad I was able to get the opportunity to tour this school because I have already fallen in love with it. The students and the environment here never fail to be welcoming and friendly.
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Elijah from Escondido, CA
06/20/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety I feel safe on campus, we have trucks and security carts that drive around, even late at night, however, walking around campus in the more deserted parts always feels creepy and for that reason I wish that they patrolled more. We do have a police station on campus, and it does make me feel secure knowing that an officer can be on site in less than a few minutes.
Greek Life UCSD actually has no fraternity or sorority row, so greek housing is normally off campus. This doesn't seem to hinder them, however, as they have many activities both for their members and for whoever wants to join. They are also always on Library walk so information about Greek life is readily available. We also have a strict no-hazing policy on our frats so supposedly joining is easy and hassle free, other than the payments.
Clubs and Activities UCSD offers hundreds of different clubs and activities and it's not too hard to get involved. Every day on Library Walk, clubs are out there promoting their cause and handing out fliers to get people involved. A lot of them are passionate about what they do, so don't be surprised if random people stop you to talk about saving the rainforest. Resident Advisors are constantly planning free events, such as talent shows, for specific resident halls and apartments.
Great for these types of students If you like working hard, then UCSD is the place for you. The school definitely has a competitive atmosphere and serious students who care a lot about grades. We have great research opportunities for undergrads, so students with serious thought towards research should consider this school. With regards to the social atmosphere, however, if you are a social individual who likes making lots of friends and getting to know some of the most friendly kids in California, the go to UCLA.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus One tradition that students have is walking under a statue of a Sun God once during their time at UCSD, and it's supposed to bring them good grades to whatever class they are thinking of at the time. We also used to have a graffiti hall, where students would graffiti the walls of this hallway freely, but alas, it was shut down and replaced with the less cool, school regulated graffiti hill. Every year we also have SunGod music festival and that gets crazy.
Bang for the buck The school is definitely cheaper than private schools and offers a good education for the price. There are some services on campus, such as parking, that are on the pricey side, but overall a good school for what you have to pay. Textbooks are always expensive, but there are many ways to get them cheap, such as borrowing or buying used. Out of state students, however, do pay through the nose and would disagree with what I said earlier.
What to do for fun Being so close to the beach, UCSD has a lot of bonfires, beach events, and the like to do in time off. We also have a recreational gym to play most mainstream sports and even sports you didn't know existed. If you don't like having fun, then you could follow the rest of the campus's lead and study on Friday nights. There are rarely shortages of activities though; from clubs to RA's planning events, there's almost always something to do if you really want to do something.
Food and Dining The food is really good at UCSD if you like eating the same food over and over again and paying exorbitant amounts of money for it. Jokes aside, the variety is good if you're willing to travel around campus to the other dining halls. We have 5 college dining halls where you can spend campus dining dollars and 1 food truck, which are all conveniently located next to each colleges resident halls and apartments. We are also known as the most vegetarian friendly campus in California, so if your vegan diet factors into your college decision that much, then look no further.
Dorm Life UCSD attempts to accommodate the overflow of students that have been admitted by turning single rooms into rooms for two, and rooms for two into rooms for three. One might call these living arrangements cramped to be polite, or impractical to save face, I call them something else entirely. However, the fact of the matter is that studying or doing anything but sleeping and changing in your room is near impossible. If you are lucky enough to get a room that accommodates as many people as it was built for, then it is actually reasonably spacious.
Academic Rigor Classes require moderate devotion to study in order to get decent grades. Requirements for graduation for specific majors are reasonable unless a student is an engineer, pre-med, or a Revelle student, in which case a student has years of struggle ahead. Kidding aside, these specific majors have either rigorous requirements or difficult classes to take, while some majors just aren't as academically challenging. It's really up to you.
Tips for prospective students Lower division classes are rigorous and the quality of the lectures are poor. Success, at least for the first year, depends mostly on the effort of the student to go the extra mile to get help from outside lecture hours, along with hours of studying. Courses are challenging and to have good grades at UCSD, a student must be prepared to work for long periods of time to master the material through studying. My advice? Be a shut-in and devote your being to the entity that is schoolwork, you'll need it for the first few quarters.
In three sentences Challenging lower division classes that require hard work to pass. Aesthetically pleasing for the most part, however the atmosphere occasionally feels alien and unfriendly. Friendly staff that is willing to help students as long as effort is put in.
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07/04/2014Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.
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Categories Comments Food and Dining On the tour they told us about the various meal plans and there are plenty of places to eat both on and off campus.
Dorm Life They told us that most undergrads live on campus in The Village.
Academic Rigor I have yet to attend this school so I do not know. You do, however, get to pick your GE's based on what college you're in.
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April from San Diego, CA
07/07/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety UCSD has an excellent alert system via email or texts to notify students of the advent of crimes. The campus police are probably comparable to many other campuses, and, in general, student safety is a high priority.
Clubs and Activities As stated earlier, UCSD campus life leaves a lot to be desired. It is located in La Jolla, California, a bedroom community for the rich and ultra conservative. Back in the day, when the school was being designed, these stalwart citizens complained about the possibility of having the same kind of organized student protests that occurred at Berkeley. The university's solution was to design a purposefully alienating campus that would discourage central student gatherings. The result is that students are sent all over the campus for their various classes, seldom seeing each other in any one location, and not having a great deal of opportunities for a collective social life. This is a pity, as campus life plays an important role in any college experience. I attended two other colleges before this, as I traveled with my husband, and both were a thousand times better when it came to activities and campus life. That being said, there are a wide variety of clubs in which to participate.
Great for these types of students The campus is great for students whose emphasis is on obtaining a reasonably priced, but excellent education at the expense of a highly developed social life. I live locally, and because of familial obligations, attended UCSD, and am grateful for the high quality education. I do miss a more active campus social experience, however.
Bang for the buck UCSD offers an excellent education for the price, but is hiking student fees to pay for higher ranking sports programs. Since the mandate is to educate the youth of California for a reasonable price, I find this pursuit of prestige at the cost of their student body distasteful. UCSD literally spent millions researching the pros for this program, and less than $50,000 researching the negative impacts on its financially disadvantaged students. Of course, they claimed that students would not be negatively impacted, and that financial aid would remain the same, but a close look shows that more financial aid will now be funneled to athletes who perform excellent athletics,and less will go to needy students who do a good job with their academics. In addition, despite all assurances to the contrary, the UC Regents recently voted for a 32% fee increasein the near future (aprox. 2-3 yrs.) I personally know two students who are going to be priced out of the college by this decision, students who have a right, by mandate, not to be priced out in favor of a athletes who can promote a flashy football team.
Food and Dining The campus does offer a variety of dining opportunities, but is sadly lacking in alternatives for vegetarians, with the exception of a pub that does offer a truly terrible eggplant burger, a Panda Express that does offer a vegetarian eggplant dish, and a curry place where you can obtain vegetarian dishes. A salad bar would go a long way, and is a logical addition for a young, and often health conscious student population. There are your normal junk food places like Burger King and a Pizza place, one pretty decent kiosk Greek food place, and a really overpriced juice bar. The convenience stores overcharge, as convenience stores are wont to do, but since boarding students are a semi-captive market, I find this offensive. The school rents the spaces to the vendors, and could demand that students not be ripped off, but it does not.
Academic Rigor As I have stated, the academics are top notch, and the professors are, as a rule, excellent and engaged. Even the vast majority of the TA's have proven to be outstanding in my experience. However, keep in mind that lower level classes are very large, and most of the teaching will be done by TA's. As an alternative, you might consider going to a community college where all lower level courses are taught by full professors. Of course, the added bonus there is that you save a ton of money as well.
Tips for prospective students The school is excellent on academics, but poor on campus life, as UCSD was designed to be slightly alienating in order to discourage the kind of organized student protests that occurred at Berkeley. This is a shame, as student social life is an important part of any college experience. Driving on campus can be extremely slow and frustrating since they went mad and added enough stoplights to choke a horse. The old stop signs worked just fine, but evidently the administration, which is supposedly always strapped for cash, felt this a better use of their funds than putting the money into academics. However, mass transit is excellent until 10:30 PM. Other pluses include the location, as the college is near the beach, and located on a lovely campus.
In three sentences Great on Academics, mediocre on campus life, and truly terrible for students with disabilities. Parking for the handicapped is sparse, the transportation programs often make you late to class, and the Office for Students with Disabilities, while mainly staffed with great people, has a lady by the name of April Garrison who is evidently fond of making students obtain thousands of out of pocket dollars of extra testing despite the fact that they have doctors who state that they are in need of assistance. When I told her I did not have that kind of money, she callously suggested that I add to my already crippling student debt and borrow it. Easy for her to say.
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Rachel from San Diego, CA
07/10/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety UCSD has 24-hour campus security and CSOs (Community Service Officers) who are trained and hired to walk you to your destination if you ever feel threatened or unsafe at any time on campus. There are also tall, blue poles around campus that have an emergency help button that will call campus police if you feel you ever need help. This comes in handy, especially at night!
Greek Life Although I am not personally affiliated with a Greek fraternity or sorority, many of my friends are. They say it is a great opportunity to get involved on campus and find a community that accepts you like family! There are also professional and cultural fraternities and sororities that have different focuses but still cater to what you are looking for.
Clubs and Activities UCSD has over 500 clubs and organizations ranging from intramural sports teams to religious fellowships to professional clubs. If you cannot find a club that you like or would like to start your own, you can always do so by getting a few friends together and visiting onestop.ucsd.edu!
Great for these types of students UCSD is a well-balanced university in that the majority of students heavily emphasize academics while simultaneously leaving room for fun and activities. So, if you are the type of student who puts work before play, UCSD is a great school for you!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus One of the most famous traditions is the Sun God Music Festival held every year in May where UCSD invites bands and artists to perform, and it is free for all UCSD students. Furthermore, the week before Finals Week is a tradition known as the Undie Run, where students run around campus in their underwear as a way to vent their stress. Also, the Stuart Art Collection is scattered throughout campus, so it's always neat to see randomly placed art (i.e. the Warren bear, the big red chair in Revelle, etc.).
Bang for the buck This school is definitely a great investment! The research and internship opportunities at the various labs, the UCSD Medical School, the Preuss school or even the neighboring hospitals are priceless. It is a great place for networking and buffering your resume.
What to do for fun San Diego is known for it's beautiful beaches! With that said, there are a lot of water and outdoor activities such as surfing, stand up paddle boarding, skim boarding, swimming, beach volleyball, etc. UCSD has two gyms and weight rooms with basketball courts and tennis courts. There's also a small rock climbing center located in Warren College that has free rock climbing every first week of the quarter. Lastly, San Diego is packed with fun places to explore such as Old Town, Sea World, Mission Bay, Balboa Park, Coronado Island, and more!
Food and Dining Dorm food can get tiring after eating it for a whole year, however, thankfully UCSD has 9 different dining places that you can use your dining dollars/meal plan. The variety is especially nice if you are not in the mood for what is at your local dining hall because you can walk 5 minutes to the next one. The food overall is average, however, better at some places than others. In addition to the 9 dining halls, there are 6 markets for each college as well as Price Center (a food court in the middle of campus). Lastly, there are local food eateries around La Jolla that are just a bus ride away!
Dorm Life Although I am a San Diego local, I dormed my first year and it was an amazing experience. UCSD is currently experiencing a shortage of housing with the influx of newly admitted students and thus there will be more people than originally built for living in a room or suite. However, they are also trying their best to accommodate all the students and to ensure that you will be comfortable. Furthermore, dorm life is what you make of it. For example, you will probably get more out of your experience by attending your RA's (Residential Adviser) events or other free events held around campus. I personally did not experience any problems with my roommates or suitemates, but I understand that this could be different for everyone.
Academic Rigor Yes, UCSD is academically rigorous, like many prestigious universities. However, this past year, I have realized how the class curve can really save your grade (or even enhance it if you're above average). Also, a tip of advice, make sure you schedule classes according to professor (find their ratings at UCSD's official rating website @ cape.ucsd.edu, or ratemyprofessor.com), NOT time of the class. It is always better to have a good professor to get the grade rather than that extra bit of sleep or convenience.
Tips for prospective students Despite UCSD being known for its phenomenal biology and engineer departments, it does have really great economics and theater majors as well as many more that are often overlooked. Thus said, if you are not a science or engineering major, UCSD is still a great school! Also, be prepared to walk a lot because the campus is quite wide-spread (this is part of its unique history and the 6 college system). However, my solution is to get a good bike (not a cruiser since it's only 1 gear) or learn how to scooter or long board.
In three sentences If you're like me and many other UCSD students, you're looking at or attending UCSD because you either 1) did not get into UCLA, UC Berkeley, or your top choice, and/or 2) it is close to the beach. However, on behalf of my peers, I can attest that UCSD is one of the most underrated universities in California. After just finishing my first year here at UCSD, I would never regret choosing UCSD!
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Jae Hyun from Torrance, CA
07/24/2014Reviewer is A current student here.
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Categories Comments Campus Safety Absolutely safe, and the RSO services are great.
Great for these types of students Adventurous. Loves a new change of scenery. Fun-loving. Great for those who party all night and on weekends but rigorously studies on weekdays.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus There is a Big Red Chair, Sun God statue, and many more unusual traditions and locations on campus that you might have to find out on your own if you're curious.
Bang for the buck Love it.
What to do for fun The beach is right there, so surfing, hanging out at the beach, or even going for a hike is popular and very fun. The campus is enormous and has a lot of recreational facilities so you'll never find yourself bored at UCSD. Always an adventure.
Food and Dining Dorm food is dorm food, but at the University of California San Diego, there are six different colleges m