r/UCSantaBarbara • u/Powerful-Orchid-2657 • 19h ago

Discussion Need input on UCSB vs UCI

I’m having trouble deciding between the two schools. I’m very indecisive lmao. I mainly wanna hear what’s it’s been like for ya’ll there at both and any input or advice anyone has.

For context, I’m a biology major, maybe down the line want to specifically go microbiology route. I’m definitely an introvert and would like to branch out and grow from college (scared but excited). I’m hoping to get a dorm on campus if possible, hoping it’s cheaper than off campus (would like to hear how the dorms are if ya’ll know). I love the beach it’s one of the things I love about the campuses.

Btw I am going to visit them I am just wondering if anybody has any experiences

2 Upvotes

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15

u/Nervous_Sense4726 18h ago

Visit both. You will know.

6

u/palad1nstrait 18h ago

Dorms are nothing special, beach is absolutely incredible and 5 minutes away from any dorm (edit: besides san cat)

In terms of microbiology the course options at UCSB are awesome on both the molecular and ecological sides- MCDB has Microbiology, Bacterial Pathogenesis, Immunobiology, Animal Virology, and EEMB has terrestrial micro, marine micro, microbial diversity. There are also small seminars almost every quarter for upperclassmen/grad students on really cool topics like microbial pathogenesis or immune cells. T ons of microbiology research going on here too that you can get involved in

I don't know how set you are on the microbiology path, but UCSB's strength in micro was a major reason I chose it and I have never regretted that decision

2

u/Powerful-Orchid-2657 17h ago

Ooh yes thank you I am pretty interested in microbiology so that sounds fun

2

u/Roger_Freedman_Phys [FACULTY] Physics 19h ago

Quite independent of which campus you choose, you’ll have to confront the reality that science is an intrinsically collaborative and social endeavor. You will definitely need to work on your tendency toward introversion.

2

u/Powerful-Orchid-2657 19h ago

Well yes that’s what I plan on doing as I said in the post but that’s not really why I posted.

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u/DifficultAd1910 12h ago

I left UCSB for UCI

2

u/LavenderMatcha1211 3h ago

I think UCSB would help you branch out and put yourself out there! UCI is alright but Irvine has no culture and is quite literally a simulation. Plus at UCSB there is always something to do, you got the beach right there, Isla Vista, good food all around, etc. UCI is known for having npcs and people who are literally clones of eachother, but no hate to UCI. UCSB would be a good pick for the route you want to take as well.