Interesting dialogue thus far. As a first year at UCSD and going through first couple of months of classes and tests, I'll briefly speak of my experience thus far. I remember when I was in your situation last year, albeit a little different, choosing between UC Davis and UCSD. At first, I was leaning towards Davis, because I thought I would fit in better there. However, being away from CA for college and work (in the South) made me appreciate what CA has to offer; plus my family is here in LA.
Initially I did not like UCSD as much as I expected, mostly because of my own issues. Then I led an interview tour and complained somewhat to those poor applicants. Quel mistake on the admission committee. Some time after, however, I remember clearly right after Winter Break, as I was driving from LA down for the new quarter on I-5. The road curved as pacific ocean was in full view and I thought to myself, why am I unhappy, studying medicine in a resort setting (as my classmate/roommate called it)? I made several adjustments and I am beginning to appreciate the opportunities I have here.
The rumors that I heard while interviewing here was not helpful. However, I have to say that most pressure that I face, I put it upon myself. Each class has different characteristics and I am fortunate to say that our class is known as the social class. Yes, there is come competition but we help each other along the way. Whenever someone made study sheet for a midterm or final, it is posted right on the student forum for all to see. My classmates are the biggest strength of the school and almost all of them will become compassionate and capable physicians.
In terms of the long hours of lectures, you can choose not to go, as most of us realized that there is more time to study and to have a time if you skip some lectures. Personally I do learn in lectures so I try to go to useful lectures. Otherwise I'd rather hit the cafe shop in Hillcrest for a few hours and take the rest of the day off. The sun and beaches in SD are just too inviting too sit in classes all day.
I took the free clinics as electives last quarter and thoroughly enjoyed it. I did not realize the uniqueness when I first came here, but seeing that what we are learning in classes do show up in the real world, that people are taking the beta blockers and ACE inhibitors put the humane side to rigorous class work. Don't worry, no matter where you go, there are always more information to master than you can possibly do (for most people). But for me, having the context to go through the wringer makes it worth it. And I plan to continue with the free clinic next quarter and do my independent project in the free clinic. I know for sure that after doing a thesis in research to graduate with distinction in my major that I would not enjoy the bench work myself. I prefer the clinical part and if I do pursue an MPH, which is a strong possibility, then ISP is not required.
As I also interviewed at UCI, and my impression is that it is a solid school, with opportunities as well. I just felt that UCSD would give me the training that I need. I have classmates who turned down UCSF and UCLA to come here as well, so it all comes down to what you feel you will be most happy and give you the most in educational opportunities. All in all, I am happy here and took another group of applicants last week to the Baker clinic. Those applicants were very impressed with what we do, as I am too. I invite those who are accepted to come to the revisit weekend and those who are waitlisted good luck; hang in there as I myself was a swimmer in the A-pool last year too. Hit me up with any more questions/thoughts/opinions. It's our Spring Break this week. Take care y'all.
Z.
ps. And I will try to get the matchlist for all curious souls out there. peace.
