UC Davis Computer Science Engineering: Pros and Cons?

Hi, I'm a high school junior interested in studying Computer Science Engineering at UC Davis. Can some current students or alumni share the pros and cons they've experienced while pursuing this major? How does the program compare to other schools in California?

Pros:

1. Strong curriculum: UC Davis offers a comprehensive Computer Science Engineering (CSE) program with a diverse range of courses. The program includes core computer science courses alongside advanced subjects like artificial intelligence, computer vision, and machine learning.

2. Faculty expertise: The faculty at UC Davis are experienced professionals with strong research backgrounds and academic credentials. This can provide students with networking opportunities as well as research and mentorship possibilities.

3. Research opportunities: UC Davis is a research-oriented university with numerous research facilities like the Center for Integrated Computing and STEM Education (C-STEM), which offers undergraduate students the opportunity to engage in research projects, internships, and more.

4. Collaborative environment: Many students find the environment at UC Davis to be supportive and collaborative, allowing them to form study groups, work on projects together, and learn from each other. This can lead to skill development and a better understanding of the subject matter.

Cons:

1. Comparatively less reputation: While UC Davis' CSE program is strong, it might not have the same national reputation or prestige as other top-tier California schools, such as UC Berkeley or Stanford. This is not necessarily a reflection of the quality of education, but something to consider when comparing universities.

2. Large class sizes: As a large public university, UC Davis can have large class sizes, particularly for introductory and general education courses. This sometimes makes it difficult to have individualized attention from professors or engage in interactive learning experiences.

3. Limited access to resources: With a large student population pursuing computer science and engineering, there can be competition for resources such as lab time, equipment, and internship opportunities.

4. Location: Although Davis has a friendly college-town atmosphere, it might not be ideal for students seeking a bustling city life or direct access to the tech industry. While the proximity to Sacramento and San Francisco presents opportunities for internships and job prospects, living on campus may not provide the same exposure to industry events as other schools in more urban settings.

Overall, UC Davis has a strong Computer Science Engineering program with many opportunities for research and collaboration. While it may not hold the same national reputation as other California schools, the quality of education and resources remain competitive. It's essential to consider personal preferences and priorities when comparing universities.