UC Riverside vs Long Beach State

Hey guys, just your typical indecisive junior here. I'm considering both UC Riverside and Long Beach State. Does anyone have any insight into which school provides a better overall experience or education, especially for a Bio major? Any advice would be gratefully appreciated.

It's great that you're looking into both UC Riverside and Long Beach State, two terrific schools, each with unique advantages. Let's examine both based on a Biology major’s perspective.

UC Riverside: This UC has a notable Division of Biomedical Sciences and Bioengineering Program. It's also famous for its research opportunities for undergraduates, which is an important part of becoming a competitive applicant for grad school in biological sciences.

Long Beach State: Known for its strong connections to local industries and nonprofits, it provides various practical opportunities for hands-on learning.

However, here are a few more considerations beyond just academics:

Campus Life: UC Riverside tends to provide a more traditional college environment with a large residential population and numerous on-campus activities. On the other hand, Long Beach State has more commuter students and the social scene may be a bit different because of that.

Location: Riverside is inland and has a warmer climate, while Long Beach is situated along the coast and enjoys a milder coastal climate.

In conclusion, both schools could be a great fit depending on what you value in your college experience. Try to consider what learning environment you would thrive in, whether it's more research-oriented or focused on local industry connections. Also, take into account the lifestyle and climate that each location offers.

You may find it helpful to virtually tour the campuses or speak with current students or alumni to get a better feel for each school's culture and learning environment. Recognizing what kind of experience you're looking for will significantly guide your decision-making process.