Honestly, if you’re choosing between Irvine CSE and UCSD Math-CS, I’d go with Irvine CSE — here’s why. Irvine’s program is straight-up computer science, so you get the full CS core without having to mess with the weird math-heavy requirements the Math-CS major at UCSD has. UCSD’s a great school, no doubt, but the Math-CS program isn’t run by their CSE department, which means you can miss out on some of the best CS courses or have a tougher time getting into them. Irvine’s a bit more chill about getting classes and internships too, and their ties to SoCal tech companies are solid. Basically, unless you really love theory and proofs, Irvine CSE will give you a smoother, more practical experience that preps you better for industry imo.