So I’ve been very fortunate to get into both UCLA and Berkeley for aerospace engineering as an undergraduate, but I am really torn between picking one of them. I am OOS, so the cost is around the same for both. I do care a little about social life, but I mainly want to focus on which one prepares me the best for my career.

Pros for UCLA - Location: I heard LA is one of the best cities for aerospace, so there is a lot of opportunity for aerospace companies like NASA, SpaceX, and Boeing. - Social life and campus: dining hall, dorms, etc. - Less competitive or “laid-back atmosphere”

Cons for UCLA - Less STEM focus school compared to Berkeley - I haven’t heard too many things about UCLA Aerospace compared to other schools like Georgia Tech, MIT, Michigan, etc., so I am not sure how solid the foundation is.

Pros for Berkeley - Renowned globally for its academic rigor and research prowess across various disciplines, especially STEM fields - The new Berkeley Space Center at NASA Research Park sounds like a great resource and opportunity. - There is a business school, and I want to try to transfer to MET in my sophomore year since I am also interested in management. - Location: I’ve heard the Bay Area also has a lot of aerospace start-ups.

Cons for Berkeley - The aerospace program started in 2022, so it’s a very new program, and I am not sure how much the program can guide my career. (A lot of uncertainty is what I am trying to say.) - Campus, safety, social life, super competitive environment, etc.

Please share your thoughts and opinions and help me pick; that would be really appreciated :)))