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Hi, I'm an undeclared Letters & Sciences major, from the Bay Area, debating whether to go to Berkeley, UCLA, UCSD, Northwestern, or Cornell. I have been leaning toward UCLA because I really like the school and the area, and I know I'd have a lot of fun there while getting still a great education. (Yes, LA over Berkeley, mainly because Berkeley is super-competitive and too close to home.) However, I have been thinking about going to an east coast school for a different experience. I went to camp at Northwestern during one summer and really loved the campus, the people, and the town of Evanston. I don't know much about Cornell, except that it's an Ivy school. (Although I've heard it has a beautiful campus, but has the highest suicide rate(?)) I have been receiving mixed opinions on Cornell. Can anyone please offer me suggestions??

By Ed on Sunday, May 19, 2002 - 08:26 pm: Edit

LA over Berkeley? You fool! Berkeley is higher rated, has more prestige and a better repuation than UCLA! UCLA are for apathetic students who try to graduate with the lowest GPA possible!

By Dave Berry on Sunday, May 19, 2002 - 09:27 pm: Edit

>>UCLA are [sic] for apathetic students who try to graduate with the lowest GPA possible!<<

Hey, Ed. Just curious. Could you cite your source for making this sweeping generalization? I'll bet that at least a handful of UCLA students strive for excellence.

By Bias on Tuesday, June 04, 2002 - 07:20 pm: Edit

If you can get into Cornell, go to Cornell. All of the schools you have chosen are good ones; however, Cornell is clearly a mark above.

By Fidelio on Tuesday, June 04, 2002 - 09:30 pm: Edit

The rumor about Cornell's suicide rate is just that - rumor. It's an urban legend that's been circulating for a long time. Check the website, Ask Uncle Ezra, I think, to see this myth debunked.

By dumbledore on Tuesday, June 04, 2002 - 09:49 pm: Edit

have you identified possible areas of study- besides location? will you qualify for need based or rely solely on merit aid? in-state vs private tuition- a bit of a difference? if time and money permits, visit as many campuses and do a thorough tour and follow up with regular students and students in your intended majors. then let admissions and finances be your guide.