University of California—Santa Barbara (UCSB)

University of California-Santa Barbara is a great choice for students who are serious about their studies but also want a fun and fulfilling college experience. As one student notes, "UCSB is the perfect blend of academics and social life. I get to study at a renowned research university and work closely with professors while living on the beach and making lifelong friendships." Indeed, while the school's "incredible location" and "safe and beautiful campus" are major attractions, so is the wide variety of academic programs offeredeverything from actuarial science to zoology, according to the university. UCSB is known for being "strong in the sciences," especially its "highly ranked" mechanical and chemical engineering programs. If you're a self-directed learner, you may be interested in UCSB's highly selective College of Creative Studies, which one student says "allows me to pursue my academic interests with maximum freedom." While students appreciate the "laid-back" atmosphere at UCSB, they are quick to mention that the coursework can be "academically challenging." Fortunately, classes are taught by "outstanding professors" who, as one student declares, "I would challenge any Ivy school to match." While "many of [the] professors are Nobel Prize winners or well-known in their field," students say they are approachable and always available to help, rating "accessibility and knowledge of the professors" as one of the university's main strengths.

UCSB students are often described as "laid-back but hard-working," with one student adding, "I've met the smartest people of my life here." There is not just one type of student here. People are "extremely diverse, personality-wise" and come from "all sorts of socioeconomic backgrounds." This variety helps everyone find their own group and "feel at home here." As one student puts it, "Everyone finds their niche here." Overall, UCSB undergrads are "intelligent, sociable, [and] engaging," and "there is a great sense of community among the students." At a school where students are "very motivated and driven to succeed academically," the vibe stays upbeat, with one student cheekily adding that "the sunny weather keeps people happy."

At USCB, there's a vibrant community with around 500 student organizations that make it easy for students to dive into enjoyable activities once they've put down their books. One undergrad estimates that "85 percent of our student body is in at least one extracurricular activity." Another student notes, "Whether it be with sports, or in a community service or environmental club, rock climbing, politics, the list goes on. Students fit in by finding a good group of friends in the dorms and by getting involved in extracurricular activities." Beyond school activities, one student points out that "People think of UCSB exclusively as a party school, but it's what you make of it." Another student adds, "A lot of people party at UCSB... But don't be fooled. I've met some of the smartest, most hard-working people [here]." The "down to earth" atmosphere on campus sets UCBS apart from many other schools. As one student shares, "Every other college on my list seemed locked in an ivory tower. UCSB was the exception with both the warm, sun-kissed charm of a beach town and excellent academics."

According to PayScale.com, the median starting salary for a UCSB graduate is roughly $59,900 and popular careers include software engineer, mechanical engineer, and marketing manager. The most popular majors for UCSB students are Communication, Economics, and Sociology. While one Biochemistry major laments there are “basically too many students, and not enough open positions,” other students praise the range of internship and post-graduation career opportunities, with one describing UCSB as “a springboard for the greatest young minds to launch into highly successful research and careers.” The Career Services department at UCSB encourages students to take advantage of “GauchoLink,” a frequently updated database of job and internship opportunities that also lists upcoming career-oriented events hosted by the school or by potential employers. Students are also able to store letters of recommendation with the Career Services department so as to streamline the process of applying for internships or jobs during their school tenure or after graduation.