Academic program reputation: Which one should you choose?

I consider the Academic program reputation as one of the most important factors because it ultimately determined my decision as to which accredited college I wanted to attend. I applied to three universities for multiple reasons. Here they are:

University of California, Davis (UC Davis): great animal science program, good school reputation, the only public university in California to have a veterinary school; this is my first choice

California Polytechnic University, Pomona(CSU Pomona): has an animal science program, cheaper cost of attendance compared to UC Davis, close to home (but not too close so I don't have to stay at home); this is my back-up plan in case I don't get accepted to UC Davis

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB): close proximity to parents house, cheaper cost of attendance, easier transition from community college; this is my back-up plan in case I don't get accepted to my first two college choices

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I got accepted to all three universities and so I was stumped on which one to choose because of all the reasons/advantages that I chose them for. Now, it's time for the elimination round. First one out? CSULB. I did not choose this college was because they did not have the academic program I wanted which is animal science. Choosing this school would mean I would have to major in biology or some other health science which would be fine but I would need to take extra classes in order to meet the prerequisites for veterinary school (if and when I decide to apply).

End decision: I chose UC Davis for all the reasons that I mentioned above but it was a tough decision for me even though it was my first choice. My decision was difficult because I know that CSU Pomona also a good academic program reputation at a much cheaper price. However, I also know that CSU Pomona is more known for their Engineering program and not their animal science program whereas animal science is one of UC Davis' specialty. This is the reason why I chose UC Davis instead of my second choice. I considered the higher cost of attendance as an investment which will earn me more money in the future.

Was I right in my decision? Definitely! In fact, I consider it the one of the best decisions that I ever made. When I finally attended UC Davis for the last two years of my undergraduate study, I realized that many of my classes had hands-on training which enhanced my learning experience. In addition, my teachers were very enthusiastic and knowledgeable about their subject matter.

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The classes challenged my mind in a way that is engaging and fun. I'm not saying that I wouldn't have experienced the same in the two other schools because I have no way of knowing that. However, I do feel that the things I learned from the animal science program at UC Davis prepared me well for the challenges that I am currently facing in my career everyday.

Another positive outcome that I discovered while looking for jobs as a new college graduate was that some employers may favor certain schools. Okay, I am not completely sure about this one but I do know, from experience, that my employer did consider my school and my academic program as one of their criteria for hiring me. Please note that I am not telling you not to attend state schools because they are a great choice for other majors such as business, economics, education etc. My take away lesson is that the academic program I chose was a very important factor in my success today.

My advice for you is do your research and make a list of the qualities you want/need in a college, Then, use this as a tool in making your decision. Remember, there can be many reasons out there for choosing a school but choose those that matters the most to you.

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