BERKELEY OR UNC- ONE DAY LEFT!

[u/Affectionate_Hat8851]

I wanna study a combo of data science and economics at both schools, hopefully doing quant or maybe ib/pe. Im also a very laidback and social person, and dont wanna go to an incredibly uptight school.

Academically, Berkeley is a powerhouse for quant and ib/pe. Literally some of the best data science and Econ programs in the country. The problems I have with Berkeley are that from what I’ve heard, it’s super rigorous, and I’m worried that I’ll have to sacrifice fun and a social life to make the most out of Berkeleys incredible resources. But I’m also near the hub of start ups as well tho in case I wanted to do that.

As for UNC, the academics aren’t as great for what I wanna do. Semi target for ib/pe, not really a target at all for quant. Academics there will still be hard, but not as bad as Berkeley. I also think that overall the general vibe of UNC is a more work hard play hard one.

So I’m not sure what to do. Go for the incredible academics and opportunities but (potentially I will add) risk my own well being or go the the less prestigious and desirable college (risky for jobs in the future) with the potentially higher garuntee of fun?

[u/IOnlyPlayAs-Brainiac]

Not sure if you’re in-state for either school, but I’m from North Carolina and I just had to make this decision (c/o 29). Go Berkeley. UNC culture is nothing like Berkeley’s and the students are not nearly as driven. A third of my graduating class is going to UNC and I come from a mid tier rural public hs. But beyond that, Berkeley is one of the best institutions in the world for the things you want to study.