Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Entry 3 – My Research



  1. What type of institution is it (private, public, out-of-state, four-year, etc.)?
    1. University of Chicago
      1. Out-of-state, four year, private, urban, nondenominational, coeducational research university
    2. UC Riverside
      1. In-state, four year, urban, public university
    3. San Jose State University
      1. In-state, four year, public university
  2. What is the enrollment (gender, ethnicity, religion, age, etc.)?
    1. University of Chicago
      1. Total Number of Applicants: 30,304 Number Accepted: 2,670 Number Enrolled: 1,426
      2. 55% male, 45% female
      3. Asian - 28.26%, Black or African American - 8.42%, Hispanic or latino - 12.13%, Other - 12.55%, International - 11.08%
      4. School Type: 59% Public, 30% Private, 10% International
      5. 8.8% accepted
    2. UC Riverside
      1. Admits: 19,797 Applicants: 34,912 CA Residents: 89.7%
      2. Male admits: 8,587 Female admits: 10,256
      3. Acceptance Rates: 62%
      4. 6.3% African American, 35.4% Asian, 32.1% Latino and Chicano, .5% Native American, 17% White/Caucasian, 2.2% other ethnic/unknown, 6.5% international
    3. San Jose State University
      1. 16,226 - Female, 16,471 - Male
      2. Admitted: 32,697
      3. American Indian 0.45% African American 4.86% Asian 23.36% Filipino 6.98% Pacific Islander 0.88% Hispanic 15.49% White 7.39% Foreign 8.47% Other/Not stated 12.11%
      4. 19 years and under: 16.97% 20-24: 45.12% 25-29: 19.53% 30-34: 7.53% 35-59: 10.40% 60 and over: 0.45%
  3. Where is the institution located? (all times for driving)
    1. How far from home?
      1. University of Chicago
        1. out-of-state, state of Illinois, 1,976 miles 29 hours
      2. UC Riverside
        1. in-state, one county away, 23.3 miles away from home or 24 min
      3. San Jose State University
        1. in-state, 381 miles or 5 Hours 38 min away from home
    2. Is it urban/suburban/rural?
      1. University of Chicago
        1. already addressed - question #1
      2. UC Riverside
        1. already addressed - question #1
      3. San Jose State University
        1. urban campus, bay area
  4. What are the admission requirements?
    1. What tests do you need to take and pass to get into this institution?
      1. University of Chicago
        1. ACT or SAT Reasoning Test scores
      2. UC Riverside
        1. ACT with writing or SAT Reasoning Test
        2. UC Analytical Writing Placement Exam
      3. San Jose State University
        1. eligibility index of 2900 using the SAT or 694 using the ACT
        2. SAT (scores in mathematics and critical reading) + (800 x high school grade point average)
        3. (10 x ACT composite score without the writing score) + (200 x high school grade point average)
        4. English EPT and Math ELM
    2. What is the average GPA requirement?
      1. University of Chicago
        1. no requirement
      2. UC Riverside
        1. GPA of 3.0 or higher in “a-g” courses taken during grades 10 and 11
      3. San Jose State University
        1. “not a set "cut-off" GPA for frosh applicants,” - FAQ page
    3. What forms, letters, applications are necessary for this institution?
      1. University of Chicago
        1. Application for Admission
        2. Application Fee (only required for students not applying for need-based financial aid)
        3. Secondary School Report
        4. Teacher’s Evaluation’s
        5. Midyear Report
      2. UC Riverside
        1. Final Transcripts
        2. Annual Income (your parents’ if you are dependent, your’s if you are independent) - only necessary if your are going to apply for an application fee waiver
        3. SSN
        4. Citizenship
        5. CA Student ID
        6. Personal Statement
        7. General and Freshman essay
        8. Application fee
        9. University Application
      3. San Jose State University
        1. High School Diploma or equivalent
        2. University Application
        3. Application Fee or Fee Waiver
        4. Intent to Enroll Application
        5. Freshman Housing Requirement Priority Application
        6. Final Transcripts
  5. How much will it cost to attend this institution?
    1. What other projected costs will attending this institution incur?
      1. University of Chicago
        1. $59,950 - includes annual tuition + books + supplies + fees + room and board
          1. Over four-year period = $239,800
          2. Including food = $262,420
      2. UC Riverside
        1. $14,762 - includes annual tuition + books + supplies + fees
          1. Over four-year period = $59,048
          2. I’m close enough to home to still live there and so my parents insist that I wouldn’t pay a rent to them for continuing to live at home.
      3. San Jose State University
        1. $22,699 - includes annual tuition + books + supplies + fees +room and board
          1. Over four-year period = $90,796
          2. Including meal-plan = $100,796
    2. How do you plan to cover them?
      1. FAFSA - $5,645
      2. Pell Grant - $5,730
      3. Cal Grant B Entitlement
        1. 1st year - $1000 or more
        2. 2nd year - 1st year’s amount + $12,00
      4. Randomly Chosen Scholarships Simulation 50% of those found - maximum award
        1. Unigo $10,000 Scholarship
        2. $2,000 February “No Essay” Scholarship
        3. Young Naturalist Awards - $2500 - maximum award
      5. Federal Educational Opportunity Grant
      6. Middle Class Scholarship
      7. Federal Work Study
      8. University of Chicago
        1. National Hispanic Recognition Program - $4000 per year
  6. What are the living arrangements necessary for you to attend this institution? (If this was addressed in #6, simply state “see above”.)
    1. University of Chicago
      1. College Freshmen are required to live in a kind of House system where they live with an average of 75 neighbor-like peers and partake in house activities that take place in one of 11 buildings. This rule is around to try helping college students adjust to university life.
    2. UC Riverside
      1. No specific living arrangements.
    3. San Jose State University
      1. Freshman, who graduated from high schools outside of a 30 mile radius of SJSU, are required to live on any of the University’s dorms.
  7. What does it mean to declare a major?
    1. What steps must be taken prior to declaring a major at this institution?
      1. University of Chicago
        1. Well in advance, you must contact the department of your intended major so you could get the suggested or required deadline.
        2. Log into the student portal.
        3. Tell your college adviser.
      2. UC Riverside
        1. Complete an Undergraduate Major Change Petition. These forms are available in the departmental academic advising offices.
        2. Arrange to meet with the departmental academic adviser in the department whose major you wish to declare. The optimum time to meet with a departmental adviser is during week three of the quarter.
        3. Obtain the departmental academic adviser's signature for approval to declare the major and discuss your progress toward your degree.
      3. San Jose State University
        1. First register for and attend a Change of Major Workshop for the specific major you are interested in.
        2. Register online to secure your spot using the College of Science Advising Center's appointment system.
        3. First time users might have to create their own account.
    2. What type of major might you pursue at this institution?
      1. I am planning on majoring in Geology or Ecology and Evolution at everyone of these institutions.
    3. What is a description of this major?
      1. Geology
        1. Geology is literally the study of the Earth and what composes it. It also delves into the Earth’s history and how it has changed over time.
      2. Ecology and Evolution
        1. Ecology and Evolutionary Biology is the study of how living things evolve over time and how different species and their environment interact with each other to create a complex ecosystem.
    4. What does this institution rank in relation to your chosen major?
      1. University of Chicago
        1. #33 in major quality - Geology
        2. Biological Sciences department ranked at #14
      2. UC Riverside
        1. #66 in major quality - Geology
        2. no ranking available for degree in Ecology and Evolution
      3. San Jose State University
        1. #105 in major quality - Geology
        2. no ranking available for degree in Ecology and Evolution
  8. What skills are necessary to be successful in this major?
    1. Geology
      1. Quick and effective observation skills
      2. Effective analytical skills
      3. Computer and Mechanical skills
      4. Effective writing skills
      5. Good diplomatic and interpersonal skills
      6. Effective public speaking skills
    2. Ecology and Evolution
      1. Effective and creative problem solving skills
      2. Research skills
      3. Effective analytical skills
      4. Quick and effective observation skills
      5. Group/Collaborative skills
      6. Effective writing skills
      7. Ability to call upon learned knowledge
  9. What high school courses are needed for this major?
    1. Geology
      1. Chemistry
      2. Physics
      3. PreCalculus or Calculus
      4. Biology
      5. English
      6. Computer Science
    2. Ecology and Evolution
      1. One year of biology
      2. One year of chemistry
      3. Mathematics through trigonometry
      4. One year of physics
  10. What courses does one take to fulfill this major?
    1. University of Chicago
      1. Geology
        1. Comprehensive General Chemistry I-II (or equivalent)
        2. Elementary Functions and Calculus I-II (or higher)
        3. Evolution and Ecology
        4. Biodiversity
        5. Comprehensive General Chemistry III (or equivalent)
        6. General Physics I-II-III (or higher)
        7. Physical Geology
        8. Earth History
        9. The Atmosphere
        10. Elementary Functions and Calculus III (or higher)
        11. 2 approved Mathematics or Statistics courses
        12. 8 courses in 20000-level sciences (must be approved by counselor)
      2. Ecology and Evolution
        1. Introductory General Chemistry I
        2. Introductory General Chemistry II (or equivalent)
        3. Comprehensive General Chemistry I-II
        4. Elementary Functions and Calculus I-II (or higher), Calculus I-II, or Honors Calculus I-II
        5. A Serious Introduction to Biology for Majors: From LUCA to the University of Chicago
        6. Introduction to Quantitative Modeling in Biology (basic)
        7. Comprehensive General Chemistry III (or equivalent)
        8. General Physics I-II (or higher)
        9. Mathematical Methods for Biological Sciences I, General Physics III (or higher), or Statistical Methods and Applications
        10. Ecology and Conservation
        11. Evolution and Ecology
        12. Biodiversity
        13. 6 courses with a course number over 20236 in Biological Sciences
        14. 3 more quantitative courses that are chosen in consultation with your Ecology and Evolution college adviser
    2. UC Riverside
      1. Geology
        1. For my interests, I can take either of the following paths - General Geology or Geobiology.
      2. Ecology and Evolution
        1. BCH 100(4)
        2. BIOL 102(4)
        3. 3 from the following: BIOL 105(4)  BIOL 108(4) BIOL 116(4) BIOL 160(4) ENTM/ BIOL/ BPSC 112(4)
        4. One of the following: BIOL 151(5), BIOL 157(4), ENTM/ BIOL 100(4), ENTM 114(3), PLPA/ BIOL 134(3), or PLPA/ BIOL 134L(1)
        5. One of the following: BIOL 160(4), BIOL 160L*(1), BIOL 161A(5), BIOL 161B(5), BIOL 174(4), BIOL 175(4), BIOL 178(4), BPSC/ BIOL 138(4), or ENTM/ BIOL 162(4)
        6. One of the following: BIOL 105(4), BIOL 108(4), BIOL 116(4), BIOL 119(4), BIOL 163(5), BIOL 166(3), BPSC 146(4), BPSC/ BIOL 148(4), BPSC/ BIOL 165(4), ENTM /BIOL/ BPSC 112(4), or ENTM/ BIOL 127(4)
        7. At least one of the following: STAT 100A(5),  STAT 100B(5)
        8. Any combination of classes from this link that will bring your amount of credits to 52
    3. San Jose State University
      1. Geology
        1. Click here to go to the page with all the major course requirements.
      2. Ecology and Evolution
        1. Click here to go to the page with all the major course requirements.
  11. What is the study/workload like for this major?
    1. Geology
      1. According to university.com, professors expect you to spend an average of 18 hours for studying and prep time. In addition, geology majors tend to take courses that are  very “brainy” and demanding.
      2. Also ranks as #2 most demanding major under the broader category of Physical Sciences.
    2. Ecology and Evolution
      1. According to university.com, professors expect you to spend an average of 19 hours per week for studying and prep.
      2. Also ranks as #3 most demanding major under Biological Sciences
  12. Can you graduate in four years in your intended major? Is it common? If it’s not, is a five-year+ plan okay with you and/or your family?
    1. Since I want a bachelors of science in either of my intended majors, I’m answering for both. It is possible to graduate in four-years, but it only happens around 36% of the time. Furthermore, in 6 years 57% of students complete their bachelors. If I do need to take more than 4 years to complete my degree, it would be fine with me and my family.
    2. How many units do you need to graduate with your intended major?
      1. University of Chicago
        1. Geology: 2400 units
        2. Ecology and Evolution: 1600 units
      2. UC Riverside
        1. Geology: 77-80 units for either concentration.
        2. Ecology and Evolution: 52 units
      3. San Jose State University
        1. Geology: 120 units
        2. Ecology and Evolution: 120 units
  13. In college, you have a lot of free time. What clubs or groups are you interested in joining (research campus life)?
    1. University of Chicago
      1. Harris Food Policy Group
      2. Harris Energy Association
      3. Winston Churchill Gaming Society
    2. UC Riverside
      1. Gamers Guild at UCR
      2. Geology Student Organization
      3. Badminton Club
      4. E-Sports at UCR
    3. San Jose State University
      1. Badminton Club
      2. Biodiversity Club
      3. Biology Student Association
      4. Game Development Club
      5. Geology Club
      6. United Card Club
  14. What career might one go into with this major?
    1. Paleontology - Geology/ Evolution
    2. Ecologist - Ecology and Evolution
    3. Environmental Management - Geology/Ecology and Evolution
  15. What are the viewpoints of current students in this major?
    1. University of Chicago
      1. Academics: Hard but So Worth It – I love being pushed, and UChicago definitely pushes me. Excellent profs, students really help each other (not much competition since everyone eventually will probably need help in a class). But, despite our reputation, the workload is totally manageable, and the core is really exciting. - College Sophomore
      2. Campus Quality: Dubbed as the place "fun goes to die," UChicago can be a bit overwhelming at times. The student body is very friendly and welcoming and everyone is excited to meet each other. The workload can be heavy at times, but there are always exciting, fun classes and the school is meant for people who want to be challenged and engage in rigorous mental activity. The University is currently doing large expansions with the opening of Mansueto Library and the current construction of the Logan arts center. The biggest downside for me is how cold it is! - College Senior
    2. UC Riverside
      1. Majors: My major it's Spanish, but i will major in biochemistry to be able to go attend medical school. There are many programs that can lead you to medical school. To find a job it might be hard, but UCR has many programs that can help yoh find a job. - Recent Alumnus
      2. Campus Quality: I love the school pride every one has. I have found that my advisers as well as other counselors are very supportive. I really enjoy my campus and the students are all so friendly. The professors seem to actually care about their students and go out of their way to assist as much as they can. - College Junior
    3. San Jose State University
      1. Academics: In my particular field of study I have the best teachers. They are passionate, helpful, and know what they are teaching about. We are in Silicon Valley so the job market is huge for practically all majors. There are many different clubs to get involved in that pertain to your major and that can help you a lot when it comes to courses and also picking courses for the upcoming semesters. - College Sophomore
      2. Campus Quality: There are approximately more than 200 student organizations and clubs on campus. Most of these are active and help the student body connect with one another. Usually people connect through these clubs and build stronger connections over time. Students often hang out at the events, dorms, and at restaurants off campus. The student life is diverse and accepting in my opinion. - College Freshman
  16. What other majors relate to this major?
    1. Geology - Marine Biology, Soil Science, and Geography
    2. Ecology and Evolution - Genetics, Statistics, and Evolutionary ecology
  17. What questions would you ask a college admissions counselor?
    1. University of Chicago
      1. Is it possible for an undergraduate student to volunteer in a certain academic department?
      2. Do undergraduate students get priority when the apply to be graduate students at UChicago?
      3. Where can I go for the best off-campus living experience?
    2. UC Riverside
      1. Is it possible for an undergraduate student to volunteer in a certain academic department?
      2. Are freshmen required to buy meal plans?
      3. What events does UCR hold annually?
    3. San Jose State University
      1. Where can I find the best off-campus living experience?
      2. Am I allowed to volunteer in certain academic departments?
      3. Does SJSU have a partnership with a museum?
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