Why UCL is better than Cambridge (from studying at both)

Summary

In this humorous yet insightful comparison, Francis, a UCL graduate, evaluates both UCL and Cambridge across several categories, including aesthetics, food, culture, accommodation, academics, and ethics. He highlights Cambridge's picturesque architecture and sense of community, contrasting it with UCL’s vibrant London location and food scene. While both universities have their merits, Cambridge excels in aesthetic and cultural aspects, while UCL wins in terms of food variety and academic consistency. Despite the draw in certain categories, Francis ultimately declares UCL as the superior institution, with a lighthearted conclusion that encourages viewers to explore a day in the life at UCL.

Takeaways

• 😀 Cambridge's architectural aesthetic is far superior to UCL's, with iconic structures like Kings College Chapel, Wren Library, and more, making it a prime spot for Instagram-worthy photos.
• 🍽️ UCL wins on food variety, offering access to all types of cuisine in London, whereas Cambridge offers formal dinners with upscale meals, but the daily food options are often less impressive.
• 👥 Cambridge provides a strong sense of community, with the college system fostering a close-knit environment, while UCL lacks this cohesion, feeling more like a scattered university in the city of London.
• 🏠 Accommodation at Cambridge is provided for all three years of undergrad, while UCL only offers housing for the first year, leaving students to find their own living arrangements in the expensive London housing market.
• 📚 The academic experience at Cambridge is bolstered by one-on-one supervisions with tutors, which is a big part of their learning system. In contrast, UCL offers less personal academic feedback and focuses more on written feedback.
• 💡 UCL is more focused on academic publishing and research-driven learning, encouraging students to publish their work, while Cambridge leaves the initiative up to the students, with less emphasis on publishing.
• 🏛️ UCL has a more modern reputation, being the first university to admit women and students of all religions, while Cambridge has a darker past with ties to the East India Company and late admission of women.
• 🎓 Cambridge is known for having a prestigious academic reputation that often attracts high-achieving students, which could contribute to the university’s overall success, beyond the quality of teaching.
• 💰 While Cambridge may have a prestigious reputation, students at UCL can take pride in attending a university with more progressive and inclusive historical milestones.
• ⚖️ The script ends with a draw between the two institutions, but UCL is declared the 'better' university due to its inclusivity, academic reputation, and modern approach.

Q & A

What are the main differences in the aesthetic appeal of UCL and Cambridge?

UCL's aesthetic is dominated by brutalist architecture, with limited iconic buildings, while Cambridge offers a wide range of beautiful architectural landmarks like King's College Chapel and the Wren Library, creating a more picturesque and aesthetic campus environment.

How does the food experience at Cambridge compare to that at UCL?

At Cambridge, food quality varies by college, with formal dinners being an elegant and memorable experience, though everyday meals are similar to a school canteen. In contrast, UCL's food is described as overpriced and not particularly satisfying, but the diversity of food options in London compensates for this shortcoming.

What is the sense of community like at UCL compared to Cambridge?

UCL lacks a strong sense of community, as students are scattered across London and the university is not as centralized. In contrast, Cambridge has a strong sense of belonging due to its collegiate system, where students live and study within specific colleges, fostering emotional attachment and camaraderie.

What are the differences in accommodation between UCL and Cambridge?

At UCL, students are accommodated only in their first year and must find their own housing in London thereafter. Cambridge, however, provides college accommodations for all three years of an undergraduate's studies, making it a more stable and comfortable living arrangement.

How does the academic structure differ between UCL and Cambridge?

UCL offers more consistent teaching with a focus on academic research and publishing, while Cambridge uses a supervision system where students engage in one-on-one or small group discussions with their professors. Cambridge's system allows for more personalized learning but requires students to take more responsibility for their research.

What moral issues are associated with the histories of UCL and Cambridge?

Cambridge has been historically involved in controversial activities, such as its links with the East India Company and the Royal African Company. Additionally, Cambridge was slow to admit women. UCL, on the other hand, was the first to admit women and students regardless of religion, although it also has ties to early eugenics movements.

How does the cost of living and housing impact students at UCL?

Living in London, particularly in the housing market, is extremely expensive for UCL students, who must find their own housing after their first year. This can create significant financial and logistical challenges, especially in a competitive housing market.

What role does Cambridge's collegiate system play in student life?

Cambridge’s collegiate system plays a central role in student life by creating a strong sense of community within each college. Students live and socialize within their colleges, making it easier to form bonds and a sense of belonging, which contrasts with the more dispersed and city-based nature of UCL.

What is the general vibe of the UCL campus like compared to Cambridge?

UCL’s campus is described as lacking a distinct vibe, as it is spread out across London, blending into the city. In contrast, Cambridge has a more contained and immersive vibe, with the university essentially forming the core of the town, offering a more cohesive and picturesque student experience.

How does the university experience at UCL differ for introverted students compared to Cambridge?

For introverted students, Cambridge may be a better fit due to its close-knit community and tranquil environment, whereas UCL’s busy, urban setting might be overwhelming, especially for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere. Cambridge’s college system also provides more opportunities for meaningful, smaller interactions.