<p>^ Engineering is tough but rewarding.</p>
<p>If you’re serious about working as an engineer you don’t need to go to a top program for employment opportunities.</p>
<p>I graduated from a nearly top-ranked program…worked my ass off but still had ample time for fun. The large university environment created lots of diversions and I still look back on the communal stress with my college friends as some of the best years of my life. </p>
<p>If you’re in-state for Michigan (which has some of the best engineering programs in the nation), that would definitely be my top choice unless you can get an out-of-state private option that’s cheaper. Don’t spend a ton of money for a top engineering program if you’re gonna work as an engineer…employers will not reward you for it and you will not see a great return on your investment.</p>
<p>I’d apply to Rice and USC…they’re pretty generous with financial aid if you have strong academic stats. Also apply to your in-state options (Michigan and MSU). </p>
<p>Note: All engineering will be academically intense…find a place that you’ll enjoy for other attributes (with cost also a top consideration).</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>