Computer Science, Illinois vs. Wisconsin

College Majors Engineering Majors
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<p>DS went to a powerhouse CS school, but didn’t major in CS. Majored in MechE and HCI. Last 4 years into robotics and computer i/o. Now does platform (iOS,Android) design and apps. He has Never, taken a computer class or programming class. He just does things that he has a passion for. His portfolio prior to his current employment has nothing to do with iOS or Android, but with design and technical applications. He’s had some interviews with the big names, and 3 internships with Microsoft, offered an Apple internship but went on a graduation trip instead. He’s underpaid now but pay is moving up rapidly and he’s gaining valuable experience technically, politically, and managerically-which money can’t buy. Small company, <200. His friends make more $$$ adjusting for cost-of-living but variety is lacking, where-as he likes his work (home or office, collegiate hours) and his lifestyle freedom . He’s going to visit his google and silicon valley classmates and friends between Xmas and NYr because He can, and They can’t. </p>

<p>A good college helps, but doing what you really enjoy can make life more fun.</p>

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<p>Will an employer or recruiter research online which school had higher rankings to determine which to interview or hire? My guess is no. It’s all about what you know and how well they think you will perform on the job.</p>

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<p>For some families the different costs don’t really matter that much. A few have been spending comparable amounts on annual tuition since preschool. If the school name truly doesn’t matter, I’d visit all three and attend the one I liked best. (In my case, that would be Wisconsin, though I’m an Illinois grad).</p>

<p>I also have to add, my husband got his S.B. from one of the top programs in his field. He probably could have gotten an equally good education at another school. Interestingly, he has worked for three companies in four different positions; every person who hired him was a fellow alum of his undergrad alma mater.</p>