Hi, I am a high school senior living in a State of Hawaii and got accepted to UC Irvine for computer engineering major. I’m still waiting for Cal Poly Pomona’s response for admissions, but if I was admitted to Cal Poly Pomona with computer science or CIS major, which is the better option? I am E-2 Visa holder and can get in-state tuition after first year since my whole family is moving to California, but UC Irvine is very costly with more than $41,000 only fees and tuition, but Cal Poly Pomona is around half of UC Irvine’s. Finances are important issue too. (By the way, I can’t apply for FAFSA due to citizenship concern).
Hey Chris, As a current student (senior) at Cal Poly Pomona, I can tell you that our computer science program/ engineering program is definitely something to consider. From what I’ve heard from other students, is that they place a lot of emphasis on hands-on experience (hence their slogan). Since I learn more efficiently from actual experience, rather than textbook-style learning, I would opt for Pomona.
However, that being said, UC Irvine is highly ranked even in the nation, and is a recognized school. While Pomona is a more specialized school, UC Irvine beats Pomona in pure ranking. It is however, extremely expensive. I would say if you plan on going on to pursue higher education (graduate school), then save your money and go to Pomona. You can most likely achieve a better GPA if you do, and it will be easier to apply to graduate schools (accounting for any kind of grade inflation, which Pomona has little of), all the while saving thousands of dollars.
Now, if you have no plans at all to pursue higher education, then I would stick with UC Irvine, as it will Most Likely be easier to land a job after graduation. Despite this, Chris, it’s really up to you. I know it’s difficult, but try to visit both schools, after you get accepted into Pomona. See which one you like more, just basic vibe, location, whatever…
You will do best in whichever environment you feel most comfortable in, and that is a fact of life. Good Luck!
Thank you for your comment! Based on your comment, I think I should wait for scholarships that both colleges will give and decide for better option. I think I have a preference on Pomona, but I think it is worth waiting. Thanks again!
@chriskimkim:
Cal States and UC’s give good need-based aid to in-state students, but give little merit aid (scholarships) in general, so do not expect to pay anything less than full price. When is your family moving to California?
That said, both schools will give you a very good education so if they are financially feasible, than pick the school the meets your academic as well as your social goals.
UCI is around $60K/year with tuition/fees/room/board and CPP is around $36-40K/year.
How much can your family afford to pay?
Did you apply to any outside scholarships?
my family is moving to California in August I assume and I’m not too sure about how much our family can afford. I applied to 3 outside scholarships and planning to apply a lot more soon. And the room and board I don’t need to worry about since I will be living with my parents.