<p>I have already posted this in the University of Florida forum, but I wanted to get advice from both sides.
Out of my admitted schools, I have come down to two options: University of Florida or University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. I am going into computer science, and both schools seem to have respected Computer Science programs.
UIUC seems like the better choice because it is ranked higher than UF (UIUC - 5th; UF - 47th) for its computer science program. It seems like an amazing school, but the only issue is that UIUC is my out-of-state option. Four years at UIUC would leave me graduating with $180,000 in debt. And i know that this a dumb reason, but the idea of going to college out-of-state is much more appealing.
UF is the safer option. UF is my in-state option, only 72 miles away from my hometown. I will most likely be able to graduate from the university debt-free, as the university is giving me much better financial aid as well as Florida Bright Futures helping with payment. Unlike UIUC, I will be enrolled in the Honors College and taking residency in the Honors College Dorms.
Both options are very appealing to me in different ways. I know that the $180,000 of debt seems extreme and absolutely insane, but I wanted to see if anyone out there would suggest a reason why this debt may seem worth it.
The factors that are most important to me are the curriculum, the internship opportunities while in school, and the career opportunities right out of college.
I know this post may seem dumb and the answer may seem obvious, but I want to get as much advise as I can before I make this decision. I most likely will only make this decision once, so I hope to make the right one.</p>
<p>I’m not a computer science guy, but these are my two cents: UIUC is a great school. Super good. But choice of school will also depend on what your career goals are. If you aspire to work in Silicon Valley or some super famous tech firm, then maybe UIUC is for you. Your classmates will be smart and likeminded. But for something like computer science, it seems like you can be successful no matter where you go to school—as long as you have the talent and experience. If you go to UF, you won’t have to worry about finances and will have the time/resources to pursue internship opportunities. $180k debt is simply ridiculous for an undergraduate education. Have you received your award letter yet from UIUC?</p>
<p>EDIT: And I may add that interest will begin to accrue on that $180k. If your debt will honestly be that much, I would definitely say it’s not worth it. </p>
<p>Try asking that question in the engineering major forum- more engineers hanging out there. Another thought- what about transferring to UIUC soph or junior year?</p>