Just curious. Please give your specific reasons!
I’d go to UChi because I like Chicago, it’s extremely rigorous and intellectual, it’s not in Ithaca, and it’s not catastrophically underfunded.
Cornell or Chicago
UChicago for the intellectual environment and focus.
Cornell for the strong academics, natural environment, beautiful campus and great college town. In terms of large schools, Cornell may not have a rival with similar attributes.
Were you admitted to all three already?
If so, what are your net costs?
What’s your intended major?
I’d rate Cal third on the list for undergrad. Class sizes are too big and it looks like it’s running into some serious funding problems again.
OTOH, I’d rate Cal tops for grad school.
If I was in-state in California and money was an issue for my family, I would choose Cal.
If money was not an issue, and I knew I wanted to be an engineer, I would choose Cornell.
For studying anything other than engineering (or if I was undecided about what I wanted to study), I would choose UChicago. Chicago doesn’t offer engineering, but for everything it does offer, it is exceptional.