Cornell vs. CMU vs. GT engineering (BME)

[leapingbunny48]

Hi, I was accepted to engineering at Cornell, CMU, and Georgia Tech and would appreciate any suggestions as I make my decision.

Here are my important factors:

1. Strength of BME program: Seems like GT has the best BME program, but Cornell and CMU are also strong. I’d have to take on BME as a 2nd major at CMU, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

2. Flexibility to take non-engineering classes: I also equally love humanities/social sciences and want to also pursue philosophy or sociology if able. Also want to have some room to explore other new areas. I’m leaning towards CMU and Cornell (privates) and away from GT for this reason.

3. Size/support: CMU’s undergrad population is the smallest (1/2 the size of Cornell’s), so CMU class sizes are probably smaller (potentially more engaging learning environment)?

4. Research opportunities: I’m interested in doing grad school → industry/academia, and I want to be involved in research as early as possible. I want a place where one can be involved heavily in research.

5. Location: I don’t mind the rural part of Cornell (love nature), but am concerned about the seasonal depression and possible impact on finding internships. Pittsburgh and Atlanta may be incrementally better?

6. CS/ECE, potentially?: I don’t have much CS experience currently, but given its increasing importance I want to leave my options open, to perhaps take a few classes and explore the bio/CS intersection. CMU is undisputably better in CS/computer engineering, and I’d have the option to major in ECE if I want to.

7. Alumni network & job outcomes: All are very well-regarded, but Cornell probably has more prestige (as an international student).

GT is cheaper than Cornell and CMU, but I can afford all. I’m currently leaning towards Cornell, but would like to fully consider all options before deciding.

Thank you!

[momofboiler1]

Based on your criteria, I think Cornell is the best fit (minus the weather).

[CCName1]

Don’t choose CMU over Cornell for the weather. I love Pittsburgh, but it can be a dreary, sunless place during a lot of the school year.

[tsbna44]

I think all three are great and you are looking for some differentiator, like research, that may not exist.

Weather - Ga Tech wins.

Academic flexibility - read each curriculum, gen Ed requirements. Find course sequences - ask to speak to an academic advisor at each to see what can and cannot be done.

Class size - don’t assume. That figure will be available online but it might be better to call/email. The bigger student population likely has more faculty to handle it. You can get an overall figure on line but reach out to each school for your dept of interest which may be different than the overall school.

Since you are international and Ivy seems to matter from all I’ve read, if that is that critical then Cornell. But I would think that all three are great names all over.

Three great choices. Best of luck.