<p>I'm planning to major in mechanical engineering and I'm currently deciding between these three schools. Can you guys help me out in deciding which one is better?</p>
<p>CPSLO has one of the best undergrad engineering programs. Bear in mind that many consider CPSLO, a Cal State, to be on par with mid-tier UCs for undergrad, i.e. UCI, UCD, and UCSB.</p>
<p>SLO is more hands-on engineering, whereas the UCs are more theoretical. Both SLO and Davis have great college town feels. UCI engineering is up and coming, IMO. Santa Barbara is the ultimate college party town. </p>
<p>Personally, I'd recommend Davis or Irvine over SLO, just for the UC parchment paper, which will mean more to grad schools. Even if you are not considering grad school, now, you may in the future.</p>
<p>Whats the atmosphere like and the competitiveness of each school?</p>
<p>I would go with Calpoly for engineering. It has one of the best programs, the students there are heavily recruited after college. I have met several Calpoly engineering students in the professional world and have been impressed by all of them. Davis and Irvine do not compare in the engineering field.</p>