<p>GW v Lehigh v MD v Roch
So the results are in and my choices are between GW, Lehigh, Maryland-CP, and U Rochester. I am interested in studying mechanical engineering and would appreciate suggestions about what to consider in deciding between these schools. All comments are appreciated.</p>
<p>OOS for Maryland. With Merit Aid at other schools, cost is about the same for all 4.</p>
<p>I want a great education with strong teachers and other passionate students. I know mech e at GW and Roch is small. Is it better to be a big fish in a small pond? Maryland has a highly ranked department but is it too big with not enough interaction between faculty and students (small fish in big pond?) Lehigh has a strong engineering department but its rep as the #3 party school is not a plus.</p>
<p>I have visited all of the schools and their sales pitch sounds the same (great facilities, internships, research, co-op, etc.) I know all the schools are different but I can see myself at each of them. Hard to decide.</p>
<p>I don’t have a dog in this fight and I think highly of all 4 schools. But, in your case, I think the answer is pretty clear. </p>
<p>Based on academics for mechanical engineering, I’d say Maryland is a clear #1, with Rochester and Lehigh tied for second, and GW a distant third. I know that GW is in the process of building a new engineering and science facility–but engineering has never been their strong point. If you wanted to study politics–I’d say GW. But engineering, not so much. </p>
<p>Most engineering students I have known who have gone to College Park loved it and have done very well. While it is not as accessible to DC as GW is, it is right on the Metro so getting into the city is not a problem.</p>
<p>Rochester and Lehigh are great schools but they are in Rochester and Bethlehem respectively. Speaking personally, the choice for me would be easy.</p>
<p>I’d have said Either Lehigh or Rochester tied for first and Maryland a bit behind. Though Maryland’s engineering program may be higher ranked, I think that Lehigh and Rochester are each better schools overall. </p>
<p>I agree, that for engineering, I’d rate GW as 4th.</p>