<p>As stated earlier, U of Rochester might be a good fit as a fairly well rounded medium sized university.</p>
<p>If your son likes a larger campus such as Penn State, you might want to check out other Big 10 schools. Many have strong engineering programs also.</p>
<p>Son thinks U of R and RIT are too close to home...but he has a girlfriend, so we'll see how he feels about it next year! :)</p>
<p>I understand your reluctance to visit campuses in the summer. But I think it's ok for big state universities, since they have summer sessions that are very like any other term (except for varsity sports, of course). The classes themselves are not that different. More of the faculty are on leave, but in those places undergrads won't be that close to faculty.</p>
<p>RPI has a lot to recommend it. I will not be the least disappointed if my son goes there. I think he could easily manipulate the curriculum to get what he wants, and the faculty is exceptionally committed.</p>
<p>Best wishes to Weenie's son!</p>
<p>Thanks wyogal, and good point about the bigger schools and summer. I had sort of forgotten about that. </p>
<p>What other schools is your son considering?</p>
<p>My son will most likely wind up at UChicago. He wants the core. ;) But he also applied to Pomona, Reed, and Carleton besides RPI.</p>
<p>But I second the notion of Case Western. They have a solid engineering program and are across the street from the best symphony orchestra in the US. JMO, folks! They have plenty of music there. They also have a merit aid program. The biggest drawback in my mind is the weather: it is usually overcast in Cleveland, and if you have SADD it can be unbearable.</p>
<p>Even though I am a graduate of RPI, physics/science/architecture oriented D was impressed with the school and campus. D toured 8 northeast schools and ranked RPI 2 or 3. Believe me we seldom see eye to eye on issues so this does mean something. I was impressed with the improvements to the school over the last 25 years. Would be happy to discuss specifics and answer any questions.</p>
<p>weenie</p>
<p>Both University of Rochester and RPI offer scholarships to juniors. It seems like an easy process (fill out a form and/or have the GC make a rec). If your son is at all considering these schools, I would look into it! Deadline for U of R is 2/28.</p>