Narrowed down to these two. I’m looking to study Chemical Engineering/Materials Science/maybe Mech E or pure Chemistry. So not 100% sure. I know the PS program gives a lot of access to faculty and all, but I know that the UCB Chemistry college is really fantastic. GT is nearly free monetarily, but Berkeley is still affordable. Struggling a lot with the decision. If I’m interested in getting funding for starting academic organizations on campus, or am looking for internships and all, which would give me an edge? I’m not particularly interested in the oil applications of ChemE, and am looking to likely be in California (SD or SF) in the future (or to go to graduate school).
Bump
I don’t know anything about Berkeley. All I can tell you is one of the reasons that kids pick GT is that they have a really good chance of doing a co-op or internship. They also can be involved in research. DS has been doing research and has a co-op and I believe those two things it will make a difference when he graduates. Unless you can find something extra special about Berkeley I would choose GT especially since it’s less expensive.
The PS program is amazing! I’m unfortunately not a part of it, but it covers your tuition, gives you automatic acceptance to GC or HP, and provides you with funding for a research project/something similar you might choose to do.
As a first year Tech student in materials science & engineering, I got an internship at a major company. That’s not ridiculously uncommon! Lots of people get both internships and co-ops. You can also start research or become a leader in a club as a freshman.
A bit of a pull for MSE - the department is so good. It’s a small program, so people in the administration will know you by name even while you’re a freshman. They respond to your emails, give you free t-shirts and frisbees (small perk), and send out emails with internship/co-op/corporate visit opportunities almost daily. Unfortunately, I know my friends in other majors don’t have this sort of administration.
I would 100% recommend attending Georgia Tech! It’ such a great school with so many opportunities that you can capitalize upon, even as a freshman.