<p>I’m not so sure about the CS - I think I may just go for Computer Engineering and get the best of both worlds as far as EE and CS are concerned. Carnegie Mellon does look attractive though. I will do some research on the schools you mentioned. Speaking of that, does anyone have any suggestions for informative websites when researching universities? I find that the university’s actual webpage is often quite vague and uninformative.</p>
<p>I’m not too sure how to play the hardship card without giving off the “pity me” vibe. Without sounding presumptuous, I feel I have dealt with more than average amount. My parents got divorced when I was young. I was sent to live with my mom, and she has been addicted to drugs since I was little. I moved to live with my dad in Oklahoma after 8th grade, but he died when I was 16. I live with my grandparents now, and their only source of income is social security benefits. I am actually able to dress well and own a few nice things because my grandparents saved well, but they definitely don’t have the financial security to fund an undergraduate education. In a nutshell, that is my situation.</p>
<p>EDIT: Thanks for the words of encouragement. I just know how crazy college admissions can really be. I also am fearful that in the search for prestige I may overlook a university I could truly be happy at.</p>