<p>Can't decide between computer science at Indiana U with 75% covered, Purdue with 50% covered. There is also 95% covered at IUPUI the two schools combined in Indy which is mostly a commuter college although I can stay in two bedroom apartment (not a dorm) as part of their Honors school and still earn a Purdue degree. It would not be a classic college experience, but I don't see myself too involved in much of that. Computer science and a math degree with masters to follow immediately will keep me busy.</p>
<p>Everyone says Purdue is a no brainer for computer science and engineering, however IU's program is a hidden gem from an academic view, but the reputation doesn't have the clout. But wow what a campus, and the computer science program school feels like a small school inside a big one. My dad has five emails from recruiters and folks in the IT field who say what you do in school and co-op matter more. And that's what even puts IUPUI in the game is that they have great co-op opportunties withing walking distance right downtown. It's one of the cleanest, safest urban areas in the country for it's size.</p>
<p>I keep thinking this is so hard because I'm trying to be financially responsible, but all scenarios have compelling merit. AGGHHH </p>
<p>After looking at this I have to admit writing it is helpful. If I am honest, the worst case (if income goes up and aid disapears), Purdue would be 38k in loans/out of pocket, and IU would be 22k in loans/out of pocket, so I can sense that Purdue would be my first choice if no cost were involved.</p>
<p>Any insights are greatly appreciated. CC has already made me very comfortable crossing my first choice (cost) and 3 others off the list.</p>
<p>btw, I have a friend who wants to room with me at Purdue. Is that a good or bad idea? We are both good folk - no trouble in high school.</p>
<p>Cheaper, better campus, better town, better looking co-eds, more co-eds, better school colors versus better rep and facilities in your major. So you have a lot riding on the chance that you will still with your major. Many do not.</p>
<p>^^^ “It would not be a classic college experience, but I don’t see myself too involved in much of that.”</p>
<p>Get involved in much of that. Computer science and math majors need to be able to work with people, lead groups, and display an understand of their work in the context of a well-rounded life. Without that, you’ll wind up in a limited job working for a CS/Math person who has those skills. And much of the technology that you learn in CS will only have a shelf life of a couple of years anyway. You need the whole package.</p>
<p>IU would appear to be a great choice to me, both financially and as the whole college package. Also, bear in mind that living with someone is a different experience from being their friend. Many friendships which turn into roommates don’t survive the experience.</p>
<p>I agree IU is a great choice. Also, keep in mind that in college people change and find themselves in places they never would have thought of which is what makes college such a wonderful experience.</p>
<p>Thanks to all for replying. I understand that I will have to move out of my comfort zone in some areas. I am not a shy person. I have leadership positions as an Eagle Scout and member of two other Scout leadership organizations. I lead a team in most of my computer classes, and have volunteered 500 hours since 7th grade. It’s just that a lot of the stuff they promoted on the college presentations did not excite me. By way of example, I’ve been to one sport event as a spectator, and I found it an odd use of time. I think it is genuinely great that others find enjoyment in it, but I would rather be doing something constructive. The school pep rallys are almost painful to sit through. Again, great fun for many, but I just don’t understand it at some fundamental level.</p>
<p>The nice thing about going to a university that isn’t tiny is that there will be people with all sorts of interests on campus, and all sorts of activities. No need to go to sports events if those aren’t your thing. You’ll find plenty of other stuff to focus on. </p>
<p>That said, if you know that the entire social life at some school revolves around their football team and their frat scene, then that school probably isn’t for you. </p>
<p>I’d rather you not go to the commuter school. As others said, and I can tell you as someone who hires folks in your field, if you can get involved in campus activities of whatever sort, and take on some leadership roles on campus, that’s going to make you look much more appealing to employers than someone who did nothing but study, even if that studier’s grades are higher than yours are. Being able to find “techies” who also have demonstrated evidence of interpersonal skills is golden. Go to a campus that is a full campus, not a commuter campus, so that you have opportunities to get involved with the activities that you like, and really do something in some of them. </p>
<p>It doesn’t matter which activities you participate in. You could tutor, or volunteer, or heck, lead the role playing game club. It’s all good. It needn’t be sports. </p>
<p>Although Purdue does have the big name in your field, IU is a solid overall university. In your field, the fact that IU ranks lower in your field won’t hurt you re: employment. Just make sure you do well there, should you chose to go there, and that you do internships/co-ops and other real-world career related work experiences to build a resume while you study. You’ll be fine re: employment or grad school no matter which school you pick: IU or Purdue. So pick the one that suits you best, and do consider the financial aid packages as part of that decision.</p>
<p>Be fiscally responsible… set an example for all the morons in this country who view credit as “free” money… it is NOT free,and it is forever. Student loan obligations, unlike most debt, are specifically NOT ever forgiven even in bankruptcy settlement.</p>