Help with college decision

<p>My kid was admitted into some universities. After some consideration, we kept UIUC and UMD. He wants to study engineering for his undergrad.
He was admitted into a non engineering program at UIUC, but into an engineering program at UMD. To help us with decision, we need more information. Please help with the following questions:
1. How open and friendly are the two colleges to outsiders?
2. How hard is it to transfer into engineering at UIUC?
3. What is the course workload like at the two colleges?
4. Do anyone know about the teaching effectiveness at the two engineering program? Some univ pays more attention to teaching even if they are well known for research.</p>

<p>I can only speak for College Park: This is a place where academics and fun meet at a common ground. You have fun learning, and you learn to enjoy every minute here.
The “party school” label does not describe our school properly. It is a Top research university with Top professors, many of them who can change your lives. We have tons of homework, but we manage to remain with both feet on the ground. We are happy to be a part of this community. We take pride in our school, truly love being at UMD.</p>