How to decide on a college

Hello all. I recognize that college can be a great investment, or a costly waste of money. With that being said I am trying to decide on a college to attend this upcoming fall for computer engineering. My first choice is Iowa State, which will probably cost about 24k per year. I like the school but I am worried about not having as many opportunities due to its immense size. My next option is South Dakota School of Mines and Tech which would cost me about 12k per year. I’m worried about this school because it has 80% males and almost no social scene. My last option is the University of St. Thomas, which would cost about 28k per year. I think I would like this school the best but the cost scares me a little bit. I was hoping someone could give me advice about how to balance the cost of college with happiness and help me in making this huge decision

Thanks

ISU isn’t that huge, and is a solid choice academically. I’m not sure St Thomas would have more opportunities.