<p>mike: I think you could simplify your search considerably:</p>
<p>1) Does your $15 K scholarship to RPI mean that you are accepted there already? If so, you probably already have your best bet from an academic standpoint in the bag. As for what kind of school it is, certainly it's not like a large State U or LAC- there are naturally more engineering geeks present than at most places (I can say things like "geek" because I am one). It is also VERY diverse (international) and pretty intense. I think there is a lot to do on campus, although most RPI students, both past and present, who I know really haven't expressed much interest in the campus scene, but have tended to live their lives off-campus. RPI's immediate surroundings in the city of Troy are kind of rummy, but really there are quite a few places to go in downtown Troy, as well as Albany and the metro region around it, for amusement and relaxtion if you are so inclined.</p>
<p>2) If you prefer a large State U., SUNY Buffalo may be great for you. I don't know if I agree with other posters that it is a reach, I think you have a very good chance of getting in. The campus there is on the impersonal side, and actually getting into the city of Buffalo from Amherst, the suburb where the campus is, can be difficult without a car because the campus is somewhat isolated. The buildings are nice but the whole effect is more like an office park than what you would think of as a traditional campus. everyone I know who went there for engineering has liked the school and for the most part, the experience, although you will need to take care of yourself in terms of class registration, getting your work done, etc.: no hand-holding, but a good reputation for engineering.</p>
<p>3) Add RIT for a medium-sized option, also a comprehensive school with a lot of things going on. Probably a slight reach for you.</p>
<p>4) You may have good reasons, but you also have left Clarkson U. off your list. I beleive you could get in there and it would be a good choice for someone with your stats who would like a smaller school. I know lots of people who went there also, and for some reason most of them liked it. To be frank though it wouldn't be for me due to the small-town setting and rather grim and isolated location. Those interested in a social life oftentimes head for SUNY Potsdam which is about a 2-minute drive (10-minute walk) away. It is a solid engineering school </p>
<p>5) If you really like Northeastern's location and you don't need a "traditional" campus setting, by all means apply. It is probably a reach for you but not an outrageous one and it would be good to add to your mix of applications. Also a solid engineering school, no doubt about it, with a great Coop program, although these days it is very desirable (and selective), in my opinion, more for its location than for truly stand-out academics. </p>
<p>So, these are five possibilities that cover a pretty good range of options for you. Again, assuming you already have RPI in the bag and can afford it (including your scholarship), you are completely safe and also should have at least one or two additional options to look at when you have to choose.</p>