So I have a bit of a dilemma. I got in as a computer engineering major at U of I and MSU, and was admitted to the honors programs at both colleges. However, U of I comes out to about $30k, whereas MSU is $20k, and I am in the running for a full ride scholarship. I would rather go to U of I, but my parents would have a difficult time paying for it since I already have an older sibling in college. Also, I am highly considering going onto graduate school and getting a PhD. Is going to U of I and potentially having to take out loans worth it? I like U of I more overall, and it has a better reputation, but I think it may be worth going to MSU just because of the cost factor.
are you a michigan resident?
I don’t think it’s worth it. UI is top ranked now but I predict they will fall. I live in Illinois and the state is a mess. They haven’t had a budget for 2 years, and they haven’t given the public colleges the money they’re owed because of it. Some smaller schools are failing now. If UI doesn’t get funding, then the good professors will start getting poached and students as well. Tuition will continue to go up too. We visited the school and I just wasn’t overly impressed either. Nothing stood out as great. And they have a very superior attitude that you need them more than they need you. (It’s probably true, but no one likes to hear it!)
If U of I is UIUC…then it is not comparable, since UIUC has one of the strongest computer engineering programs in the country. Average salary last year after graduation was $85,000.
It’s true the state is a mess but they are not going to let the University fail. Plus the engineering department has a lot of private donors to keep it’s ranking high. I work for the University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago. The University has it’s own budget and actually HAS money…unlike the state. You should see all the renovations that are happening!