Hey guys, I’m really stuck between these two schools and am asking for some advice. Money is not an issue for me, nor are the areas (I’m fine with Suburban Easton and live just north of Boston). I’m either going for a major in Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering and am wondering what you guys think is the best choice for me. I feel like I will fit in fine socially wherever I am, and don’t mind the size of either school. For me it really boils down to which will give me the best education and give me the best opportunities. Thank you for your help.
Do you prefer a traditional, smaller campus or an urban setting with a non-traditional college experience? Co-ops are Northeastern’s thing, it makes for a different experience - kids will be gone for semesters, it may take longer to graduate.
I think both will get you a good education, you need to decide which experience you want.
I can vouch for Lafayette’s engineering programs. I went on a campus tour once, and the tour guide was a senior going into electrical engineering. She was very passionate about both Lafayette and electrical engineering and seemed to love the engineering programs there. Good luck wherever you choose!
Honestly, I suspect these will be similar. The difference here is in fit/environment, not quality.
Arguably Northeastern’s co-op program will help you get more experience while in school, but Lafayette’s program won’t shut any doors postgrad by any means.
I don’t think either choice is clearly better. I know a civil engineer who graduated from Lafayette and was very positive about the level of instruction there. He went to Ohio State for grad school. I know a current N.U student (CS) who is loving her time at NU and the co-op program. Big difference in the size and location of the schools, although you could travel to NY or Philly if you want to get out of Easton. Good luck either way.
I agree with @NJWrestlingmom that it really boils down to what type of college expereince you are looking for — do you want a suburban LAC or an urban co-op based college? There is no right or wrong answer – just personal preference.
FWIW my D went to Lafayette (not an engineer) and had a fantastic experience so if you have any questions a mom can answer feel free to ask.