I’m currently a high school senior with approx 2 months to decide which college to admit to. I’ve been accepted to both Pitt and PSU with no merit/financial scholarships. I’ve had my heart set on Industrial Engineering for a long time, and I had my heart set on Pitt for a long time although I was never 100% sure, because I didn’t know much about Penn state. I’ve always thought of it as a fun school but I figured Pitt would be better for me academically. I’ve visited Pitt many times and PSU only once, but when I visited PSU, my previously negative outlook on the school completely changed when I realized how high the IE rankings there is. Now I have no idea what to do. Please give me your outlook, but first here are some things to consider about myself:
I’m a female in engineering, but at the same time, I think more like a guy in some ways, including the fact that I’m more left brained
I want to do club track and field. I’m pretty decent for my team, but I’m afraid I’ll be out-shined and not be able to be on the travel team at PSU
My sister lives in Pittsburgh and she’s convinced that there is more connections with church groups that I could join since its in the city
I know some guys that have went to Penn state and turned into complete jerks, (although they also joined a frat) and I don’t want to be surrounded by people who aren’t genuine/friendly
I’m not at all the nerdy type and I got more of the vibe that engineers at PSU tended to be more social and out-going
I visited a friend up at Penn State for Halloween weekend last year and loved the atmosphere. But at the same time, I’m afraid I’ll get too distracted if I go there
You have to maintain a 3.0 GPA at PSU to stay in your engineering program and although I’m ranked 3/250 at my high school, I don’t know how hard it is to keep that GPA
I also want to do a Co-op rather than an internship, and I want to know the ranking on job placement after graduating, especially with co-op experience
I’m afraid to get lost in the shuffle, and I’m the type of learner who needs to ask a lot of questions. Are the professors there happy to help you/spend time to explain things to you if you need it
I like the college town feel a lot better, but I’ve stayed the night at Squirrel Hill in Pittsburgh before and I loved the city itself!
I’m sorry for the long list, but I really need help deciding. I’ve done countless research and I think in the end, Pitt seems like the “safe choice” but something in my gut really wants me to go to Penn State. Please give me your outlook/opinions