Penn State vs. University of Tennessee Engineering

Hi. I have a small dilemma. I applied to Virginia Tech early decision, got deferred twice, and am now waitlisted. While I plan to wait for a decision, I may not find out until July, so I need a back-up plan. The two other schools I am considering are University of Tennessee (Knoxville-main campus) and Penn State (main campus). I would also consider University of Maryland (main campus), but I haven’t heard back yet, and I doubt I will be accepted. My major is biomedical engineering. The biggest thing I don’t like about UTK is how it is right in the city. I prefer schools like VT for the more rural atmosphere. I also like the “family-feel” that I’ve been told Penn State has. Mostly though, as far as biomedical engineering goes, which would be my best choice? Also, what are the chances of being admitted to VT off the waitlist? Any information you could give me on any level would be appreciated. Thanks!

At most schools the wait list is really a joke. Very few get off of it. VT is one of the exceptions. Last year about 1500 were wait listed and about half were accepted. The rank their wait list, so the better your stats, the better your chances. Good luck.