<p>I am really split between university of illinois and rice. I understand that both are good options but they would give me fairly distinctive college experiences, and I'm not exactly sure on the kind of experience I would like.</p>
<p>I want to either go for a doctorate or go into finance, but probably not an engineering job. I would be studying engineering physics and uiuc (for the prestige) but straight up physics at rice.</p>
<p>What offers me better options in both of these carreer paths(or even in case I decide to switch, although it would be to a mathematically based area). Also, how does the size of uiuc undergraduate research compare with the personalization of rice research?</p>
<p>Finally, many of my friends will go to uiuc so it is a comfortable environment. Rice from a social perspective is quite scary because it has a very different social scene than u of i, so any commentary on that would be helpful.</p>
<p>First off, either of your options will provide you with a solid career options. At both schools, the engineering/science areas are extremely said. That being said, Rice will offer a definite advantage as far as research opportunities go. It is very easy for Rice students to gain research positions while it is a little more difficult at Illinois. Furthermore, Rice is more prestigious which should help in grad school placement along with employment (unless you are planning to stay in the Chicago area). The two schools are very different as far as the academic environment. At UI, you will generally be in much larger lecture based classes whereas there is much more individual attention at a school like Rice. Some people prefer each environment, so it comes down to personal preference.
Also, the social environments are very different. UI is the traditional state school college experience where you are kind of on your own and it is possible to get lost. On the other hand, Rice has the benefit of a personalized college experience where you are a part of a very tight, close-knit community (the residential college system). UI may be comfortable but if you go to Rice, you will have the opportunity to expand your social network and meet a whole new group of friends. You’ll make amazing friends at any college you go to, so I wouldn’t worry about that.</p>
<p>Rice hands down. You’ll have much better opportunities in finance coming out of Rice than Illinois if you’re an engineering/science major. Also, Rice is much more prestigious (but I wouldn’t use that as a determining factor)</p>