So my choice for next year is between UMass Amherst and RPI, and after visiting both schools I am honestly 50/50.
I am majoring in computer and systems engineering, and I know that RPI is higher in the rankings but I don’t want to make a decision based on a rank you know, but if anyone can tell me how RPI’s engineering is completely superior, go ahead.
I know that RP has more opportunities for internships/research/coop, but everyone also says that college is what you make it, therefore I could get plenty at UMass, right?
My main concern with RPI is the cost. RPI’s net price is 40k, which is more than doubled that of UMass Amherst, 17k. I am certainly no fan of huge amounts of debt, but some people say it’s fine for STEM majors since we’re basically guaranteed high paying jobs, any thoughts?
Another concern I have with RPI is the social life. RPI is sorta infamous from what I’ve heard for being rather socially cold, like I have heard plenty about “campus life is just League of Legends”, the 70-30 gender ration, etc
I am aware that UMass is known for parties, and while I am not big time into parties and frats, I do want to have some “college experience” and feel like I am not just surrounded by hardcore gamers (don’t want to be surrounded by hardcore frat guys as well though)
And btw I have asked some friends and teachers where they think I should go, and I got mixed answers…
So what do you guys think?
Ps. Don’t say “choose which ever one you feel more like home” or “go with your gut” cause that doesn’t help lol
I am a big fan of going to private schools over public when possible because more often than not the resources are superior at privates (and especially at schools of RPI’s caliber), but I am an even bigger fan of not going into debt. $92k more for RPI? I don’t think it’s worth that much, especially since you’re on the fence. UMass is a great school in a wonderful college area.
The plural of anecdote is not data, but the only kids I currently know at UMass Amherst (be they my friends’ kids or my D’s friends) are brainy and not big party scene people. It’s a fine school, and you can’t beat the in-state tuition vs RPI.
On a visit to SUNY New Paltz last summer, a student who was our waiter at a restaurant, upon hearing we were from Massachusetts, said “UMass Amherst was my dream school, but I couldn’t justify the out-of-state tuition.” Perspective!
So here’s what I think: follow the money. You’ll get a great education at UMass Amherst – and don’t forget the Five Colleges Consortium! Also do you have a shot at the Honors College?
@madgemini4 So what advantages does the five colleges consortium have for engineers? From what I’ve heard the other colleges are all for liberal arts, and while I do love philosophy and politics, I do want to prioritize engineering.
I didn’t get into the Honors College, but I will apply if I go there and from what I’ve heard it is “easy” to get into the honors college if you have good grades.
We are in a similar position, deciding between these two schools for ISE. I think RPI seems like a more organized, better program. My son did get into the honors program at UMass (we are out of state but he did get some scholarship money at both schools that made them basically equal in cost). But, I he likes the diversity better at UMass and the opportunities outside of academics that a large school offers. Not so much parties as just school spirit ect. Also, he liked the honors program offerings.Super tough decision. We are really looking to hear that UMass has an equally excellent engineering program (internships/coops/career placement).
@CrazePhil I honestly don’t know about engineering opportunities that the Five College Consortium would offer (if even any). But the consortium is a unique opportunity to participate in classes at elite private LACs at a state school price tag.
Edited to add – most likely you’d choose an elective or two at one of these colleges, perhaps something that would “round out” your focused engineering curriculum. Also might provide the chance to expand your social circle.
I usually point to RPI. But in this case I think it’s The University of Massachusetts - Amherst. It’s a rising star in the public flagship category. In a lot of areas not just engineering. But it’s had a very strong stem presence for years. Sports Management and Isenberg school are extremely well thought of. Just indicating the smart kids on campus with you. And I believe the party scene is a bit of thing of the past. But it’s always going to seem like a party school with Amherst right next door.
And it was good enough for jack Welch to become the star CEO of GE. I think they hire a few engineers each year.
