<p>My son was just accepted to SCU with a sizeable scholarship and grant package ($36k). We have visited and it seems like a good size and vibe for him. It was one of his top choices, though not much of a reach for him. He also got in to Tulane (less scholarship money but still good). We are from Massachusetts so Santa Clara is not very well-known around here. Wondered what it's reputation is in California? He is unsure of his major, probably math/computer science.</p>
<p>SCU has a solid reputation and its proximity to Silicon Valley makes it attractive recruiting grounds for lots of tech companies. CS and most Engineering disciplines are very strong. For many, it is an attractive alternative to a massive UC campus. I believe US News just ranked it #2 Regional U in the West. As with any scholarship, be sure you understand the conditions your son must meet to keep it in place all 4 years. (min GPA, etc). </p>
<p>The weather is a lot nicer than Tulane - or anywhere in Massachusetts. </p>
<p>Dd was accepted into Santa Clara. She also received a similar amount, but the UC’s ended up being less expensive for us after comparing out of pocket costs. Good school overall. It does have “sponsorship” of the Catholic Church, FYI.</p>
<p>Thanks NCal and Aunt Bea for your comments. They are really helpful. It is sometimes hard to separate the marketing from the reality. He has also talked to more people who have attended and he is getting pretty excited about it. </p>
<p>The fact that it is a Jesuit school is a plus for us. I went to a Jesuit college, too, and like the approach, We we are not Catholic, but I don’t see that as an issue.</p>
Congratulations to your son. Santa Clara has an excellent reputation for everything – academics are solid, excellent internship placements in Silicon Valley. I know many current and former students there, several of my sons’ high school classmates chose Santa Clara.