<p>I am trying to gather opinions to help my brother out. Out of the schools he got into, he has pretty much narrowed it down to these three: Southern Methodist University, University of Denver, and Seattle University. </p>
<p>He applied as a Computer Engineer, though he is now thinking he may want to switch to some other engineering (and maybe even not doing engineering at all), though it is all still really up in the air. He is from Southern California. All 3 will cost around the same price range. SMU would be the most expensive, but it isn't much more than the other 2 and my parents said they could afford it, so cost wouldn't really be much of a factor. He would probably want to go on to get a Master's. His personality is pretty laid back.</p>
<p>How are the areas around each of the schools? What is the social life like? How friendly are the students/staff? How diverse are each of the campuses? Which would offer good internship/job opportunity? Which is the most well known (in engineering)? Which do you feel would provide the best overall experience?</p>
<p>I think SMU would be the most "prestigious," but my brother is concerned about the SMU stereotype and fitting in. I have read many times that most people can fit in, and though some people would fit the "SMU stereotype" most wouldn't, though I know that hasn't really assuaged my brothers concerns.</p>
<p>Thanks in advance for your opinions. Just trying to weigh the pros and cons for each.</p>
<p>Interesting choices. All three excellent schools. SMU is better known nationally and has superb sports. Beautiful campus. UDenver is private and a very good and highly respected school in the Mountain region states. Seattle U is perhaps one of the most underrated and underappreciated schools I know of. Its one of the 28 Jesuit colleges in the United States…a very big plus in my books. Its an urban campus, but still a campus with Japanese gardens, a gorgeous post modern and award winning Chapel. Its Catholic obviously but many non Catholics go there. It has a high percentage of resident students but also a lot of commuters…but that isnt bad…since the commuters spend most of their time on campus anyway. As a city, Seattle is right up there in the best of the best for world class opportunities and entertainment. Engineering is one of SU’s strengths btw. They have sports and have returned to Division 1 play in recent years.<br>
They have that famous Jesuit core…and that will challenge you and broaden your perspective, giving you a powerful tool for job hunting as well as a life tool to utilize. SU has some famous alumni as well…including some four star Generals. </p>
<p>I am biased, admittedly, towards Jesuit schools. SMU is going to be quite conservative. UDenver I think is a healthy mix of views. SU is moderate to liberal, if that helps any. I know what I would do in that situation. But that is me, not you or your brother. </p>
<p>Seattle U will have very small and intimate classes where professors do their own work…not TA’s, and will know you by name…and become powerful mentors. Its hugely respected in the Northwest, and ranks number 6 in USNWR for Western Schools. They have a huge contingent of Seattle U alumni in California. </p>
<p>You see where I am going with this? But its his decision and he can’t go wrong with any of his choices. Good luck.</p>
<p>Thanks for the opinion and insight especially about SU. He is visiting the campus today, DU tomorrow, and SMU next weekend so that should help too.</p>
<p>Thanks for the bump.</p>