Hi, I am a senior from Virginia who is interested in Computer Science.
I was admitted into UVA, Ga Tech for computer science. I also received an admission from UC Berkeley but not in the EE/CS program (I was accepted in the Letters & Science school and would have to declare a CS major in two years, provided that my grades are high enough). A major problem I am facing is the cost of attendance… My parents haven’t saved up at all for my college, so I have to completely finance my education.
With that being said, I have visited all three campuses; I personally liked Ga Tech’s the best, Berkeley’s second, and lastly UVa’s (I don’t really vibe with the colonial feel for some reason). But I also think the opportunities (recruiting, reputation & value of the degree) are greater at Ga Tech and UC Berkeley.
How good is UVa’s CS program? I have many friends who attend and say it is good, but simultaneously, many people are also telling me that the recruiting isn’t that great.
My estimation of cost is that UC Berkeley will cost me about 59K per year, Ga Tech will cost me 48.5K, and UVA about 37K first for the first year.
Also, this may be completely unnecessary but I have a girlfriend that will attend UVA. I know that you guys may scoff this off as not important, but I have been with her for almost FOUR years now (all of high school, I know). We both want to do computer science and are very serious about each other (I love her lol). I am just wondering if I should factor her at all in my decision process at all because many people are telling me to separate school and personal life when making decisions.
Ultimately, I would really appreciate having input on what college I should go to. IMO Berkeley seems too far, but sometimes when I think about Cal the opportunities and the sheer Berkeley name make it seem unbeatable. Ga Tech is nice with its co-ops and excellent recruiting (they have an entire school dedicated to CS). But at the same time the schools are relatively expensive, which makes UVA on the table (although I personally do not LOVE the campus by any means) a great value pick. Anyways, where should I go? I am very confused, and it doesn’t make it any easier that May 1st is the due date for deposits for UVA and Ga Tech.
Thanks, guys so much…