<p>My son has been admitted at UCB, Computer Science at CMU and the ISP as well as Engineering Honors program at Northwestern. Considerations: UCB - great faculty but with a massive student body, CMU - very reputable comp science course, small student population, NW ISP - accelerated multidisciplinary approach. My son also enjoys humanities, social studies and is quite active in the Model United Nation. </p>
<p>We are quite confused on how to proceed as each of these is a good option.</p>
<p>As far as Carnegie Mellon vs Berkeley goes, it would depend on both his mindset and his preference for concentration. The one thing I think is highly important to think about (for better or worse) with Berkeley is that it is very open minded to the point that it may offset some people. But if your son likes to meet many people from different idealogical backgrounds Berkeley is a fantastic option. I also liked Carnegie Mellon’s atmosphere as well, although I did matriculate to Berkeley. Carnegie was much smaller, but is also set in one of the major cities of America. I would attempt to contact both current students and professors and talk about both academics and life outside of the classroom.</p>