<p>Hi guys! About 3 months ago I was accepted to the EXCEL program and I know that they offer their students many benefits but I would really like to know how is the program and what are your opinions about it.
I am currently struggling between UF and UCF (with EXCEL) and I don't know which one to choose. My major is Industrial Engineering. Have any of you have been in a similar situation like mine? If yes which university did you choose and why? </p>
<p>I would be very grateful to hear what you have to said :D</p>
<p>My son is an sophmore at UCF (Civil/Structural engineering) and participates in Excel. He says it’s the best thing he ever did. He’s a pretty serious student, bright, but has to work very hard to stay above 3.0 - UCF engineering is challenging. He is currently participating in undergrad research through Excel and says it’s a great opportunity and believes he’ll be able to continue next year with his PhD sponsor. The excel advising team also kept a very close eye on their students (as far as grades go) during freshman year. Many of the Excel students didn’t go on to research as sophmores (you have to have a 3.0 UCF gpa to participate). </p>
<p>My HS senior son was accepted to the Compass program at UCF for the fall (if he attends UCF…still deciding between FSU and UCF). Excel is just one of the differentiating opportunities vs. UF. Obviously UF has incredible rankings, etc. but I don’t believe my sons would have had research opportunities so early on (as sophmores) at UF. Both my sons were denied from UF, so maybe I’m biased (I’m also a UCF Alumna), but I believe UCF has treated them like they WANT them, which can be important. </p>
<p>The biggest thing as an engineering student is to understand that distractions can be deadly. My son understands he has to work a lot harder than alot of his friends in some of the other majors. Campus life can be a BIG distraction so time management and discipline is key. If you have this and are driven you will do great. Good luck.</p>