<p>Regarding graduation rates, it appears that these are usually noted as calendar years, rather than graduating in 8 semesters or 12 quarters of school.</p>
<p>The distinction is important since in some schools, it is common for (usually engineering) students to take a semester or quarter off to do a co-op job. Such students are unlikely to graduate in 4 calendar years, even though they may eventually graduate after spending 8 semesters or 12 quarters actually in school, with some semesters at one or more co-op jobs mixed in. (For example, consider Northeastern University – its 4 (calendar) year graduation rate is something like 1% because just about every student does co-op jobs.)</p>
<p>Can’t help with the decision; it’s always a tough choice and I believe that the student should make it (within family financial parameters). As Neonzeus says, Villanova is very, very different from UCONN. My son is a current freshman at Villanova and is one of those who “just loves it” and did from the first visit. UConn was his financial safety, but I don’t think he ever really considered attending. Too rural, too much of a party school. I have heard though, that the Honors program is great. Even with no experience with VT, I’d be inclined to choose the instate school. Not sure UConn is worth the OOS cost; and Villanova is pricey as well.</p>
<p>I will be attending UConn as an out of state freshman. I say UCONN :)</p>