<p>I was admitted into both the University of Maryland--College Park and Carnegie Mellon University for Computer Science. If I were to attend CMU, I would be taking on ~$100k in debt when I graduate and if I were to attend UMDCP, I would graduate debt-free. </p>
<p>As a prospective Computer Science Major, I realize that the prestige of CMU would open up many opportunities for me right after I graduate, and I am not as certain that these same opportunities would be available to me if I were to attend UMDCP. Though, I am unsure whether the difference between the Computer Science programs at CMU and UMDCP is worth the ~$100k in debt as I hear that the Computer Science program at UMDCP is also very strong--I just can't gauge how strong relative to CMU's. </p>
<p>Right now, I am leaning towards choosing to enroll at UMDCP for the next four years for financial reasons as it seems like the safer option, but a part of me is drawn to CMU because I would hate to look back one day and realize I passed up a tremendous educational opportunity. </p>
<p>Another thought to note is that I am confident that I would be able to earn better grades at UMDCP because I hear UMDCP's Computer Science curriculum isn't as rigorous as CMU's. How much would CMU's name compensate for a lower overall GPA when considering employment prospects or graduate school?</p>
<p>I would really appreciate any advice on deciding between these two schools. Thanks!</p>
<p>100k in debt is simply not manageable and 100% NOT worth it. There is no school in this country, or let alone the world, worth that much debt. 100k in loans is an absurd amount of debt which will cripple your fiances. 100k in loans will stay with your the rest of your adult life and could very easily end up ruining your ability to purchase a car or home, attend graduate school, etc.</p>
<p>I know, it sucks, but it’s the reality. Attend UMDCP; it’s the sane thing to do.</p>
<p>And remember: if you were smart enough to get into CMU, you’re going to be able to be successful wherever you go. Stand out, get good grades, network and fight for internships. You WILL be able to attend a good graduate school or get a good job without going to CMU. And all without 100k in debt.</p>
<p>Also, for graduate school, a high GPA is what matters. Someone with a 4.0 at a state flagship will always look better than 3.6 at an Ivy/top college.</p>
<p>U-Maryland’s computer science program is strong enough to be VERY well represented throughout all of the “beltway bandits” (read: defense contractors) in the MD/DC/VA area. CMU is good and all and responsible for the Software Engineering Institute BUT THEY ARE NOT WORTH $100k OF DEBT.</p>
<p>U-Maryland IS ranked pretty well in their graduate CS program so I cannot think their undergrad program would be too shabby. Besides, when you graduate, you will be working alongside other CS majors from state schools and more likely, your boss will hail from some state school.</p>