USC vs Northwestern Engineering (International Student)

I have been accepted to both schools, Viterbi and McCormick, and I am struggling with my decision (as May 1st approaches I only get more confused). Last week I visited both campus on the admitted students day. The events were great and assured me that making the final decision was going to be tough.

As an international student (from Brazil) I am really concerned about the weather in NU, I am afraid I won’t be able to enjoy the campus outdoor area and end up frustrated with my college experience. However, NU surely has more international prestige and a great industrial engineering program (ranked #4 according to US News). Being able to “design your own engineering major” is another big attractive. I also look forward to the possibility of double majoring in economics, a certificate in entrepreneurship or just taking some classes at Kellog. After talking to other Brazilians that study at NU I understood dealing with the weather is doable, but I still think it would be pretty harsh.

USC’s climate would surely be better for people from tropical countries (such as Brazil). Although I am not completely sure about USC’s reputation worldwide (and inside the US) it is probably “worst” than NU’s. USC Industrial and Systems engineering major is also really strong (even though usually ranked below NU’s) and there is a possibility of choosing a C.S. track or a Information Systems emphasis within the major, which seems really cool. Moreover I heard they plan on creating a minor (or even major if it works) in sports analytics which is one of my biggest interests.

Any ideas on how to decide?

It seems like your biggest reason for not going to NU is weather. Don’t focus on that minor detail. Since you visited, I’m sure you noticed the campus is right on the lake and in the Spring and Early fall, it is gorgeous outside. NU certainly has a better brand name than USC, but don’t let that factor into your decision making. It seems like you are trying to talk yourself into USC. Go to NU.