UVA vs. RPI - electrical engineering

College Majors Engineering Majors
1

<p>Hi all, I'm in a dilemma. </p>

<p>I've been admitted to UVA and RPI for EE this fall and I don't know which way to go. Here's the background.</p>

<p>I'm pursuing my second bachelor's degree. After my BA and several years working, I realized that my career goal was actually to become an engineer. Of course, I couldn't jump into a Master's program with a liberal arts background, so I picked schools where my undergrad credit would transfer, took every class that would count at a local community college, and when I return, it should only take me two years to graduate. BUT, since I already hold a degree, I am ineligible for federal grants and most scholarships. I do not have any financial resources at my disposal, and I am independent, so my parents will not be funding this. It's going to be expensive.</p>

<p>Here's where I'm stuck.</p>

<p>RPI is the more highly regarded of the two engineering schools. I like it better, too - the student body, the size, the program options, the helpfulness of the faculty, and they have an excellent co-op and internship program. It would also be near my boyfriend and best friend - not to be understated. Being happy and sane while in school means being near people I love.
UVA I'm not overly enthused about. I don't like the size of the campus, the culture of the student body in general, and their engineering program, while very good, just doesn't seem like it would open as many doors as RPI. But, I am in-state.
RPI will set me back $62,000 in debt all told, after institutional grants, etc.
UVA will set me back $36,000. </p>

<p>That's a HUGE difference in debt.</p>

<p>Is $26,000 extra worth it, in your opinion?</p>

2

<p>Honestly, I think you know what you want. The most important thing is to pursue what will make YOU the happiest, not what others say. I’m an upcoming senior at RPI in AeroE. I know our EE program is very good and all the EE graduates I know have jobs. 26K is a lot of money, but in the long scheme of things, pursue the decision that seems a better fit for you. If you’re not crazy about UVA (besides the money), you’re probably not going to have a good time…and believe me, in an engineering degree you need to make sure you like your surroundings because the curriculum can be draining at times</p>

3

<p>Choose the option that you believe will bring you happiness. But keep in mind that two years isn’t a very long time. Don’t delude yourself about the consequences of excessive debt.</p>

<p>You know that RPI’s reputation is top notch, but you would have to reach out and make connections no matter which engineering college you attend. Plus, the overall quality of the University of Virginia will be a benefit to you as a job seeker. Good luck.</p>

4

<p>My grandfather has a BSEE from RPI. He and all his RPI friends have made a habit of hiring and recruiting from RPI…even the patent lawyers!</p>

<p>I’m looking there for business. I like the people. </p>

<p>It’s a chunk of change, but as you said, if you will be happier…
Just plan NOW for the debt.</p>

5

<p>Thanks all for your input! </p>

<p>I was able to work with RPI to get a little extra in grants, so it will now set me back about $50,000. It’s still more than UVA, but I’m in debt either way. LakeWashington, you’re absolutely right about the debt, and it is scary, especially in this economy - there are no guaranteed jobs, even in engineering. It’s something I am absolutely not taking lightly. </p>

<p>You touched on another reservation I had about RPI - it does not have the name recognition of UVA. it seems like people in the engineering field know it and regard it highly (as do the national rankings), but most other people I tell about it say, “oh, yeah, I’ve heard of Rochester [sic]” UVA may not be as strong in technical fields, but EVERYONE knows it. (On the other hand, I’m also going to be job seeking with a William & Mary degree in my pocket, so I may be okay.)</p>

<p>I did end up going with RPI, mostly for the following reasons:</p>

<ul>
<li>the admissions and financial aid offices at RPI were really responsive and helpful; I had a bad experience with UVA’s. (As did a few of my friends there - apparently it’s systemic.)</li>
<li>I looked into job placement, and while RPI and UVA both do well, my priority is undergraduate research experience and admission to a top graduate program to do research and design work. RPI seems to be better in that area. UVA’s placements tend to be highly paid, but outside traditional engineering fields, with a focus in management consulting.<br></li>
<li>RPI’s curriculum allows for a double in applied physics, which I want to do - this is not available at UVA.</li>
</ul>

<p>I do think I’ll be happier at RPI, but that ended up being a secondary consideration. Less debt would also make me happier. I think RPI will work better for me in the long run, though.</p>