Vanderbilt versus University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

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<p>Illinoise:

While Vanderbilt may be more prestigious, Twin Cities does have the better computer science program. Normally, I’d go with prestige, but, since computer science jobs are growing so rapidly, I would stick with Twin Cities. After all, following your first job, the college you attended matters much less than your skills. In your scenario, I do not think prestige matters much, the better education should be favored. Given all of your credentials, I think Twin Cities is the right choice.

I fully agree with you! I am leaning strongly towards the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. I have a lot of internships and undergraduate research (as a high school student) that strengthen my resume besides my school.</p>

<p>MomofWildChild

To me it’s a no-brainer in favor of Vanderbilt! My God, get away from home and experience life in one of the most fun cities on a gorgeous campus with students from all over the place. Barron’s head is far up somewhere dark- so don’t put any stock in his post.
Broaden your horizons, unless none of the credits will transfer. The students at Vanderbilt (many of whom have lots of financial aid) are, for the most part, polite and nice. And they aren’t buried in snow 6 months a year.

I am all for broadening my horizons, but at what cost? My family is too wealthy for any type of financial aid, so the cost of Vanderbilt could be as high as a quarter-million dollars ($60,000 year x 4 years).</p>

<p>I have calculated that I can graduate at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities as early as 2015. With early graduation, in-state tuition, and a small academic scholarship, the cost of attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities could be as low as $40,000 ($20,000 x 2 years).</p>

<p>I have trouble believing that the Vanderbilt experience justifies the cost… especially when their Computer Science department is inferior to what is at home.</p>

<p>Some of the credits might transfer, but looking at Vanderbilt’s major requirements… it would still take at least three years to graduate. And finally, as a Minnesota native, I am not opposed to being buried in snow. :)</p>

<p>To everybody else:
I do not care whether or not Vanderbilt has rich kids, or its diversity (perceived or actual). Race and social class are not affecting my college decisions. It is all about the quality of the school, the quality of the department, and the cost of attending.</p>