WashU or Columbia for Engineering?

<p>Little sib is considering WashU or Columbia (Fu). He says he's thinking about physics/premed/engineering majors (though imo its possible that he may end up doing something completely different). FA was pretty much the same for both schools and the kid doesn't seem to have a strong preference. Parents and I have somewhat different perspectives on the caliber of WashU for sciences/engineering. I remember it being pretty solid and more nurturing than other top tier schools, while Mom has heard not so great things. I know, might seem like a no-brainer, but... thoughts? Thanks.</p>