So, I’ve looked into Purdue and VT, and those colleges seem to be the top colleges I’ll want to attend. I’m only a junior, but those two schools have really looked the best overall. On previous posts, I’ve asked whether or not I could be accepted into either one, and it appears I’m a fairly good match, according to the replies. So, I’m not curious about getting in. What I am curious about is which one would I like better, provide the best outcome, etc. After college, I plan on serving a few years in the Air Force as an engineer; I’m hoping I can pick up an AFROTC scholarship of some sorts. At VT, I actually would join the Corps of Cadets (plus AFROTC within the VTCC). At Purdue, I would enroll in AFROTC as a class. At both colleges, I would study electrical engineering. Here’s what I’d call my ideal college experience (in no particular order):
- The college, politically, is fairly moderate. Both sides are present, equal in exposure (I ruled out Texas A&M because of this one)
- The college has a nice, clean campus, admirable architecture, and a welcoming feel.
- Although somewhat of an arbitrary factor, prestige is present; i.e., I could get into a good grad school or job after the Air Force. The alumni base is very noteworthy, and the professors are quite proficient and renowned in education circles.
- Obviously, overall academics are outstanding.
- I don't really plan on partying in college; I'd rather get to know people and just hang out with my friends. I don't think I'll drink or do any of that stuff. I also know I will study A LOT, but that's just a consequence of engineering.
- The college does a very nice amount of research, especially in STEM disciplines that were once thought of as science fiction (I'm a nerd, I know, which brings me to my next point...)
- Football and sports really aren't the whole focus of the college. Sure, I'll go to games, support the team, but I don't really care who wins or loses. Basically, the school focuses on being a school and not an athletic paradise.
- The girls are pretty, nice, and modest. I'm not really into the hook-up culture.
- The school makes me feel like a part of something much bigger than myself; I feel like it's forward-thinking in developing college graduates and respectable alumni.
- The school will offer the most aid out-of-state.
- And lastly, the college, its students, and the professors would be the most welcoming and accepting. I can make lifelong friends
So, yeah, there’s my list that’ll make or break VT or Purdue. Which of the two colleges is better at displaying these attributes?