I’m set on doing Electrical Engineering. I need some thoughts on which college I should attend. The big argument is coming down to finances. My family is pretty comfortable affording 50k per year, but these are the following offers:
UIUC for $63k/yr
Purdue for $45k/yr
Rutgers HC for $17k/yr
Out of UIUC and Purdue, I’m leaning towards Purdue as it is more affordable with similar programs. However, between Purdue and Rutgers HC is difficult as I would be 132k more for a BS degree (I also intend to get an MS or MBA). I have heard that many employers don’t care which university you studied at for engineering, but rather what your skillset is and what work you have done there. I feel that I may have better opportunities at Rutgers HC as I will have priority for internships and research and have a better chance of getting into an elite grad school v.s. trying a lot harder to stand out at Purdue or UIUC as a regular student. For reference, I am in-state for Rutgers and out-of-state for UIUC and Purdue. For these reasons, I am having a hard time justifying paying 132k more for a Purdue degree and 183k more for a UIUC degree as I plan to work in the industry after grad school.
Your inputs are greatly appreciated and if you could explain your thoughts, that would be nice! Thank you!
If nothing is in favor of Purdue over Rutgers (you did not mention anything), but Rutgers is substantially less expensive, then wouldn’t Rutgers be the obvious choice?
Congratulations on three impressive acceptances!
Sounds like you see all the benefits of Rutgers Honors … but are trying to see whether Purdue might somehow be better even though your heart’s not in it.
If you’re checking that you’re not making a mistake by choosing Rutgers over Purdue- you’re making the right choice.
Congrat to you. Yes ,UIUC needs to be out that $50K is affordable.
Purdue - full pay is less - but of course, many spend more. It’s more like $42K.
It’s likely outcomes from the schools won’t be materially different - so then it’s a question of your preference - and would that saving of $25K a year or so benefit your family - or allow them to help you later in life.
Good friends daughter went to RIT for electrical engineering. She had an internship with Tesla and her first job with them. She’s only been out less then 10 years but gets offers all the time. Has changed jobs since moving to different states. No problem getting a job. Save the money.
