Traditional college experience?

RPIAlum86
Fri, 14 Mar 2014 01:03:53 +0000

As my user name suggests, I have some familiarity with RPI, although it is kind of dated. I have visited both RPI and RIT recently with my son, as he considered both schools. I know some faculty, staff, and current RPI students as I still live nearby.

RPI has a Division 1 hockey program, a good D3 football program, and lots of other sports. It certainly isn’t going to be like being in a Division 1 football and basketball school, though. Neither has a big sports atmosphere, and that was a good thing for us. We visited BC, and did NOT like the big-time sports atmosphere there.

RPI Greek life is vibrant, and plenty of students participate. Many frats and sororities have off-campus houses as living options. Dry? Um… no.

Speaking specifically of RPI, there are plenty of non-academic things to do as a student if you wish. Lots of clubs, intramural sports, it really is what you make it. There are kids who will sit in their rooms and do nothing but play video games, too.

A really big difference between the two schools is the campus setting. RIT is relatively isolated, where RPI is in a more urban setting where fraternity houses and off-campus apartments are in close proximity. The thing I remember from our RIT visit is you’d better like brick buildings! RIT is substantially larger than RPI, about double the student population.

Another difference was the co-op education focus. While co-op is available at RPI, it is not a centerpiece of the student experience. If my goal was to go into industry after college, I might lean towards RIT. If my goal was grad school, perhaps RPI. A good student will be successful in either school.

Finally, I’m sure you know that RPI is more selective and has statistically stronger students. RIT, on the other hand, is MUCH more affordable.

I hope that is of some use. Ultimately I would select the school that “feels” right for your son. Good luck!