<p>I’ve taught at Stanford as a guest professor, and I usually post on the MIT board. When I first saw this question on CollegeConfidential, I assumed it was from someone going into the undergrad program. Had that been the case the answer would have been: Go to Stanford. But you are applying to a master’s program.</p>
<p>Look, both Stanford and Cornell are among the top ten schools in the country in grad science and engineering. Stanford is ranked higher, but in terms of your future career path, the differences are minimal. Cornell offered you a significantly better package. I live 15 minutes from Stanford, and I can tell you that the cost of living here in Silicon Valley is vastly higher than the cost of living in Ithaca, NY. Cornell is much, much closer to your significant other. Believe me, it is important to consider your personal happiness as you enter grad school. My advice is to take Cornell’s offer.</p>