Hello, I’m a high school senior trying to figure out where to go to college. I want to major in aerospace engineering. I was fortunate enough to get into some pretty good schools, like Penn State, Ohio State, Purdue, etc. I think I’ve narrowed it down to Purdue and University of Cincinnati based on cost. I was really interested in Embry Riddle, but I live in IN and it’s in FL so my parents weren’t interested. The way I see it, PU and UC both have a lot of pros. At this point, UC would be cheaper of the two and I wouldn’t have to take out loans. I could really use some opinions on what I should do and where I should go. Thanks!
As an aerospace graduate (BS+MS) of Purdue I can say you won’t go wrong with Purdue. I can also say that I personally know Purdue graduates in most of the major name brand aerospace companies, including the one I-75 in Cincy. I cannot say the same for UC grads, though to be fair, I know and notice more Purdue grad as my personal filter. Purdue engineering graduates are recruited nationwide, and by non-engineering companies as well. I think UCs reputation is substantially more local.
Considering cost makes Purdue vs Cincy a value proposition based upon available opportunity as mentioned. I know Cincy offers a good education that is probably every bit as good as Purdue, but you may have more doors open to you initially after graduation if you graduate from Purdue. However, as time marches on, the name on the degree means less, and you can work your way to the same places if you show your mettle and talent and then you won’t have as big a loan payment either.