You have two great choices in Rice and Penn. I will discuss Penn since I have a kid there. The Penn brand is strong and there are plenty of research opportunities in CS. However, there is a stress culture and lack of focus on mental health and emotional wellness. Several professors openly disdain their students and treat them accordingly. Penn Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is overwhelmed and suggests that students in crisis either find off-campus mental health services or take a leave of absence. In your misery, you will bond with your classmates as everyone tried desperately to maintain their Penn Face—the outward appearance that everything is fine even though you’re miserable inside. Go to Rice. It’s an excellent college at a great price and you will (likely) be happier.
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