<p>Glad you had a great visit. I also believe that it is a hidden gem. My son was a strong HS student and has found lots of like minded ‘nerds’ to hang with.</p>
<p>We live in Iowa and work at the U Iowa. Our son choose Iowa State over several other higher ranked schools…Tulane, U MN, and U Iowa for many of the reasons (and more) that you noted.</p>
<p>Even though I am employed at the U Iowa, I think Iowa State is a better place for undergrads with the exception of a few majors. I know lots of people with kids at both U Iowa and Iowa State. Every one of them thinks that the kid at Iowa State had the better experience and education. Iowa State is more laid back, has less of a party focus, with lots of nice kids that tend to be much more involved in campus life than the typical U Iowa student.</p>
<p>I love it that you can see the ag kids with cowboy hats/boots. And then steps later see some trendy fashion/graphic/art/architecture design majors. You don’t see that at U Iowa. Iowa State actually grants just has many degrees in the arts/music/design/etc as the U Iowa. </p>
<p>It is a good thing you are not there this week…Veishea week…it will be wild.</p>