<p>Agree with BeanTownGirl. My D is a freshman at WPI who chose WPI over several other schools due to fit / “vibe” and couldn’t be happier.</p>
<p>If housing is your main concern, Northeastern has much nicer freshman housing (honors housing, at least. I’m not sure what regular freshman housing is like) than WPI. Upperclassman apartments are also very nice at Northeastern; very expensive but very nice. As others have noted, WPI has upperclassman apartments and is building more. Off campus housing near WPI tends to be convenient (like across the street from dorms), safe, and very reasonably priced compared to Boston. </p>
<p>Having spent time in both neighborhoods, I would say that the neighborhood immediately surrounding WPI is safer than that surrounding Northeastern. That said, Worcester certainly doesn’t offer the diversity of social activities that Boston does and public transportation is not nearly as convenient. The social scene at WPI seems to revolve more around campus and frat activities. My D is very involved in several campus activities and finds plenty to do on the weekends. She is never bored! </p>
<p>I would honestly think a little more about what it is that your looking for from your education. Both schools will provide you with a good background in ME (if not aeronautics) and both provide students with good job prospects after graduation.</p>
<p>How do you feel about co-ops? Spending a 5th year to do them? Going to school / doing coops year round after freshman year (i.e. no long summer breaks)? Some students think this is great, others not so much. </p>
<p>7 week terms? Lots of pluses and minuses - you need to decide for yourself whether you like the idea of these fast paced classes. My D loves it, but some of her friends who are struggling academically find it very challenging due to little time to master material before new material is taught.</p>
<p>Project based curriculum? Again, lots of pluses and minuses. The real world application of skills plus working in multi disciplinary groups is great. But if you hate the idea of these intense projects, WPI may not be a good fit. </p>
<p>Size of school? WPI is pretty small. Again, there are pluses and minuses to that. Close relationships are easily formed with students and professors. It’s easy to get to work in a lab if you are interested. On the other hand, small schools don’t typically offer the diversity of activities that larger schools offer.</p>
<p>As others have said, visiting the schools may help you with your decision. Try to attend classes and talk to students at both schools - this may give you better insight into where you feel most comfortable and which school better fits your learning and living style.</p>
<p>Good luck making your decision. You will get an excellent education at either school, so there’s no bad choices to be made!</p>