<p>We just came back from visiting both last month. Son really likes RIT, but is keeping WPI on the list. Some of the differences we noted (and none are good/bad distinctions, just depends on what you value): </p>
<p>WPI<br>
- small, close knit community feel. Students coming up and hugging one another all over campus!<br>
- a much greater “service” component feel with the projects and study abroad possibilities
- a lot of talk about how great the cookies are
- the student body seemed much more “tech-ish” by looks (it was rated by someplace, I can’t remember as one of the nerdiest schools in the country)
- more of a college town feel. Close to Boston.</p>
<p>RIT
- much larger feel, more spread out, students seemed to cluster rather than mingle and blend
- incredible resources, labs, etc., everything seemed very new
- much better on-campus dining and recreation. Seemed it would be easier to stay in shape and eat healthy here.
- coops, of course
- dorms were really small and cramped.
- very suburban feel. Close to Rochester.</p>
<p>Every student we spoke with at both schools LOVED their school. I don’t think you can go wrong with either one, but they are very different. It just comes down to fit, I suppose.</p>