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How do I choose between colleges? Is area an okay deciding factor?

im deciding between George Mason University and Virginia Tech. I want to do Computer Science (at Tech, i have to do gen engineering as a first year and then APPLY to cs meaning i may not get in). I haven't heard from Tech yet but I got accepted into Mason for CS. The area around Mason is more appealing to me since I can go to concerts in DC which is one of my favorite things to do. I can also just live near DC which is a lively city and booming in the CS/UX-design industry which is the career i want to pursue. I LOVEE Tech's campus, but outside of "college town" there is practically nothing. Assuming i get into Tech for my first choice major, how should I choose? what are good things to keep in mind when making the decision? #college #GMU #virginiatech

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Austin’s Answer

Avni, great question. Tech and GMU are both great schools so this is actually a good problem to have. CS is a great major as digital skills and coding are important skills that employers really like to see when reviewing candidates for a job. You should take into account what school has the better CS program and what the job market is around Tech and GMU. If one of these schools has a proven track record of getting their students good jobs and have a well developed CS program, then you may want to choose that school. Internships are a fantastic way to gain experience and look great on a resume so you may want to think what college provides you better access to internships. If GMU (due to its proximity to DC) affords you better internships then you may want to choose GMU. Having to move somewhere for the summer due to an internship can be stressful, but if you're close to the internship, then not only is it better for you, but it makes you a more attractive candidate to the employer. I went to George Washington University (in D.C.) as an International Affairs major and being in DC has been vital to my success. By having walking distance access to think-tanks, U.S. government departments and agencies, and embassies, I was afforded the best possible chance of getting into the career field of my choice. Think about not only the school, but what the benefits of geography are.


I hope this helps you in your choice. Also, D.C. is pretty great if I am being honest.


Best,

Austin

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A.’s Answer

Hello Avny!

Your query brought a smile to my face, as it reminded me of my own predicament back in the day. I too was caught in the dilemma of choosing between Virginia Tech and George Mason University, just like you are now. Your reasons resonate with my past experiences, so I completely empathize with your situation.

Both universities have distinct cultures and atmospheres, and the contrast is quite striking. My decision ultimately swayed towards George Mason University, largely due to its location and the superior program offered for my chosen degree.

I can vouch for Mason's excellent IT program, but I feel it's important to mention that the campus is quite secluded. Unlike the typical "open campus", Mason's layout requires you to walk between buildings. Parking can be a bit tricky, and the campus is generally compact, with little space "in between" the buildings.

On a brighter note, George Mason University offers discounted tickets for on-campus concerts, which is a nice perk. I'm unsure if Virginia Tech offers the same.

In conclusion, my advice would be to factor in the location while making your decision. I hope this helps!
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Rachel’s Answer

<span style="background-color: transparent;">Collegeboard.org is a great resource for this! I poured through the pages of universities all over the U.S. when I was a senior in high school. Collegeboard was my go-to site! They put all of the information in one place and it is very easy to use. They even have various filters you can apply to see only colleges that have programs you are interested. To determine academic rigor, look at the admissions requirements, G.P.A. of past admitted applicants, SAT/ACT scores, class rank etc. This will give you an idea of what scores and grades you need to be accepted. However, don't be discouraged your application will be reviewed based on the full picture! College-board will help you get an idea of what is most important to the specific school you are applying to.</span>


This professional recommends the following next steps:

  • <span style="background-color: transparent;">Chat with your Guidance Counselor</span>
  • <span style="background-color: transparent;">Create a Collegeboard.org account</span>
  • <span style="background-color: transparent;">Start using CollegeBoard as a resource to look up schools.</span>
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