2 answers
2 answers
Updated
Valerie’s Answer
Looking back, I fondly recall the time when I was fresh out of high school, eager to explore the world of engineering. I had my sights set on a number of prestigious East Coast institutions, such as the Rochester Institute of Technology, Clarkson, and a few other private schools. However, destiny had other plans for me. I ended up at the State University of New York at Buffalo, where I earned my degree in Chemical Engineering.
At that stage in my life, it was a more cost-effective choice, and the diverse campus environment broadened my horizons beyond engineering. The key takeaway here is that a high-quality education doesn't always come with a hefty price tag. My state school degree has served me well in my career.
If you're fortunate enough to secure some impressive scholarships, like my daughter did, then definitely consider private institutions. But remember, it's essential to physically visit the schools you're interested in. Online tours can only tell you so much. Being on campus can give you a real sense of the place and help you decide whether it suits your preferences - be it a bustling urban campus or a quieter suburban one, a large institution or a smaller one.
Don't limit your visits to just the schools on your shortlist. Exploring other campuses can also give you valuable insights into what you like or dislike. Best of luck with your search! Remember, at the end of the day, the best choice will be the one that feels right for you.
At that stage in my life, it was a more cost-effective choice, and the diverse campus environment broadened my horizons beyond engineering. The key takeaway here is that a high-quality education doesn't always come with a hefty price tag. My state school degree has served me well in my career.
If you're fortunate enough to secure some impressive scholarships, like my daughter did, then definitely consider private institutions. But remember, it's essential to physically visit the schools you're interested in. Online tours can only tell you so much. Being on campus can give you a real sense of the place and help you decide whether it suits your preferences - be it a bustling urban campus or a quieter suburban one, a large institution or a smaller one.
Don't limit your visits to just the schools on your shortlist. Exploring other campuses can also give you valuable insights into what you like or dislike. Best of luck with your search! Remember, at the end of the day, the best choice will be the one that feels right for you.
Updated
Nancy’s Answer
Fabian,
You can learn engineering at so many colleges and universities that it doesn’t make sense to pick only one. Study math and science and try to get good grades in them. When it is time to apply for college, consider ABET-accredited engineering programs which ensure minimum standards for preparing engineers. Choosing a college is about fit and expense. Fit means do you like the atmosphere, are your qualifications in line with other students there, do you prefer large or small class sizes, and can you deal with how close or far from home the school is. Expense considerations include can you afford the tuition and room and board, or are you needing to go to community college first and live at home? What amount of financial aid are you likely to get? How much of it will be loans and how much will be grants? After researching these considerations apply to several colleges/universities because you can’t be sure you’ll be accepted at any particular school. Then visit the ones at which you are accepted to help make your final choice.
Learn about ABET here: https://www.abet.org/
You can learn engineering at so many colleges and universities that it doesn’t make sense to pick only one. Study math and science and try to get good grades in them. When it is time to apply for college, consider ABET-accredited engineering programs which ensure minimum standards for preparing engineers. Choosing a college is about fit and expense. Fit means do you like the atmosphere, are your qualifications in line with other students there, do you prefer large or small class sizes, and can you deal with how close or far from home the school is. Expense considerations include can you afford the tuition and room and board, or are you needing to go to community college first and live at home? What amount of financial aid are you likely to get? How much of it will be loans and how much will be grants? After researching these considerations apply to several colleges/universities because you can’t be sure you’ll be accepted at any particular school. Then visit the ones at which you are accepted to help make your final choice.
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