How does RPI's engineering program rank these days?

I'm planning to major in engineering and I'm looking at RPI as one of my options. How well regarded is Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's engineering program compared to other top schools? Would you recommend applying?

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, commonly known as RPI, has a strong reputation in the field of engineering. It's consistently ranked among the top engineering schools in the United States.

As with all college decisions, it ultimately depends on your individual goals and preferences. RPI is a smaller institution compared to many top-tier engineering schools, which could provide you with a more personal academic experience. There's also a robust on-campus community focused on technology and innovation, which many engineering students find valuable.

However, there are factors you should consider beyond rankings when deciding whether to apply to a school. These can include the school’s location, size, academic focus, extracurricular opportunities, and financial aid.

Regarding RPI, you should know that it has a unique "Arch" program where students spend a semester on campus the summer after their sophomore year, taking junior-level classes, then spend either the fall or spring of their junior year away on a co-op, internship, or other experiential learning opportunity. This could be a big draw if you're interested in gaining real-world experience before graduation.

Do make sure you also reflect on what, beyond rankings, you're seeking from your engineering education. Different schools might shine in different areas of engineering, or provide different kinds of practical experiences or learning environments. It might be beneficial to look into these factors and how each school aligns with what you want from your college experience.

At the end of the day, RPI has a solid engineering program, and it's certainly worth considering if its features align with your goals. It's always wise to apply to a range of schools, though, so you have a backup plan and can make the best decision after seeing your acceptances and financial aid offers.