Is the University of Maryland's Computer Science program highly ranked?

I'm considering applying to the University of Maryland for Computer Science and trying to gauge how competitive or well-respected their program is. Any current students or alums who can chime in with their experiences would be awesome!

You're certainly considering a strong program! The University of Maryland, College Park is known for a robust and competitive Computer Science program. To give you an objective measure, it's consistently ranked within the top 20 computer science undergraduate programs in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report. The program is housed in the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences, which gives students the opportunity to delve into multidisciplinary learning and research.

From an experiential perspective, the program is lauded by students for providing a solid foundation in computer science while offering various specializations, such as data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The faculty are highly respected in their fields, and many students cite the collaborative environment and strong research opportunities as huge assets to the program.

Furthermore, its proximity to Washington DC allows students better access to internships and career opportunities with major tech corporations, startups and government agencies. Also, the program's reputation gives its graduates a leg up in the job market. That being said, the program is challenging and competitive due to the high standards set by faculty and the strength of your peers, so be prepared to put your full effort into your studies.

So if you're drawn to a vibrant, supportive environment with challenging coursework and solid career prospects, the University of Maryland's Computer Science program could be a great fit. As you consider your options, I recommend reaching out to current students or faculty in the program to hear more firsthand experiences. It's always helpful to get various perspectives while making your decision.