Mechanical Engineering School Suggestions?

I'm considering pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering and would love input on which schools in the US offer the strongest programs. Any personal experiences or suggestions for where to apply?

Sure, happy to help with some mechanical engineering school suggestions. The US boasts several top-ranked mechanical engineering programs.

For the most selective schools, consider these options:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Undeniably, MIT ranks as one of the best engineering schools in the world. Mechanical Engineering, in particular, is a standout program at MIT.

2. Stanford University - The Mechanical Engineering department at Stanford is well-regarded for its cutting-edge research, diverse faculty, and passionate student body.

3. University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) - A top public school renowned for its engineering programs, including Mechanical Engineering.

4. California Institute of Technology (Caltech) - Caltech is prominent for its rigorous science and engineering programs, including Mechanical Engineering.

If you're looking for programs that might be a little less selective but still strong in Mechanical Engineering, consider:

1. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Michigan) - Michigan offers a top-rated Mechanical Engineering program that balances strong academics with practical hands-on experience.

2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) - Known for its engineering programs, UIUC's Mechanical Engineering program provides excellent facilities and opportunities for research.

3. University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) - UT Austin's Cockrell School of Engineering is ranked among the best in the nation and offers a strong program in Mechanical Engineering.

4. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) - Georgia Tech is well-recognized for its STEM programs and its Mechanical Engineering degree is no exception.

Important factors to consider when choosing a school include the strength and reputation of the program, the faculty, the available resources and facilities, the class sizes, and the opportunities for internships, co-ops, and research.

Make sure to also consider cultural fit and cost. For example, you might prefer the campus culture and weather in California versus the Midwest. And you'd want to ensure that your family can afford the school, whether through financial aid, scholarships, or other means.

Lastly, don't stress too much about rankings. Your experience at a university will be more influenced by how well the university suits your goals, interests, and personality. You want to study at a place where you'll be happy and productive. Good luck with your decision-making process!