What are the best colleges for aerospace engineering in the US?

I'm looking to apply to colleges with strong aerospace engineering programs within the US. If anyone has recommendations or personal experiences to share about top schools for aerospace engineering, that would be great.

Based on program strength, industry reputation, facilities, and faculty, the following colleges are often considered leading institutions for aerospace engineering:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Known for its highly rigorous engineering programs, MIT's Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics offers a strong curriculum, renowned faculty, and a variety of research opportunities. Plus, MIT's location in Cambridge provides proximity to a number of tech companies and startups in the Boston area.

2. California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Offering both Aeronautical Engineering and Space Engineering tracks, Caltech's Department of Aerospace combines theoretical and practical training to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field.

3. Stanford University: The Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at Stanford emphasizes the use of computational and experimental tools in their curriculum. Stanford also has various labs and research centers that allow for a hands-on learning experience.

4. University of Michigan (UMich): Known for its research in aerospace engineering, UMich offers a robust aerospace program, with focus areas ranging from gas dynamics to structural mechanics, and opportunities for undergraduate research.

5. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech): Georgia Tech's Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering is recognized for its strong undergraduate and graduate programs. It offers students research opportunities and close links with major aerospace companies.

6. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC): UIUC's Department of Aerospace Engineering offers a well-rounded program that covers several areas of focus. The school's research facilities include wind tunnels, a propellant lab, and a nanosatellite flight lab.

7. Purdue University: Purdue's School of Aeronautics and Astronautics provides a strong curriculum with diverse concentrations. Purdue's location also offers proximity to several aerospace companies and organizations.

These are just a handful of the top aerospace engineering programs in the US. Each has different strengths, so it would be valuable to thoroughly research each program to see which one aligns best with your specific interests and career goals in aerospace engineering. Remember to also consider factors outside of the specific program such as campus culture, location, size, and financial aid.