What's the best college for computer science undergrad?

I'm starting to plan for college and really interested in studying computer science for my undergrad. Any recommendations for the best colleges with strong programs? I want a solid education but also a good college experience!

There are numerous excellent schools for studying computer science at the undergraduate level. A few which especially stand out are:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): As one of the top engineering schools in the world, the computer science program in MIT is robust, covering both traditional concepts and latest technology.

2. Stanford University: The program is renowned for its focus on entrepreneurship, so if you have dreams of starting your own tech startup, Stanford's culture of innovation might be a great place for these ambitions to thrive.

3. University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley): Known for its strong engineering program and proximity to Silicon Valley, Berkeley is highly respected in the tech world.

4. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU): CMU has a dedicated School of Computer Science is known for its rigorous curriculum and collaborative atmosphere.

5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC): Its Computer Science department has consistently been ranked among the top 5 CS departments nationally and internationally.

Whichever school you ultimately pick, remember vividly that the best undergraduate program for computer science for you will depend largely on what you want out of your college experience. Do you want a big or small class size? Are you interested in a specific concentration within Computer Science, such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine learning, or Data Science?

You can truly grasp a university's culture, and find the best fit for you by touring campuses (virtually or physically) and talking to current students or alumni. College admissions can be a complex process, and picking the right school is far more about fit and personal comfort than just rankings. You'd want to consider the overall academic rigor, faculty quality, research opportunities, internships, the alumni network, and cultural fit alongside the strength of the Computer Science program.

Also remember, the strength of the computer science department is a relatively small part of what makes a university the "best" choice for you, so consider things like location, size, extracurricular opportunities, and overall campus culture while making your selection.