UIUC vs UMich for engineering - Help me decide?

Hey guys! I'm really excited to have gotten accepted into UIUC and UMich for engineering, but I'm not sure which one to go to. My major is electrical engineering by the way. Can anyone weigh in on the major differences between these two schools in terms of academics, campus culture, and job/internship prospects? Thanks a bunch!

Congratulations on being accepted into both UIUC and UMich for engineering! Both schools have great programs, so it's no easy decision. I'll break this down in terms of academics, campus culture, and job/internship prospects to help you compare.

Academics:

UIUC and UMich are highly ranked for engineering and electrical engineering specifically. UMich's College of Engineering is known for its robust curriculum and research opportunities. UIUC hosts one of the largest engineering departments in the country and has strong ties to the tech industry, ensuring that students have access to cutting-edge resources.

Campus Culture:

UIUC's campus has a vibrant and diverse environment with many opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities and clubs. The campus is located in Urbana-Champaign, offering the classic college-town experience. Students often feel a strong sense of school spirit and pride in their school's achievements. In contrast, UMich, located in Ann Arbor, also has a strong sense of community, but the campus is more integrated into the city. While both schools have big sports scenes, UMich's football culture attracts a great deal of attention, so if you're a sports fan, that might be a plus for you.

Job/Internship Prospects:

Both UIUC and UMich have great job/internship prospects for engineering students. UIUC's reputation in the tech industry and proximity to the Midwest's tech hub, Chicago, provides engineering students with abundant job opportunities. Moreover, UIUC has a reputation for connecting students with internships and jobs through partnerships with top-tier companies. On the other hand, UMich has a solid alumni network and strong connections with companies based in Michigan, such as those in the automotive industry. Additionally, due to its broader recognition, UMich's engineering degree may carry more weight in certain industries or regions outside the Midwest.

In summary, both UIUC and UMich are excellent choices for electrical engineering. Consider the kind of campus atmosphere, extracurriculars, and local industry connections you want when making your decision. It may also be helpful to visit both campuses, talk to current students, and research the specific projects and research areas that interest you at each school. This will give you a clearer sense of which one fits your career goals and personal preferences best. Good luck with your decision!