Stevens Institute of Technology vs Rutgers University: Difficulty choosing

Hi all, I've been accepted to both Stevens Institute of Technology and Rutgers University, and I'm having a hard time making a decision. My major is mechanical engineering. Can anyone share their experiences or insights about academics, campus life, and career opportunities at both schools?

Congratulations on your acceptances to both Stevens Institute of Technology and Rutgers University! As a mechanical engineering major, you want to evaluate each college based on academics, campus life, and career opportunities. Let me give you a brief comparison of both schools to help you make an informed decision.

Academics:

Stevens Institute of Technology is well-known for its engineering programs and offers a hands-on approach to learning. The class sizes are smaller, which allows for more one-on-one interactions with professors, and the coursework is rigorous. Rutgers University also has a reputable engineering program, but being a larger public university, it may have larger class sizes and less individualized attention for undergraduates, especially in those first few years.

Campus Life:

Stevens Institute of Technology has a beautiful campus located in Hoboken, NJ, with a small community feel and an incredible view of the NYC skyline. Since it's a smaller school, students tend to form close friendships with their peers. Rutgers University, on the other hand, has a significantly larger campus with more diverse student body, and it is more spread out, divided into several campuses in New Brunswick/Piscataway. This allows for a multitude of clubs, activities, and sporting events, providing a traditional college experience.

Career Opportunities:

Stevens Institute of Technology has a robust career services department and a great focus on co-op programs, which allows students to gain valuable work experience while studying. The school's proximity to NYC offers a wide range of job and internship opportunities. Rutgers University also has a strong career services department that connects students to internships and job opportunities. Due to its larger alumni network, you might find more connections across various industries.

Ultimately, your choice will come down to your personal preferences and priorities. If a smaller campus with more individualized attention and hands-on experiences appeals to you, Stevens might be a better fit. However, if you prefer a larger campus with a diverse student body and more extracurricular offerings, consider Rutgers.

Good luck with your decision, and I hope this comparison helps you choose the right school for you!