Virginia Tech vs Lehigh: Which is better for engineering?

Hi everyone! I've been accepted to both Virginia Tech and Lehigh and I need some help deciding which is the better choice for an engineering major. Can you share your thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses of each school's engineering program and the overall campus experience?

Hi there! Congratulations on your acceptances! Both Virginia Tech and Lehigh are excellent choices for engineering, and each school has its own unique advantages. Let's break it down:

Virginia Tech

Strengths:

1. Highly ranked and well-respected engineering program (its undergraduate engineering program usually ranks in the top 25 in the nation).

2. Virginia Tech's College of Engineering is one of its most prominent programs, so they allocate substantial resources to it, contributing to high quality labs, equipment, and research opportunities.

3. Larger engineering community, giving you a wider variety of students to interact with and multiple perspectives in your field.

4. Campus has a strong school spirit, and the Division I sports teams create a vibrant atmosphere.

Weaknesses:

1. The larger size may not be ideal for some students who prefer more intimate settings or smaller class sizes.

2. It's located in a more rural area, which might be less appealing to some students who desire a more urban setting.

Lehigh

Strengths:

1. Lehigh's P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science is also highly respected, with strong programs in various engineering disciplines.

2. A smaller student-to-faculty ratio allows for more direct access to professors and a more personalized education experience.

3. Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, it's closer to major cities like Philadelphia and New York, offering internship and networking opportunities.

4. Lehigh is known for creating strong industry connections, and many employers often recruit directly from the university.

Weaknesses:

1. The engineering community is smaller compared to Virginia Tech, so there might be less diversity in available resources or research fields.

2. While it has a strong engineering program, it isn't as recognized in that field as Virginia Tech.

In terms of overall campus experience, this can be subjective and may depend on your personal preferences. Virginia Tech has a large student body and a strong campus spirit, while Lehigh has a smaller community and more personal interaction with faculty. It would be beneficial for you to visit both campuses if possible, talk with faculty and current students, and see which environment better aligns with your personal values and expectations.