Hey all, I'm torn between applying to Virginia Tech (VT) and North Carolina State University (NCSU). Can anyone weigh in on the academics, campus vibes, career service, etc. at VT and NCSU? I'm planning for Engineering. Really struggling here.
Absolutely, I'd be glad to help compare these two schools, particularly regarding engineering.
Academics:
In terms of academics, both schools are highly regarded, especially in Engineering. However, each has its own areas of niche expertise. VT is known for its Mechanical and Civil engineering programs, while NCSU has strong programs in Electrical and Biological Engineering. Both provide a rigorous curriculum, and the strength of their engineering programs makes either school an excellent option depending on your engineering interests.
Campus Vibes:
As for campus vibes, Virginia Tech has a very close-knit community feel, with a large emphasis on school spirit, especially in athletics. On the other hand, North Carolina State has a bit more of an urban feel, being located in Raleigh. You'll have a city's resources at your fingertips, which some students prefer.
Career Services:
When looking at career services, both universities are deeply invested in students' post-graduation success. VT's Career and Professional Development office provides numerous resources. At NCSU, they have an entire Career Development Center dedicated to helping students find internships, co-ops, and careers post-graduation. The career fairs at both schools are well-attended by employers looking to recruit engineering students, so you'll have plenty of opportunities at both schools.
Additional Factors:
Note that there will be out of state tuition if you're not a resident of the state where you're attending. Also, you might want to consider where you want to work after graduation. If you're leaning towards a specific geographic location, check out which school's graduates typically find work there.
Ultimately, both are great schools and you can't go wrong with either for engineering. It really comes down to your personal preference in terms of the campus environment and atmosphere. I would recommend visiting both campuses if possible. This experience may provide you with a better feeling of where you'd be more comfortable, which is an important part of the decision-making process.
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