Penn State is more well known than UVA. My west coast friends dont really care too much about UVA - for them - its just a state school

Anonymous wrote:Program rankings for undergrads, in my opinion, aren't as important than overall school reputation unless you're gunning for grad school in a particular program.


I'd go instate to UVA.

This.

Program rankings for undergrads, in my opinion, aren't as important than overall school reputation unless you're gunning for grad school in a particular program.


I'd go instate to UVA.

We were recently in State College and were so impressed by all the school spirit. I know UVA alums are enthusiastic about their school, but I've never seen something like the love for PSU. It is definitely going on my kid's list. It seems like it is a great place to go to college.

PP - OP here. Exactly the reason why my kid wants to head out of Virginia. And we have been to Skyline Drive way too many times

Penn State.

UVA engineering isn’t ranked as high as Penn State. The PSU alumni network is insane—largest in the country (so they claim). Plus my kid likes getting away from the NoVA bubble and the many others from his school also at UVA.

While both schools are great, I think for STEM I would go with Penn State.

Penn State alums are as in love with their school as Notre Dame alums. It's quite impressive.

For STEM and particularly engineering, I would go with Penn State. For computer science they are roughly equal.

Anonymous wrote:DC got into UVa ( in state) and Penn State ( safety) with merit - so tuition is roughly the same.

For STEM major - which school is better? DC’s school counsellor is recommending we seriously consider Penn State.

Any first hand experience at Penn State?

How is this a question UVA is the only answer

They are both good options so if cost is the same, your kid should decide which one they prefer.

Is the aid dependent upon maintaining a GPA or anything else? You might want to think about that.

Also, is one more flexible on switching majors if your kid decides against STEM?

Just think of some of these other things that may differentiate.

State College gets cold…so weather could be another factor.

Penn State is ranked higher than UVa for engineering. Better on-campus hiring. People are in a UVa bubble here

Seriously? UVA hand down.

Anonymous wrote:UVA - how is this a question? Penn State is a safetyvfor most

They are stirring the pot for the UVA is weak in STEM crowd. Ignore.

UVA - how is this a question? Penn State is a safetyvfor most

DC got into UVa ( in state) and Penn State ( safety) with merit - so tuition is roughly the same.

For STEM major - which school is better? DC’s school counsellor is recommending we seriously consider Penn State.

Any first hand experience at Penn State?