Choosing Between Illinois Institute of Technology and Others

I'm looking into the Illinois Institute of Technology and want to know if anyone has experience attending there. How are the programs and resources for engineering students? Would you recommend it over other tech schools?

As a current engineering student (not at Illinois Institute of Technology - IIT), I would like to discuss some of the merits and potential drawbacks. Academically, IIT is known for their strong programs in engineering, particularly in areas such as electrical engineering and mechanical engineering. The school appeals to many students because of its strong ties to the industry, and its location in Chicago provides access to a wealth of internships and job opportunities.

However, whether you would recommend it over other tech schools really depends on the specific schools in question. For instance, MIT and Caltech are also tech-focused but they have a broader global recognition. If you're considering schools of that caliber, you might want to think about other factors, such as the campus culture, location, or specific aspects of the curriculum.

In terms of resources, IIT shines with its lab facilities, which students often praise as being up-to-date and readily available. They also offer numerous research opportunities, even for undergraduate students, which can be a huge plus if you're interested in getting hands-on experience during your studies.

However, going to a more specialized institution like IIT could mean that you miss out on the diversity of academic offerings available at larger, more comprehensive universities. If you have a clear focus on engineering and know that’s what you want to concentrate on, this likely won’t be an issue. But if you’re not 100% sure, or if you have a wide range of academic interests, it’s something to consider.

Additionally, it's always important to examine the culture and social scene of the school when making a decision. IIT is a smaller, more focused institution, which can be a great fit for students who appreciate a close-knit community. For students seeking a larger, more traditional college experience, a different tech school might be a better fit.

I hope this helps you in your decision-making!