Penn State vs. University of Maryland: Which one to pick?

Hi all! I'm stuck between Penn State and the University of Maryland for my undergraduate studies in computer science. I would love to hear people's thoughts regarding the quality of the comp sci programs, research opportunities, and internships at both schools. Additionally, how do they compare in terms of campus life and overall student experience? Thanks in advance!

Hi there! Congrats on your acceptances to both Penn State and the University of Maryland! You can't really go wrong with either choice, as both have strong computer science programs. However, let’s dive into some specifics to help you make a decision:

1. Computer Science Programs: While UMD is often ranked higher in the field of computer science, Penn State still offers a robust curriculum and opportunities for growth. Ultimately, the quality of your education will depend on your own motivation and involvement.

2. Research Opportunities: Both universities have an array of research opportunities, with UMD having a slight edge due to its proximity to government agencies and tech corridors—being near Washington, D.C. means you’ll have east access to agencies like the NSA and National Institutes of Health, as well as the tech-savvy Maryland suburbs.

3. Internships: Both schools have strong connections to tech companies and provide ample internship opportunities for students. Keep in mind that the specific opportunities may depend on the companies and organizations that are recruiting at each school. Attending campus career fairs and building relationships with professors can greatly enhance your chances of securing internships. Additionally, while UMD has the benefit of being near D.C., if you think you may be more interested in living in Philadelphia, Boston, or New York after graduation, Penn State is closer to those cities, so may make it easier for you to network while still in undergrad.

4. Campus Life: When it comes to campus life, be sure to consider the size, location, and vibe of each school. Penn State is known for its strong school spirit (especially around the football team—the White Out game in particular is the stuff of legend), large campus, and vibrant college town atmosphere. UMD, on the other hand, while still boasting school spirit, has a slightly more urban feel due to its proximity to Washington, D.C. Visit both campuses, if possible, to see which environment you prefer.

5. Student Experience: In terms of student experience, part of it will come down to personal preference. Both schools have a rich array of clubs, activities, and traditions. While Penn state has a large Greek life presence and is particularly known for its sports teams and THON (the annual dance marathon fundraiser), UMD also offers hundreds of student organizations that cater to diverse interests.

In summary, both Penn State and the University of Maryland are excellent options for studying computer science, so choosing between them will come down to personal preferences in terms of campus feel, location, and specific research areas. It might be helpful to visit the campuses and talk to current students to get a better sense of the overall experience. Good luck with your decision!