UC Riverside vs Cal Poly: Pros and Cons?

I'm having a hard time deciding between UC Riverside and Cal Poly. Can anyone help me weigh the pros and cons of these two schools, including factors like campus life, academics, and job prospects? I'm planning to major in Computer Science, if that makes any difference.

UC Riverside and Cal Poly are both great options, but they have different emphases and environments. Here is a comparison of their pros and cons, taking into account campus life, academics, and job prospects in Computer Science:

UC Riverside:

Pros:

1. Part of the respected University of California system, which is well-regarded both nationally and internationally.

2. Diverse student body, providing opportunities to learn from peers with different backgrounds.

3. Research-focused environment, with opportunities to engage in research projects and learn from esteemed faculty.

4. Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, which allows students to explore a wide range of subjects.

5. Extensive course offering, giving you more options to choose from within the field of Computer Science.

Cons:

1. High student-to-faculty ratio (23:1), which could lead to larger class sizes and less individual attention from professors.

2. Campus is located in a suburban setting, which may not appeal to students looking for an urban or more rural setting.

3. Potentially less hands-on experience and industry connections when compared to Cal Poly's "learn by doing" approach.

Cal Poly:

Pros:

1. Known for its "Learn by Doing" philosophy, emphasizing hands-on learning experiences, which can be valuable in the field of Computer Science.

2. Strong industry connections, leading to internships and job opportunities with well-known tech companies.

3. Smaller student-to-faculty ratio (21:1), likely resulting in smaller class sizes and more individualized attention from professors.

4. Located in San Luis Obispo, a city with a small-town college atmosphere and easy access to outdoor activities.

5. Cal Poly has a strong reputation in Computer Science, making graduates appealing to employers in the tech industry.

Cons:

1. More focused on professional preparation than on research and academic exploration, which might not suit students interested in pursuing graduate studies or engaging in research projects.

2. Less diverse student body compared to UC Riverside.

3. Course selection could be somewhat narrower than at a UC campus, limiting the range of topics you can explore in depth.

Ultimately, your choice should be based on what environment and opportunities align better with your personal and academic preferences. If you prefer a hands-on learning experience with strong industry connections, Cal Poly may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you appreciate a diverse and research-focused environment with a broader course selection, UC Riverside might be a better fit.