MIT vs. Stanford

[Yan Wang]

I'll be at CPW too (and an orientation leader in the Fall). Contact me on aim (monsieurcoffee) if you have questions or call me/email me (yan_wang@mit.edu).

I narrowed my college choices down to MIT and Stanford last April. I visited both and asked many students and friends for their opinions. In the end, I found Stanford had better weather but MIT was 1) In a great location that is the best college town in the world - Palo Alto is not nearly as fun or accessible. 2) Has the most reputable MechE and Economics departments (and EECS). 3) Was in the Northeast where I like it.

My friend Chenli, who is graduating from Stanford with a double major in CS and Economics (both departments are #1 at MIT) next month said this when I asked him if he would've gone to MIT had he got in: "Yes." But that's him, and not you.

I liked MIT because I liked it. And you'll like whatever school you choose for your own reasons, however stupid they may be (mine aren't great, but they're my reasons and no one can say otherwise). It's your choice. If financial aid is the same, then just go with what you want. Other people's opinions don't matter on this subject. Your parents must be very proud already and it's your education!