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by tsally 5852 days ago
You might be interested in this thread: http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=901782. My response in that thread: http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=901808.

A couple additional notes. If you're interested in creating things, a small CS program probably wont suit you. Those tend to be far more theoretical; what you want is a CS department with strong systems. You might also consider getting a degree in something else and minoring in CS and/or programming on the side. Finally, undergraduate research is accessible at any research focused university and I definitely recommend you participate. You'll have to knock down a ton of doors to get a position, but it's worth it.

Feel free to email me if you want to know anything else about UIUC or just have questions in general!
3 comments
cpher 5852 days ago
I highly recommend UIUC. I grew up there, worked there, and took a CS course there for fun. However, I wouldn't reject small schools outright. A strong liberal arts college will open your eyes to lots of opportunities and you'll definitely have a more personal relationship with the faculty. Even at schools like UIUC, you'll feel like a small fish in a big pond, and trying to make sense of it all may be overwhelming.
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tsally 5852 days ago
I only reject small schools when it comes to technical disciplines like CS. Size and funding make all the difference when it comes to the courses offered and undergraduate research opportunities. I actually prefer small, liberal arts schools for all other types of education. :)
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mronge 5851 days ago
I also recommend UIUC. They have an excellent, rigorous program with an incredible student ACM chapter. The ACM chapter does lots of great technical projects that really help polish up your skillset (plus the projects are loads of fun) UIUC grads were highly regarded at companies Ive worked at (cs program is generally ranked 5th, ee is highly ranked as well)
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Locke1689 5851 days ago
Similarly, if you're interested in Northwestern University (per that thread) you're welcome to contact me. I am an undergrad and also the current ACM chapter president there.
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