Thunderbolt462
10-Year Member
- Joined
- Feb 15, 2012
- Messages
- 147
If you can afford both without taking out massive student loans, pick which one feels most like home after visiting the campus. They're both excellent schools, so I honestly wouldn't sweat the academics or ROTC side of things, but more the general student life.
I know ERAU really likes to hype up their ROTC programs, but the numerous graduates of their program from both schools I've come to know haven't really knocked my socks off or anything when compared to graduates of other programs. Their pilot selection rates are on par with the national average as well, despite what they might claim. If you're an absolute nerd for aviation, ERAU's aviation program is second to none. For engineering in general, Purdue has a reputation as being one of the nation's premier programs. This poll has Purdue at #6 vs ERAU at #101 https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/aerospace-rankings
If one school is a better financial choice than the other, then the decision is easy. Don't be like one of my pilot friends who's still 40k in debt for his aviation degree.
Also, while having the space center right there is cool, other than sitting on the grass and watching the rockets fly past, it won't really do much for your future. If you really want to, apply for a summer internship there.
I know ERAU really likes to hype up their ROTC programs, but the numerous graduates of their program from both schools I've come to know haven't really knocked my socks off or anything when compared to graduates of other programs. Their pilot selection rates are on par with the national average as well, despite what they might claim. If you're an absolute nerd for aviation, ERAU's aviation program is second to none. For engineering in general, Purdue has a reputation as being one of the nation's premier programs. This poll has Purdue at #6 vs ERAU at #101 https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/aerospace-rankings
If one school is a better financial choice than the other, then the decision is easy. Don't be like one of my pilot friends who's still 40k in debt for his aviation degree.
Also, while having the space center right there is cool, other than sitting on the grass and watching the rockets fly past, it won't really do much for your future. If you really want to, apply for a summer internship there.