The Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT is an amazing school.My daughter goes there and loves it. It has a fabulous number of updated computers, and the campus is very wireless friendly. Professors are very accessible. The curriculum is very real world friendly. They really focus on current software and real world job skills.

Interestingly, although RIT does have grad programs, its main focus is undergraduate study. Lots of opportunities for undergraduates that aren't available in other schools to do top level work and participate in top level research.

The school also really listens to their students and parent suggestions, which is usually rare for schools. For example, in response to complaints about being too little to do, they built a whole new gym and work out/ running facility. They are also building a college town with stores and homes and other student friendly facilities on campus. They have a great coffee/pastry shop in the library ( I almost felt that I was in Border's Books).

Although RIT is a technical school, it's art and design program is outstanding. My daughter loves the quality of instruction. She can't wait to participate in the internship programs, which is a great way to both learn real world job skills, learn more about her field of interest, and perhaps lead to some full time great job. Moreover, these are paid internships.

I will admit that as a parent, I wasn't happy about either the weather or the fact that all architecture consists of homogeneous red brick. I guess they don't want stylish, differing buildings.

My daughter noted that there are about 2 guys for every girl,which is good. However, as she also noted," Although the odds are good, the goods are odd." Too many folks lack social skills.

RIt is also cheaper than their counter parts at Carnegie Melon, Syracus etc, and in my opinion, it is better too.

Bottom line: Good place to check out if you are interested in engineering, science or art/ design.If they keep up the good work and grow financially, they could well equal or even exceed the reputations of schools like Carnegie Melon, Syracuse etc.

1st Year Female -- Class 2008

Education Quality: A+, Campus Aesthetics: C+

Rochester Institute of Technology is a good school and I've enjoyed my years here. The weather isn't so great if you're from a warn area, but it's not too bad. Students and faculty are for the most part nice. Dorm life is a nice thing, but the on campus apartments are really awesome - fully furnished and newly renovated. I honestly wouldn't want to be anywhere else.

3rd Year Male -- Class 2006

Faculty Accessibility: A+, Campus Aesthetics: B