Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

  • Thread starter Thread starter Wellesley
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SUMMARY

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is recognized for its strong engineering programs, particularly in Chemical Engineering, which is consistently ranked in the top 25 nationally. However, current discussions highlight significant challenges, including dissatisfaction among students regarding administration and potential cuts to faculty, which may lead to larger class sizes. Alumni and current students express concerns about the institution's financial stability and recommend exploring alternative schools with strong engineering programs, such as the University of Minnesota and Harvey-Mudd College. Overall, while RPI has a solid reputation, prospective students should carefully consider the current environment before applying.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of engineering program rankings and their significance.
  • Familiarity with the current economic challenges facing higher education institutions.
  • Knowledge of co-op and internship opportunities in engineering fields.
  • Awareness of alternative engineering schools and their reputations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the University of Minnesota's Chemical Engineering program.
  • Investigate Harvey-Mudd College's engineering offerings and admission criteria.
  • Explore the financial health and faculty stability of RPI through local news sources.
  • Examine the hands-on learning opportunities available at RPI versus other engineering schools.
USEFUL FOR

Prospective engineering students, parents considering RPI for their children, and educational consultants evaluating engineering programs.

  • #31
Tom Mattson said:
And there's the Times Union Center (formerly the Pepsi Arena) in Albany

and before it was the Pepsi Arena it was called the Knicker-Bocker arena! Which in fact, sounded just as silly then as it does now. That original name is almost as funny as the fact that the thing has changed names 3 times.
 
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  • #32
Sounds like we need to do another PF get-together at RPI/Troy. I met Tom up there a few years ago during a student conference in which I participated as a professional. I used to visit the library quite often, since it's the most accessible technical library for me.

My wife is from Troy and I've had a chance to visit many times. I like the area, and there is plenty to do. If one likes outdoor activities, there's the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers, plenty of parks, and further north (about 1 hr or so) is the Adirondack park area.

GE Corporate Research Labs are located in Schenectady.


As for academics, I've been impressed with the engineering programs with which I'm familiar, and it seems to me the right blend of theory and application. Of course, that blend strongly depends on the faculty. I would certainly recommend that one contact professors, or browse the website, and look at the research/publications in order to decide if a particular program is suitable.
 
  • #33
axeae said:
When exactly are you going planning on entering college? Things at RPI could change drastically in another two years.

RPI isn't going to short-change you on practical applications. For math (and probably other subjects too), you can't really be successful applying ideas unless you understand the theory behind it. Based on my experiences at RPI, that should be the absolute last thing to be worried about.

I'm a junior in high school this year, so I would be a freshman in college in two years. I know no one can predict the future, but do you think the problem with RSI is temporary, or is the University in a downward spiral?

Regarding the theoretical vs. practical, I just wanted to make sure. As far as I can tell, most schools are pretty well balanced.

It sounds like Troy is quite the city...
 

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