Rhetoric & Comp decision help?

[lascosmo]

My friend got accepted into RPI (Rensselear) and Texas Tech's Rhetoric & Comp programs, and he's trying to decide where to go, and what to look for during the two upcoming campus visits.

(BTW, it's really someone who I deeply care about and want to help make the best decision ... and he doesn't use this cafe --

this is not one of those coy ploys where "my friend" is supposed to be "actually me" )

On the premise that funding is reasonable for both,

can any of you offer any info on factors to consider regarding these programs?

The department culture, local living conditions, and most importantly recent doctoral graduates' job placements / career tracks, etc.

I know he's interested in game studies (something about social behavior / interactivity in video games + pedagogy) and

new media technologies (perhaps exploring the potentials of new media in relation to improving distance education / educational experience of non-traditional or international students, etc., from I understand - though I'm not very informed in this field.)

What are the two respective programs known best for?

Is Rensselear perhaps too narrow in focus (tech-oriented) -- is this perhaps a con when later he goes on the job market, or a niche advantage?

Which school seems to have more exciting new research activities going on and have better prospect of long-term program vitality?

Actually, any gossip about the two schools would be appreciated ...

(And sorry if this is a distracting question, since I know many people are still waiting to hear from programs -

but perhaps this kind of info may help other people applying next year too.)

[ComeBackZinc]

I put the word out. Let me get back to you tomorrow morning.

[lascosmo]

Oh, thank you! Much appreciated. .

Edited February 19, 2012 by lascosmo

[ComeBackZinc]

I'll PM you.