Choosing between University of Washington, Seattle and Ohio State University

[bitsofchemical]

Hello,

 

I have been offered admits to the Master's program in Chemical Engineering at the University of Washington, Seattle campus and Ohio State University, Columbus (both unfunded). There are several pros and cons to both universities which has made this a tough decision for me. I'll be grateful if someone on the forum will provide some useful insights into the situation.

 

University of Washington (Thesis/Non thesis track to be chosen by me)-

1. I'll enter into the 2nd batch of MS students in ChemE, so it's not that well estalished.
2. Rankings put UW, for chemical, above Ohio, 
3. Being a non-CS/EEE branch, job hunt after MS will be difficult
4. There's a lot of flexibility in the courses that I can take, even among the compulsory ones
5. They take 10 MS students, so small class strength
6. I have close relatives in Seattle, plus I've heard Seattle is a great place to live in
7. Some temporary assistantships are available, not exactly like RA/TAships

Ohio State University (Thesis)-

1. There are greater opportunities for RA/TA appointments, esp in allied depts
2. Not sure if good opportunities are available after graduation, and if the dept is very recognized
3. Research fields under the professors are more diverse than at UW
4. Courses are pre-determined and electives can only be taken if they help my thesis
5. They took 40 MS students this year (huge jump from 5-10 taken in the previous years)

Climate-wise both these places can be harsh and very different from where I currently live. I have worked on catalysis and nano-materials before this, and both research areas are represented in these colleges. So, everything seems to have averaged out and I am confused. If someone can comment on any/both of these colleges/departments, I'll be highly grateful.

[iphi]

I wouldn't call Seattle area weather "harsh". It rains a lot, but not as much as people think. It snows a few times per year. Columbus weather can get pretty cold, but nowhere near Chicago or Minnesota or other midwestern states.

 

I would definitely factor cost of living into your decision. Columbus is far cheaper than Seattle, and in both places you are probably going to need a car. You may be able to get around without one in Seattle depending on what you do/where you go, but absolutely not in Columbus.

 

Good luck!

[bjorntsui]

You do not need a car in Seattle, you can commute via metro and bike. And Seattle's weather is far from harsh, sure you got raining days but that is why we use umbrellas. Seattle springs and summers are to die for.  I dread Midwest winters.

 

Seattle is awesome, then again I'm bias because I'm from there.

[elisewin]

I'm heading to OSU and everyone tells me I won't need a car.

[iphi]

I'm heading to OSU and everyone tells me I won't need a car.

 

Hm. Well I went without a car in Columbus and I wouldn't do it again! Just my $.02