u/ConsiderationOld7956

I know this has been asked multiple times in this subreddit, but still confused. I am leaning towards UCSD but still not fully convinced. I will be graduating from ASU this spring. My main goal is to grab an internship later job. Money is not a problem(as significant cost diff b/w the two).

UIUC MCS :

• Top 5 brand name, but in my experience individual efforts matter the most as UCSD is still ranked 12th.
• Not eligible for RA/TA
• A rigid course work aimed at getting people ready for jobs.
• Some refer it to "cash cow" program

UCSD MSCS :

• Ranked 12th in CS, smaller cohort size than UIUC MCS
• If the job market is terrible I will be able to steer towards thesis
• A lot of completion but could get into a TA/RA job if done right

FYI i am an international student.

Observing current market trends traditional SDE roles are disappearing, so I will be targeting AI/ML engineer roles.

TBH, I think I am constantly looking to convince myself that UCSD is better option (as this post suggests). Please let me know if I am being biased here. Is the UIUC brand name too big to pass or the UCSD is good enough to catch the eye of the recruiter.
Special mention the San Diego Weather.