u/Glittering_Cycle_566

Hey everyone,

I’m an international student who’s been accepted to Virginia Tech (General Engineering, intending Mechanical) and Ohio State (pre-mechanical), and I’m making my final decision today.

Right now I’m leaning toward Virginia Tech, mainly because I like the idea of a college town and a more close-knit community, but I’d love to hear from current students to help me feel more confident in my choice.

How has your experience at VT been so far in terms of:

- Student life and overall vibe

- Social life / nightlife

- The Blacksburg location (does it ever feel too quiet?)

- Engineering experience (especially first year + mechanical)

- Professors, workload, and support

Also, as an international student, how easy is it to settle in and find your group?

Would really appreciate any honest opinions—both positives and negatives.

Thanks!

Hey guys,

I got accepted into OSU for pre-mechanical engineering as an international student, and I’m making my final decision tomorrow.

I’m stuck between OSU and Virginia Tech right now — can you guys convince me why I should pick OSU?

Also, how safe does campus feel day-to-day?

Appreciate it 🙏

Hey guys,

I’m an international student from Qatar and I got accepted to Virginia Tech and The Ohio State for general engineering (planning to go into mechanical). I’m honestly pretty confused between the two and would really appreciate some advice.

Cost isn’t a factor, so I’m mainly looking at things like safety, location, social life, overall student experience, and internship opportunities. I know OSU is in a bigger city while VT is more of a college town, so I’m not sure which would suit me better. I’m also pretty outdoorsy—I like going out with friends, events, etc., but I also enjoy nature, hiking, and staying active.

For my course and overall experience, which one do you think I should consider more, and why? Any insights would really help.

Hey everyone,

I’m an international student planning to study Mechanical Engineering in the U.S., and I’m trying to decide between a few options. I’ve been accepted to Virginia Tech and Ohio State (main campus), and also Penn State, but through the 2+2 plan (2 years at Erie, then 2 years at University Park).

Right now, my top choices are Virginia Tech, Ohio State, and Penn State, but I’m struggling to choose between them. I’m mainly considering factors like location, campus life, overall experience, career opportunities, and safety. Cost is also a factor, but I know it’ll be high everywhere as an international student.

Virginia Tech and Ohio State both seem strong for Mechanical Engineering and offer direct entry to the main campus, while Penn State’s 2+2 pathway makes it a bit different.

For those who have experience or insights, which of these would you recommend and why? How do they compare in terms of student life, opportunities, and overall experience?