- I have chosen University of Concordia based on below points ( some of which are my assumptions). Got admission in Meng in Software Engineering.
Appreciate if somebody who is well versed with the universities (and their cities) can throw some light. Whether my assumptions are right or wrong.I still have time to change my decision.
Also these points can help other students like me.
CONCORDIA:
Positives:
1> Best city for students.
2> Easily managed without Car/Good public transport.
3> Can manage alone.
4> Rank 500.
5> Software Engineering degree.
6> Work Term available. My assumption is this is similar to Co-op.
7> Well connected with the world.
8> Opportunity to learn new language.
9> More job opportunities for the spouse if from IT background. Assumption is that for IT jobs may be french would not be the requirement.
10> Ottawa is closeby and have IT jobs.
11> Boston/New York within reach. One can atleast apply for IT jobs there and can attend interviews if needed.
12> Heard better reviews of Meng in Software Engineering.
Negatives:
1> Hard to find English Schools for kid (if you have one).
2> PR not Easy.
3> Off campus Jobs Not Easy because of french.
4> For everything you require permission from quebec gov. eg CAQ.
WINDSOR:
Positive:
1> PR easier BUT there is a cap which is filling up before the end of year so no guarantee. Also once the cap is over, the application automatically gets into next year quota but nobody know how much will be the quota and above all there might be the case that when your application is filed, already there will be thousands in the line for that year.
2> No Requirement for permissions.
3> US 15 kms away.
4> French not required.
5> Degree can be completed in 1 year but not recommended.
6> English Schools may not be issue but not sure whether they are good or bad since its a small town.
7> Co-op available
Negative:
1> Less or no jobs in that area for accompanying spouse.
2> Ranked very low. 700+
3> No offcampus jobs for student.
4> Degree in electrical & computer engineering.
5> Staying alone may be tough. Car might be needed in this town.
6> Not connected to outside world directly. Instead toronto is the nearest city for the connectivity
7> Getting job on graduation from here may be tougher than having Concordia graduation.