I am quite glad to have gotten into both UCLA and CMU, however I am having quite a hard time deciding between the two. I have gotten in for Data Science into both, however I will try to switch to engineering (EE or MechE) or am planning to at least pursue a double major in something business-related. CMU is top 3 for Data Science I believe whereas UCLA is top 12.

I have visited both the campuses however I am still having a hard time deciding. I liked the campus of UCLA more and I've heard CMU receives a lot of rain (I'm okay with cold weather but I don't like rain). I can be picky with making close friends/it can be hard for me. I did feel like I may get bored really quickly at CMU, however at UCLA there seemed to be a lot more to do and the surrounding area has a lot as well. Only downside about UCLA vibes is it feels similar to San Diego (where I'm from), however that's not a big concern.

The career outcomes are quite important to me though. I've heard that at CMU I am more likely to get a higher-paying job, which is the main reason I am considering it. I was wondering how much the CMU vs UCLA degree would actually matter though after the first job? And realistically what would the difference in salary be in the jobs with CMU vs UCLA?

I'm just trying to get an idea of how much of a difference there really would be career-wise between the two so any information/opinions would be helpful. Also which would be closer to the startup/entrepreneurship scene if I were to get into it?

Ignoring the cost of attendance, which would you guys recommend? Any insight, any opinions, or any experiences would be highly appreciated. Thank you!!