Rice University

Rice University is a medium sized private university in Houston, Texas.
Established in 1912, it is known for its research programs in nanotechnology, artificial heart research, structural chemical analysis, and space science. It also has a very strong Engineering school with a a computer science department which has facilities that are among the best in the state.
Why would I go here? Firstly, it is ranked very highly in both the US News and World Report (17th ) and various other surveys which deal with quality of life, happiest students, and best value. Secondly, the BA CS program has a curriculum that interests me.
When it comes to accommodation and dining on campus, the university organises its residence halls into residential colleges. There are 9 in total and most of them have traditional dorm layouts with one or two having suite style layout. The big disadvantage to this place is the university and its housing close over the Winter break between semesters. There are also a wide range of dining choices as well, with a mix of cafes and dining halls (some of them open on the weekend).
For shopping there are many options available. The closest is Rice Village, a shopping area a short walk from the campus. For shopping further afield there is the light rail line which runs through the medical centre into downtown Houston, a block away from the campus in the other direction. Being in a large city, there would be lots of jobs available for CS students, with many top companies based there.
You can find out the courses I would take by clicking on the link below. Course List