ASU EE vs Rice MECE

I have the opportunity to receive offers from ASU, Rice, UT-Dallas, VT, Ohio State, and UF for Fall 2024. Currently, I am deciding between ASU and Rice and would like to ask for everyone's thoughts. I plan to stay in the United States for employment (with citizenship). Here is my background:

Background: Private university in Taiwan -Electrical and Communication Engineering
Work Experience: 3-4 years of experience in IC design and EDA
Research Area: ECE VLSI and ICS track as the main focus

ASU EE MSE:
Pros:

Renowned for IC design

Located on the West Coast with numerous job opportunities

Large student body with extensive connections

Lower cost of attendance: $52,000 per year (after scholarships)

Cons:

A high student population leads to intense peer competition

Higher cost of living (formation of high-tech clusters)

Dry climate experienced frequent nosebleeds during a one-month stay

Rice MECE:
Pros:

Excellent reputation (especially in MCS)

Smaller student population (though recent expansions have increased enrollment)

Plenty of job opportunities in Texas (Austin and Dallas)

Cons:

Limited course options, but all essential VLSI courses are available

Higher cost of attendance: $60,000 per year (after scholarships)

I appreciate any input or advice you can provide on making this decision. Thank you! #studyabroad #masters #ms #ASU #rice #ece#ms#canada#course#subjext#ece#ms#canada#course#subject