If ME is your Major, and all the mfg's are near Detroit, you would be amazed at what Purdue can offer. I would never go to a school based on their ability to make food....although Purdue does have a Restaurant and Hotel Mngt BS.
Purdue is an Engineering School. I respect your option of staying close to home, but remember that your choice is about your future....
Purdue also has major automotive facilities close by....There's a Subaru plant in LAF, as well as being close to those in DET.... There is a new Honda plant just south as well...so there is alot of automotive within 2-3 hours of Purdue to intern at....just an FYI
VT is awesome as well.