The purpose of this study was to uncover and describe the multiple, divergent student viewpoints about an undergraduate mechanical engineering program at a public university in the US Midwest and their persistence in that program. This study uses Q methodology which mixes qualitative and quantitative research aspects to reveal and describe the multiple, unique viewpoints about any topic. Four unique views emerged from the study: 'Smart, successful, but unhappy with program,' 'Faculty, scholarships, and co-ops are key,' 'Excited about engineering but discouraged by curving and grades,' and 'Well prepared but there's a belonging problem.' Consensus across these views indicates a shared desire of these students to have a successful career as a reason to choose engineering as a degree program and to persist in that program. This study demonstrates the diversity of perspectives regarding an undergraduate engineering program and has implications for all engineering undergraduate programs, regardless of their geographic location.