Take Imperial CS or reapply Cambridge

I’m really torn between whether I should take Imperial this year or reapply to Cambridge CS.

Context: international applicant, 4A*s achieved. (Side note - I am very grateful and understand I’m already in a privileged position.)

Last year I was post-interview winter-pooled but didn’t receive an offer, biggest reason probably was I underperformed in the TMUA. I already have Imperial CS which I know is already really good (and I heard the course is more practical which might be better if I’m looking to work in industry, possibly start-ups?), but I just can’t seem to let go of the idea of Cambridge: the countryside environment, traditions and formals, the tutorial system, and greater prestige especially internationally if I’m looking to the U.S. in the future (or correct me if I’m wrong about this). I know there’s still the options for a masters, but that’s only a year.

I understand it’s a big risk if I do reapply as there’s no guarantees for either uni next year. My parents are saying I should go to Imperial but I can’t seem to let go of the feeling that I kind of let myself down and this hope that I maybe could get Cambridge this time. The main thing is I need to do very well on the TMUA this time (which I’m a bit worried about as it’s in two months, I’ve started prep but still gotta do a lot more), and maintain a good interview performance.

Some questions I have:
- your general thoughts?
- what are some outcomes of people who’ve decided to reapply in similar situations?
- is there enough time to prepare for TMUA I think my level rn is similar to last year, I don’t have much olympiad experience, is it realistic to improve much in this remaining time?
- how much more practical is Imperial’s course, and would this provide a meaningful benefit for my more industry-focused goals?
- is there a big discrepancy between prestige in the US tech industry/start-up scene?

I’d REALLY appreciate your thoughts/advice/insight so that I can stop marinating in my own, thank you very much 🙏