Picking correct graduate school for PhD in EE

[humanjigsaw]

I hope some of you can provide me different opinions regarding the dilemma I face now. I am about to begin life as a graduate student majoring in Electrical Engineering; my goal is a PhD. Of the schools that I have been accepted into there are two schools I am trying to decide between.

One of the schools is in the Top 15 EE Graduate Schools with a highly reputable research program. The second school is in the Top 60 EE Graduate Schools - I have been offered a full fellowship/stipend to complete my studies at this school. Both schools have their research programs funded by the NSF (and equivalent organizations) and they both conduct research in the area I am interested in. The reason I mention the ranking these schools reside in is because I have heard numerous people mention the importance of the ranking/prestige of the school you receive a PhD from; especially if you are considering a career in academia.

I am not concerned about external factors such as location of the schools - both schools are in locales I would enjoy living in.

If any of you were faced with this decision which would you choose. While I am able to obtain a loan that would fund my graduate studies; do you think such a move is worthwhile in the long run?

Am I being too concerned about prestige when I should be grateful I am being offered a full ride scholarship to pursue my studies in something I am truly interested in?

Any opinions/personal anecdotes/suggestions would help.

Thanks!

 

[R.Mesri]

When making a decision like this, it is important to consider both the short-term and long-term impacts of your choice. In the short-term, a full ride scholarship is certainly worth considering as it will save you the cost of loans and other debts associated with higher education. However, in the long-term, you should also consider the potential benefits of attending the higher ranked school. A degree from a top school may offer you access to more prestigious academic and professional opportunities, such as fellowships, research grants, and job prospects. Additionally, the quality of the faculty and facilities at a highly ranked school can be significantly better than those at a lower ranked one. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which path to take. Consider carefully all the pros and cons of both options and make sure to consult with advisors or mentors to get their perspectives before making your decision. Good luck!