geekerjoy

Funding/finances are a big part of the decision making process. I know that I personally don’t want to go into (more) debt over a PhD program, so when I made my choice, making a budget and finding affordable housing was a big part of that. Now, that’s not to say it’s the ONLY factor, because it certainly shouldn’t be. My best recommendations would be 1) to make a budget and weigh that option against a cheaper and/or possibly better funded location/school, 2) make sure you’re picking the best school for you, and not just considering the name and reputation or the funding. Both reputation and funding are huge parts of the process, but really can’t be the only considerations. Make sure you’re considering what professors you want to work with, who will actually be helpful for you and the work you want to do. Consider if the pedagogical approach of the school aligns with your interests. Which school will ACTUALLY set you up best for success? You probably considered a lot of this as you were applying, but I think that it’s important to return to this, rather than looking just at the funding vs. reputation. Hope this helps! Good luck!

I completely understand, mrbabaee. Thanks for letting me know!

I'm not really familiar with the program at BGSU. If you're worried about budgeting, you might want to try to see just generally what apartments run there. I've been casually looking around the places I've applied on sites like zillow or craiglist to get a feel, which might be helpful to ease your nerves, and determine whether it's a viable option or not. I'm curious, when did you hear back from Brown? Sorry I couldn't be of more help with BGSU!

Nothing good. I'm okay with it too, and I'm also looking forward to what's next!

I'm sorry to hear that TAPS 2016, I hope you have a lot of luck with the next one!

Anyone hear anything? I feel like there was a flurry of activity early in the week and then it's gone a bit silent. Which of course is making my imagination run wild...

Hi everyone! I applied to TAPS PhD programs this year, too! I applied to Brown, U.C. Berkeley and the University of Maryland.