Hi everyone!
I am an international student and I am struggling to choose between two PhD programs: UCSD Biological Sciences and Northwestern Interdepartmental Neuroscience (NUIN). I am mostly interested in developmental neuroscience, so I would follow the neurobiology track at UCSD (I was rejected at their neuroscience program).
At first, I was sure I was going to UCSD, because of great possible PIs and, hey, it's San Diego. But now, I'm more inclined towards Northwestern, because they really seem to care more about their students training and they are making every effort to bring me to their program.
Some info about me:
- Getting an excellent training that will prepare me for an academic career is my priority, but since we're talking about the next 5-6 years of my life, I would also like to live in a nice place.
- I did 1 year of research at Case Western, so I had a taste of the Midwest. I never lived in the west coast.
- I don't hate winter, but I'm happier when the weather is nice.
- I'm an outdoors person, so visiting national parks will be my #1 free time activity in the US.
- The Chicago campus of Northwestern does not please me, although the Evanston campus is nice. Unfortunately, the PIs I liked work in Chicago.
So, weather-wise and location-wise, I would prefer UCSD. But it seems that academic-wise, Northwestern would be a better fit. What do you guys think?
All advice is highly appreciated!