My question is -- how much of a benefit is there in having a famous POI? I'm deciding between two PhD programs - one with a POI who is, undoubtedly, #1 in my subfield. He is extremely well-known, even outside of sociology. For years, I've dreamed of working with him. However, I don't have a great vibe about the department as a whole, and I worried that with his national and international speaking engagements and other obligations, he wouldn't have as much time to really dedicate himself to mentorship - I'd have to seek that from other faculty. I think that his status would be greatly beneficial in getting a job - his contacts, publishing with him, etc -- but the other program offered me more money, is ranked slightly better, and I have a very good "feeling" about the department. I suspect that I might be happier in the other program, but I also think that the long-term reward would matter more than my grad student experience for a few years.
What's the reward to having a very famous POI? Any current grads care to weigh in? I am extremely worried that I would be making a huge career mistake if I turn down the opportunity to work for him and publish with him. It seems impossible to turn down! But I do have a great feeling about the other program, too. I am very conflicted - please help!