Hey everyone,
So I was accepted to a top 15 MechE Ph.D. program (yah...), however they only offered me a 25% TA, basically half a normal stipend, half of tuition. I have already suffered some big loan and hardships finishing my Masters and I don't wish to do it again. The university is also in an expensive city to live. Needless to say I was rather disappointing, I would rank this program #3 on my list. They offered to pay/fly/hotel/meals for a 2 day visit.
The other program is also a top 15 program, I would say it is #1/2 on my list. I have NOT been accepted, however they offered to pay the same as the first program to fly/hotel/meals for interviews, meeting students, etc. The only difference between each programs 2 day event is this one has interviews.
I'm trying to decide which to go too. I think the one I have not been accepted to is the way to go. In a way it's a dream school of mine, and I feel if they are offering to pay to visit (they only offered 10 applicants out of 100's) it is a great sign. Additionally, one of the things (not to brag) I excel at is in person conversations, and showing my older age as a mature student.
The only thing not making me say YES, 100%, is my hopes of going to the first school I was accepted and trying to snag a 25% RA assignment by meeting faculty.
Anyone have thoughts? I'm feeling like I just needed to let this out and discuss at the very least, but if someone had a thought let me know. Again I'm in Engineering and competitive for most top 20 programs, so I was expecting to be full funded with a TA/RA.
