maper

Thanks again, kaveh Yeah, actually I think I'm happy with working on problems in an economics and game theoretical setting, whether or not they are related to any actual applications. As you pointed out, I'll try write my interests broadly, especially for places with fewer faculty working on econ. Just out of curiosity, do you know the number of people that some top universities accept for their PhD programs, for theory? Since you're doing a PhD yourself, I just thought you might be aware of that for some places.

Thanks so much for your response, Kaveh! It is very helpful to me. So what do you think I should write in my Personal Statement as my "area of interest". I've got to have some sentences like "My next goal is to pursue a PhD in computer science, particularly in the field of ____" or "School X is the best place for me to study ___". What do you think should go into the blanks? If I put in "theoretical computer science", would that be too broad? (I'm afraid it might sound like "I'm gonna pursue a PhD in AI", which sounds to me really, really broad) Or should I put in something like "theoretical computer science with economics applications"? Would that be too narrow? You (or others) can suggest other phrasings too. Thanks again!

I'm a undergrad in the US, majoring in computer science and math, and I'm doing an integrated Master's program next year. I'm interested in applying for PhD in Theoretical Computer Science, probably in the area with economics applications. I've taken 2-3 classes in CS Theory and a few in econ/game theory (I have a minor in econ too) and like the nature of the area. I have research experience in CS but the research is more toward implementing software. This research allows me to know a professor well and I'll ask him for a recommendation. I've also done a short research-oriented project in a grad theory class, and I'll probably ask that professor for a rec too. What I'm now worried about is: I have no idea what will go into my research statement. I know I'd like to work in that area, but I don't know what specifically. Also, I don't know how I could relate my implementation-oriented project into the statement -- maybe it doesn't fit at all. I should probably mention the research-oriented in-class project in the statement. Any suggestions?