Hi, folk!
I have a difficult time deciding between the two programs, so I write this post to gather some ideas toward a decision.
UCLA
Rank:32
No scholarship. However, there seems to be opportunity for TA and RA for master student according to one of my friend who is a PhD student there. And the tuition is relatively low, about 30,000/yr for international student.
There's a PI who I have great interest in but I am not sure I can get in his lab. I decide to contact him after I have accepted my offer so that it will not seem rude if I choose to attend another school.
I do not quite like big city like LA, because I am afraid the strong atmosphere for industry and business, though that means a lot of opportunities. However, I prefer places with a combination of industry and academy.
The admission office seems more friendly and happy for my attending. They answer questions promptly.
Boston U
Rank:9
No scholarship. The tuition is ridiculously high. According to the admission office, Master students have limited opportunities to get the TA/RA tuition. All have been assigned at the time of decision and I did not get one. Moreover, my friend in Economics in BU told me that the funding for TA/RA is very low.
There's two PI I am interested in but not very very interested in. And I have e-mailed one of them, but never heard back.
However, I really like the city of Boston --- prestigious schools and industry hubs. And I heard that there will be more big pharma recruiting in Boston area than LA?
The admission office never answer my question very accurately, just general answer.
I am struggling and I hope you can give me some advices or what you have known about those schools. I need to make decision soon to contact the PI of my interest in both school. Thank you!