MCEpi17

This is what I did too. I considered the quality of coursework, funding package, overall school culture, advisor's work, advisor's attitude and willingness to work closely with me, location (I'm moving with a partner, so he had a say), research opportunities, and publication opportunity. Honestly, I also went with my gut reaction. I have a very good feeling about my working relationship with one of the advisors. Our interests are a good match, she is talented and accomplished, and she is rooting for me! She even increased my stipend to include fees and health insurance (tuition covered by scholarship). An unhelpful advisor is a big fear of mine, having watched friends work on their PhDs in various fields. Plus I already know what research projects I will be working on and I know they interest me. Another fear of mine is committing to a program and having to search for projects I like and maybe not getting them. No, thank you. No surprises, please. Any other criteria people are using?

What were the opportunities for outside research you are describing? Was this at your school, local agencies, or elsewhere over the summer? Just curious as to what may be out there.

I thought so too. Now I have fear of missing out on other opportunities!

That is frustrating. Did you try following up? Therese Carter is the Program Manger. She would know what's up with decisions. I think I saw somewhere that there is a visit day on/around March 29.

My favorite option right now is at Tulane for a PhD in Epi. I have an RA/TA with my advisor on one of her grants working 20 hours/week for $24,000/year. Then over the summer I can work 40hrs/week and make more. They typically recommend max 9 credit hours fall semester and 12 in the spring, which sounds more reasonable to me. Lots of credits from my MPH transfer, putting me in a more relaxed position. Plus I don't have kids. During my MPH I was a full time student and working 30hrs/week. Plus senate and committees. I can't imagine continuing that during a PhD....

Hello Teddy1024, I have been accepted to Tulane Epi PhD. I got a phone call in January, visited in early Feb but only just got the official acceptance letter on March 2. I don't have any information on whether they have selected other students. Sorry! Get in touch with me when you know more! Edit: I will also say that the Chair has been out of the office so that is slowing some paperwork. I haven't received my financial offer in writing yet!

I had not heard of this. Thank you! I have been accepted to the PhD Epidemiology program. Are you planning on visiting on March 31?