Padma011

I was in the same position, 17th ranked school compared to a 2nd. I ended up choosing the 17th because I knew I would be happier. I had more funding, I got the sense they wanted me more and would be more supportive. I loved the lab group and the opportunities I'd have were amazing (I likely will be able to do field work out in the Pacific Ocean!!). The prof at this school is also younger so he is pretty on top of things especially getting funding and publishing. He was also more outgoing and would definitely introduce me to the right people and help me network. I start there this fall so I can't give any hindsight advice. 
The other school though highly ranked also had some red flags, similar to what you mentioned for your school B. Students weren't super happy and had some issues with the program. The prof was great, but not very outgoing and would probably not introduce me to many people. There were only 2 years of funding offered as well. 
In my opinion, I would much rather be happy with what is going to be several years of your life. Plus, like what's been said, retention of students and sticking through the long haul of a Ph.D is hard for a lot of people. I think the connections you make along the way are definitely more important than the name of the school you went to. 
So I vote school A all the way. Who cares what people think. The important people will be happy for you no matter what you choose. Plus, it's your life, not theirs. You do you! 

This thread is giving me so much life.

I just got into UI at Chicago's Communications Studies PhD! 3 years guaranteed funding! Where they house New Media & Society! I get to stay in Chicago!!!!! I am so excited!

Here you go:
 

Communication PhD https://imgur.com/a/IRf4t
Communication MS https://imgur.com/a/lF6IF

Hi all! 
Applied a few years back to enter in fall 2015. Sent apps to four schools, two rejects (Texas and Pitt), one interview that resulted in rejection (Iowa), and one waitlist that didn't pan out (Colorado). I also sent out an app to Texas State University's mass communication MA program and ended up enrolling there and completing the degree with a digital media concentration. My first MA is from Colorado with a rhetorical focus. I'm working as a lecturer this year and will be sending out apps to begin Fall 2018. Casting a much wider net this time around; ideal programs have a faculty with expertise across rhetoric, media studies and performance studies. Cherry on top if they have journalism expertise as well. Looking at 10-13 schools, but top choices are Utah, Minnesota, and Amherst.