The Research opportunity is competitive for Ms student, but it still exists chances. Some of my friends got acceptance to the PhD program after the Ms.
I think CMU is a great place for learning. Everybody is hardworking. Everybody talks about computer science. It would be a good place especially for those who love programming.
PhD applicant here.
I have applied to the civil engineering program (structural engineering direction) in several universities in the US. Just receive some invitations to the open house. No official offer yet! Currently I am the MS student in CMU. Good to hear your acceptance to CMU!
Good luck to you all!