Windeolus

Congratulations on your acceptance. As someone who is in some boat of choosing a PhD program in aerospace engineering (I am deciding between Virginia Tech and other schools too). My background is in aerodynamics and structural dynamics so I can give you some input:- 1. Both schools have strong experimental facilities but in different areas. NC state specializes in aerodynamics (more towards high-speed flows) and Virginia Tech in aeroacoustics (amazing facility). 2. Virginia Tech has strong aeroelasticity (structural dynamics) research groups. 3. Blacksburg is an isolated town whereas Raleigh is more of a big city so you could choose according to your preference. 4. Both schools are well respected, even though Virginia Tech is slightly higher, it depends on what would like to do with your MS degree. You can continue for a PhD at both places, though funding might slightly easier at Virginia Tech. In terms of job, Virginia Tech might present better opportunities based on what current students and alumni have told me but I don't know much about NC state. 5. Most importantly it depends upon what area you would like to specialize in. I hope this might be of some help. Let me know if you would like to talk more.

I am having a hard time making this final decision. I am interested in Computational side of research in Aeroelasticity of Rotorcrafts (eVTOL, Wind Turbine). Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Higher stipend but only for 1 year PI is a distinguished professor with a large group and works on exactly the research I want. Supports internships. Most importantly, gives personal time and attention (I require that kind of advising style as I am coming straight from undergrad). PI mentioned that he will be able to extend my funding offer to RA after a semester or two. A better location in terms of the city, food, and groceries. It has an international airport close by plus 2 hrs from NYC, but too cold of the weather. Lower ranked but has great respect in the industry (looking for industrial career) Virginia Tech Good enough stipend for 3 years PI is a distinguished professor with a large group and works on exactly the research I want. Supports internships. But does not give lot of personal time and attention. PI mentioned that he will be able to extend my funding offer to RA after a semester or two. The campus is beautiful, but the city very small and middle of nowhere. The closest airport is a regional airport, and Wash DC is like 4/5 hrs drive. Moderate cold weather. Higher ranked I would really appreciate if anyone could provide me with their feedback. Thank you in advance!

I have got acceptance from both schools with 3 years of funding. Both places have a choice of 3-4 professor who can be my advisor. The area of research - aeroelasticity, wind turbine and smart structure are present in both schools. The funding amount is almost the same. My question is with regards to choice of career after PhD - 1. Academia 2. Industrial Research and 3. National Labs

I have received emails from two schools, one with an admission offer (no funding info yet) and another to visit. Both have the same interview weekend. I accepted the first one when the invitation arrived, and now the second has arrived. Both are top choices in my book, so it's hard to drop one. What can be done about conflicting interview dates for Aero graduate school?