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I don't have any insight on those particular programs, but I'm choosing among graduate programs with a similar predicament. Here's what I've learned regarding ranking: don't just look at the school's ranking, also look at how well-known your potential PI is among her/his network. A well-respected PI within your research subject can come from any school. As for your concern about liking the PI/school atmosphere at Rice versus GA Tech, don't forget that you'll have to work with the people at your school of choice for 4+ years and that the day-to-day things make up the bulk of your experience. Good luck!

Hi all, perhaps you can help me out. I applied to four graduate schools for a PhD in mechanical engineering (two offers, one reject, and one waitlist) and until yesterday I thought I had my decision pretty much made (although I haven't accepted anything yet). However, now that I've been awarded an NSF GRF I'm confused: I've been told to approach my "dream schools" and a professor at Georgia Tech even reached out to me despite the fact that I didn't apply there. Am I really able to email prestigious universities and ask them to admit me based on my NSF award? Also, doesn't that seem to be rushing things? I applied to my four schools because I have been talking with them for months...even before I sent in my applications.

I applied to UMich, MSU, CU Boulder, and MIT for a PhD in ME. So far I've had one interview with a UMich prof (mid-December, haven't heard anything since then) and received an invite to CU Boulder's virtual applicant visit (taking place in February). I'm wishing everyone good luck!

Hi all, I'm updating my resume for my Mechanical Engineering PhD applications. When looking for industry jobs I always highlighted that I'm an "active team player" in my summary statement, even though I have had multiple experiences working both independently and in a team. From what I hear, grad school encompasses both teamwork and independence. I'm working to include both attributes in my statement, but which do you recommend I stress more? Thanks!

I am writing my applications for graduate school and want to email potential advisors to introduce myself and maybe ask some questions. On some professors' websites they say to send them a copy of my resume/CV, but many websites give no direction. What are the conventions for reaching out to a potential advisor for the first time? Should I ask them questions about their research or just start off by ask if they are accepting new students? Thanks in advance!

Hi All, I am looking for some ideas as to what PhD programs I should consider applying to for Fall 2021. Any input is greatly appreciated! Research Motivation: I want to make it easier for people to live more sustainably, as it relates to both to the environment and mental well-being. After some good self-reflection, I have found this to be my goal because I am seeking out the human side of engineering and striving towards harmony with the environment. I can see myself working towards my goal through the water/energy/food nexus (vertical farming looks cool), green buildings (I’m thinking about LEED stuff), or tackling some issues with microplastics (is this even possible as an ME?). I am very much open to more ideas. Motivation for Graduate School: A feeling that I need to do it for myself…like jumping right into the workforce and settling there accomplishes one goal but neglects something else. I’m also seeking an opportunity to meet like-minded people—I couldn’t seem to find people at my undergrad school that were as deep of a thinker as me, and the lack of meaningful conversation was pretty isolating. Of course, a big motivation for grad school is to get to the forefront of sustainability. I am actively job searching and would like to get a taste of working in industry for about a year, but grad school still feels like the primary goal. My Academic and Research Background: I graduated this year with a BS in Mechanical Engineering with a Concentration in Energy from a medium-sized, local, and academically focused university in the US. I have a strong GPA (3.99/4.0) and a close connection to several professors for good recommendation letters. I am taking the GRE in August, so I can provide an update with scores, but my PP2 was 169Q/158V. I’ve had two research experiences: a 2-year engagement with an ECE lab at my school (no papers written, but I received a fellowship and presented a few posters), and a summer internship at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. If anyone has any program/department recommendations for me, I’d really appreciate it. Thank you in advance!