stackleberg cat

Hey everyone, So I've heard back from 2/3 of the schools I applied to so far and currently my top choices are Duke PhD in Statistics and Harvard MS in Data Science. (I think the only other program that hasn't gotten back to me that I would consider in this debate is Stanford MS in Statistics). I'm currently trying to figure out whether research is something that interests me. I did a few research projects in undergrad and from that, I think I'd enjoy doing a PhD but I'm not 100% certain which is why one reason I'm a bit hesitant to jump into Duke's program. Another reason I'm hesitant is because I don't have much experience with Bayesian statistics (but I think it might be interesting). However, Duke is a great school for statistics and I could always drop out after getting a masters. Harvard obviously has a great brand name, but I'm not entirely sure if the Masters in DS is a cash grab program. Also, I'd ideally want a masters program where I can get good research exposure. Harvard does have a thesis option and a couple of research classes, but I'm not sure whether this is a good enough way to hypothesis test whether I'd want to do a PhD? I can't seem to find good information on the Harvard Masters in DS website, so if anyone has any additional information, that would be greatly appreciated Would appreciate any thoughts/advice that people have. Thanks!

Hi everyone! I'm applying for PhD programs in Statistics this cycle and would appreciate some advice. Here's my profile: Undergrad: Top 25 undergrad (US News) Major(s): Economics & Statistics GPA: 3.89 Type of Student: Asian female Relevant Courses: Calculus I-III (A), Linear Algebra (B), Mathematical Proofs (B), Differential Equations (A), Real Analysis I (A), Probability Theory (A), Statistical Inference (A), Statistical Computing (A), Modern Regression (A), Advanced Data Analysis (A), Econometrics I-II (A), and various other economics classes GRE General Test: Q: 167 V: 164 W: 4.5 Programs Applying: Statistics Research Experience: one independent research project, 2 RA roles, no published papers Pertinent Activities or Jobs: TA (2 semesters) Letters of Recommendation: 2 from professors who were also my research advisors, 1 from a statistics professor Other: I graduated a year early from university and spent that year working for a large hedge fund Schools Applying to (all Statistics PhD): UMich, UCLA, Yale, CMU, Rutgers, UCI, UC Davis Do you all think these are a good list of schools given my profile? I am unsure if I should be targeting lower/higher and would appreciate any advice. Thanks!