Shawn Sun

Hi all, Hope everything's going well with your applications, research, and life! I'm an incoming PhD student and just wrapped up a really intense year - completing my master's coursework, thesis, and PhD applications all at once. Now, with my visa secured and housing nearly settled, I suddenly find myself with almost two free months before the PhD starts - and no idea what to do with them. I don't want to work on research, as I'm sure I'll get plenty of that soon. I'm tired of traveling, as I already went on a travel spree over the past month. Even video games are not hitting the spot. It's a strange feeling. This is the last summer before the next big chapter begins, something I've looked forward to for a long time, and now I don't know how to enjoy it. Just wondering: how are you all spending your pre-PhD summer? Would love to hear your thoughts! Best, Shawn

Anyone on the UTA waitlist?

Hi Comrade, Thanks for your thoughtful advice. I really appreciate it. I'll reach out to professors and grad students at both schools as you suggested. Cheers, Shawn

Hi comrades, Hope your PhD applications are going well! I recently received offers from PSU and TAMU. While I intuitively prefer PSU, I want to make a more informed decision through a thorough comparison. Any advice on how to evaluate the two? A bit about me: I studied IR and Econ for undergrad and IR for my master's, both outside the US. My main interest in political economy——topics like economic statecraft, business lobbying, FDI, etc——though I know research interests can evolve. I also hope to strengthen my quant skills in grad school. For what I've gathered, PSU has stronger placements, more stipends, and ranks higher in IR (17), CP (25), and Methods (15), while TAMU has a higher overall PoliSci ranking (28 vs PSU's 34) and is stronger in AP (21). Would love to hear your thoughts——any input would be greatly appreciated! Best, Shawn