optimistic09

I just finished an MSME at USC last May. I am not sure what you mean by the MS program not being as good as the PhD program considering that PhD and MS students take the same courses and work with the same professors. However, many of the students complete a coursework masters and it may be harder to do a thesis MS considering the size of the program, therefore you may want to secure a project before you begin. UCSD is a well respected program. However, I can only really comment on the program at SC. You may want to take into consideration living expenses and career opportunities in the area. Also the program at SC makes it easy for students working and attending school concurrently.

Notre Dame is a well known school in the U.S. However, I think RPI is better known for Engineering. Both are well-respected programs.

I have an interesting situation. I have actually been in a long distance relationship for over five years. My SO is from the city I went to school in but goes to school 300 miles away. I have decided to attend graduate school 3000 miles away from my current location; which to me would not be feasible for a long distance relationship. Although my SO is currently looking for work near where I will be, I am beginning to come to realize that I may not be able to have it all. Hopefully we can remain friends, but I really don't want to have to continue with a long distance relationship.

I think the program not responding says a little about the size of the program. For me I prefer a school where I am able to quickly have a problem solved. One of the schools I was accepted at was very impressive during the visit, however I contacted some of the faculty and not all of them responded, which did turn me off a little. For me it was important to feel that the school was as excited to have me as I was to be there. But, many times the staff do have to field many emails, so you just might want to get more creative with your subject lines.

I don't think it is ever too early. I started contacting people well before I even applied. Plus many professors are applying for and finding out about funding right now, so this would be the perfect time. You will at least be able to find out if the professor you're interested has an opening or not.

I did a master's at SC and think the program is excellent. The importance of the rep of the school is dependent on what it is you want to do after graduation. All of the schools you mentioned would leave you in a good spot for jobs after graduation. USC has an excellent career center and alumni network that is helpful.

You may want to visit the schools to find out more information. You may also want to consider the funding packages. At SC you would earn your master's during the PhD program, you should check out the schedule or classes, or talk to the department directly about that.

Just got an admissions acceptance letter last week. I wasn't sure if the recruitment visit was for interviews or admitted students. I'm guessing it's the latter considering the visit is so late into the admissions process.

Has anyone else been invited or already been to the Mech Eng recruitment day at Georgia Tech? Or anyone admitted?

I am not sure which program you are waiting for but I have heard from the Mechanical Engineering Dept. I received an acceptance letter dated 2/16/09, which is fairly recent.

Did Undergrad and Masters at the University of Southern California GPA: 3.4 MS Length of Degree: 4 yrs BS, 2yrs MS Type of Student Woman: Made in America GRE Scores: Q:780 V:510 W:4.5 Research Experience: 1 summer Awards/Honors/Recognitions: university scholarships Pertinent Activities or Jobs: 3 years industry experience Applying for PhD at: Accepted: Carnegie Mellon, University of Maryland Invited to: Georgia Tech and North Carolina State Waiting: Cornell, Rensselaer, Northwestern, UC Irvine