While I'm still waiting for a reply from Caltech (little chance of getting in IMO), I'd like to ask for opinions on these two. I've been torn between them for quite some time... so help!
Going for: Basing self on Developmental Biology with a possibility of switching to Neurobiology, i.e. undecided (hence applying for umbrella programs) Note that the situation in biology umbrella programs is quite different from a lot of other PhD programs in that you do rotations and only pick a lab afterwards. Also note that I'm pretty weather-neutral, or else it'll be a clear choice.
UCSF (TETRAD)
Pros:
- Close to alma mater w/ resources (Berkeley)
- Insane med school resource
- Easygoing and fun atmosphere among grad students
- Larger choice of labs
- Great neurosciences department (not in TETRAD program though)
- Ranks higher, industry hub right by
Cons:
- Have doubts about faculty atmosphere
- Lack of campus (ahem)
- No other department as resources (granted, that the biochemistry department is large enough)
- Might have doubts on mobility toward neuroscience labs
- High(er) cost of living
U. Chicago (Molecular Biosciences)
Pros:
- At visit, faculty seems to "click" more in conversations
- High mobility with other clusters, i.e. neuroscience
- Great resources to draw from in other departments (statistics, chem, physics etc. are very good and collaborative at Chicago)
- A reasonably high-ranked program (~40s)
- High faculty enthusiasm in recruiting me
- Have a campus
- Low(er) cost of living
Cons:
- Lower ranked (I think most people around me will go WTF if I forgo UCSF for Chicago)
- Smaller program in size
- Little industry connections
- Little chance of utilizing established network among Berkeley people
Been trying to convince myself one way or another for the past week with little result. Any opinions?