While I did not plan on tailoring this thread towards my decision, I broadly want to look at economic growth, social welfare policies and public sector spending, potentially even some human capital work (my interests are broad, I know. But luckily the season went well, hence, the intent to make this thread quite general.)
But aside from my interest, maybe people can give some general advice about the departments. After all, research proposals can change dramatically and the highly acclaimed "fit" should not induce one to attend, say, a department with weak financing or a lack of rigorous method training (not that that's the case with any of the above institutions).
So, if possible, how would you rank places 4-12 if US news asked for your opinion. Alternatively, if that is easier, what would a SWOT analysis for these departments look like?
Thanks again!