wintergreen

Wuh. I had such a hard time to decide. But now, it's done, virtually in the last minute. And I so much hope that I made the right decision! By the way, do you guys already look for or find a place to live in Chapel Hill?? Greetings!

Will be coming to Carolina for Political Science...!

Hi, thanks for sharing you thoughts with me! In regard to the placement-question in my field/subfield: It's hard to single out the placement record in the subfield (no, I didn't use it interchangeably) - only Duke offers information on the subfields of people that were placed recently. But it seems like the same thing is true for the subfield than is true for the general field, at least from what I hear from very recently placed UNC-PhD's... (i.e. where they ended up)

I live in Europe and have similar problems. However, I contacted the programs and they said acceptances can be sent via email, even though the signed paperwork needs to follow via postal service (but in this case, it can arrive after April-15th). Why don't you ask what is alright for them?

I turned down Stony Brook a couple of days ago. Good luck to everyone...

Hello, I know, questions like that have been asked so many times on this board already... but I'd sincerely appreciate any advice you might be willing to offer! At this point, I visited both schools, I talked to people at both places, I talked to former professors of mine... and I still can't sign the paperwork for either of the places. Since UNC offered me a great fellowship, the financial side does not play too much of a role, although UNC's package is (surprisingly!) better - more money, less work. I know that Duke has a great reputation, better ranking, is a great (private-)school, and offers a lot in terms of training, connections, content...whatever. But then again, my match seems to be much better with what UNC offers in the subfield that I am interested in. They even have a center that focuses on the specific world region I am interested in. But then again, I am still somewhat open in regard to my research agenda - even though I am interested in this region, I am open to new questions, new issues... Besides, Duke's placement record in my field is better. The grads that went there have to decide between Princeton, Duke and the like - not quite the same at UNC! Yet, when I was there, I had the feeling that I have a better (personal) connection with both grads and faculty members at UNC. The faculty at UNC seemed to be much more interested in me; but this could be due to them knowing more lobbying is necessary to get people to their place, while people come to Duke anyway. Also, Chapel Hill seems to be a nicer place to spend 4 or 5 years. Given the better match, connection to the people and the living situation, I am leaning to the UNC. However, I could not yet sign the paperwork, because getting into Duke seems to be kind of big chance that I should not let pass easily... that's my big problem!! So, what would you do? Can you give me any advice? Is it alright to "let the chance" pass and go to the school where I am leaning to...? Thanks so much for your help!