Stanford vs. MIT for ChemE PhD?

[barbarr]

I feel Stanford will lead to a greater quality of life because of its overall feel, but MIT will push me to my maximum potential because of the rigor and the abundance of research that goes on there. I'm still at the point where I really can't decide between the two. There are several great advisers I could have at both schools whose research matches my interests.

Any suggestions for how to make this decision?

[launchvehicle]

If the research and academic fit are equal, I would start considering external factors like weather, location, etc. I'm in a similar position and for me, the weather is one of the deciding factors. Have you visited either school yet? Visiting can really change your mind about a school; my fourth choice became my top choice after a visit.

[cottonbuds100pcs]

5 hours ago, DiscoTech said:

Apply. Get in. Figure out which advisors are willing to take you on at each school. Come back here and post then. 

Decisions are easier to make when they aren't make believe.

eh, what are you talking about? the person in question already got in?

[DiscoTech]

9 minutes ago, cottonbuds100pcs said:

eh, what are you talking about? the person in question already got in?

My bad. Didn't check timestamp on an earlier post from OP.

[TheMostPowerfulApplicant]

Both are equal in terms of helping you reach your potential. Go with Stanford for the better weather and options to pivot to Tech if you realize that academia is not for you.