EMORY vs. DUKE?

[Synaptastic]

EMORY

- AMAZING research fit; for my *very* specific subfield/research interests, absolutely the best

- Great POI, LOVE her. Have already established great relationship. She is practically already advising me, given me lots of great advice. Very easy to get in touch with.

- Already visited, LOVE the department, supportive atmosphere, and current grad students.

- VERY well funded, particularly in my field. Guaranteed during full stay, plus all international conference travel, etc. covered. POI has new 13 million dollar grant, which covers my research as well.

- Interdisciplinary. My main department is a rising star, but not yet firmly planted in the top (certainly on its way). My secondary department is incredibly well-ranked.

- Con: It's in Atlanta... ugh. However, everyone I know swears living here is a non-issue.

DUKE

- Department is ranked VERY high in my field.

- Research compromise: I would have to change my research a bit... my POI is very well known for his research, but it would completely change the focus of my research... while it is still incredibly exciting, in my heart, I know its exactly what I want (don't get me wrong though, what he does is incredible. But let's just say a lot of training that I have spent so much time and effort acquiring would pretty much be abandoned).

- Have not had as much contact with POI, but he has an EXCELLENT reputation for being a great adviser and a really swell dude all around.

- No word on funding yet, but probably very good.

- Had some communication issues with the department, but people seem very nice.

- Would have to give up the interdisciplinary aspect that I get at Emory.

- Did not get a chance to visit, so less of an emotional commitment.

- Raleigh/ Durham seems to fit my lifestyle better, but of course I'm only guessing here. I am an outdoorsy/not a fan of big cities kind of gal. Very much into green lifestyle.

BOTTOM LINE:

1.) EMORY- PERFECT RESEARCH FIT, BEST reputation and training for my specific sub-sub-field?!?

OR...

2.) DUKE - OVERALL DEPARTMENT has the best ranking/reputation, would compromise on research.

Help me... please?!? thanks all.

[origin415]

It seems that there are only two problems you have with Emory, that its overall reputation isn't as good, and its location isn't as good.

As for overall reputation, I don't think this matters as much, as your research is going to be what people look at. If you enjoy the subject, your research is going to be better regardless of the perceived quality of the department as a whole.

As for location, you already visited, can you see yourself living there? If you are going to be unhappy in Atlanta despite your department, then its a serious consideration, if its just that you would prefer Duke then I don't think its a deciding factor.

Edited March 21, 2010 by origin415

[Penguins]

I went to undergrad at Emory, and I'd be happy to answer any questions you'd have about living there.

I don't know what the ugh Atlanta is about. It's consistently rated as one of the best "bang for your buck" cities to live in cost of living wise and Emory's campus and the surrounding neighborhoods are simply gorgeous.

Please message me if you have any questions.

[Synaptastic]

Thank you so much for your responses!

I'm sorry, Penguins... I guess I should add that I grew up in the South (albeit a different part) and make a vow never to return. However, that was long ago, and I have heard many great things about Atlanta. I guess I just never pictured myself living there before.

I would LOVE to hear more feedback about Atlanta! I like outdoorsy activities. I would love to be near trails, hiking, etc. Does anyone have any feedback? Which neighborhoods would you recommend?

Thanks!

[origin415]

Those questions about atlanta might see a bigger response if you ask them in the city guide section. In fact, theres a lot of information there already: