UIUC vs. Georgetown

[JoaniePanic]

So I have been doing some research on both programs..and I wanted to hear some of your opinions on the pros and cons of each program.

This is what it looks like from my seat

UIUC --

The 2010 NRC survey ranks it somewhat higher than Gtown,

Urbana is definitely cheaper than DC,

UIUC is much cheaper than Gtown and they seem to be less stingy with the funding.

Gtown --

It has great rep (it's not my main concern..but I'm an international student and Gtown does have a big name outside the US..while Illinois is well known but only by some people around here..so that may affect my job prospects in a way)

They are strong in Discourse Analysis and Pragmatics, their program is more eclectic (and interdisciplinarity is a big plus for me). Deborah Schiffrin is there.

Also..how does UIUC stand in discourse analysis?

Any answer (except for nasty remarks) will be much appreciated!

[fuzzylogician]

General name recognition is important, but what's more important is whether or not future employers you are thinking of know UIUC.

As far as rankings are concerned, I would advise you to ignore them. The relevant question is what you want to study and how each of these schools fits your research interests and agenda.

At this stage in the game, if both are reasonable matches - why not apply to both and see how it plays out?

(sorry I can't help with specific info about either school)