BME - Cornell, Columbia, UMich, or UC Davis?

[Decaff]

Hi everyone!

 

I'm still debating between the 4 schools in the subject line. Any insight into what you would choose?

 

I like Cornell's program structure the best (no quals?!??) and I did a summer program there and loved it. Still, I like the research project at Columbia the best and would love to live in the city. UMich offered me a fellowship that basically covers everything, and the PI really wants me to work for him, so his enthusiasm is kind of contagious. Davis also has great projects, and my undergrad PI used to work with a PI at Davis so I know the research is similar and that I will like it. As you can see, I'm very torn and the decision deadline is this week! Please let me know your thoughts!

[jeffleung1992]

I cannot directly answer your question, but what I will say is that for a PhD (I'm assuming this is PhD) the most important thing is the project/research you're doing followed by the relationship with the PI. At the end of the day you want to go to a program where you will get to do the science that really excites you and will help you achieve your career goals. A good relationship with your PI will help you get a good job when you graduate (provided your PI has connections and will vouch for you). If you don't have a good match to research at a school then you shouldn't pick it.

I think money or courses you can take, etc. are all secondary. Finally, I also think the place you will live is worth considering since you'll be committing to be there for 5-some years.

You mentioned that you liked the project at Columbia "the best." If they are giving you funding then I think you have your answer. Btw if any of those schools aren't funding you then just cross them off your list; you shouldn't pay for a PhD.

Congrats and best wishes!

[Decaff]

Yeah sorry I forgot to mention, it is for PhD programs and they are all funded. However, most are funded the first year and then the PI/lab will take over the funding. Likely, I will apply for NSF/alternative funding after the first year. At Michigan though, the fellowship guarantees funding for 5 years.

 

All in all, I think I have narrowed it down to Columbia and Michigan. While Michigan is ranked higher (it's 10th vs 20th for Columbia), I am more interested in the research project at Columbia. However, the lab at Columbia is small/cramped and the PI at Michigan is more recognized in the BME community. He has a lab of about 30 post-docs/PIs, which is a lot bigger than I am used to, but he seems really dedicated to interacting with his students individually. I am just concerned that with such a big lab, he won't be able to give me as much guidance as the PI at Columbia. I'm really grateful for these options, I just wish there was an obvious choice between the two!

 

Thanks for the advice!