How to decide where to go?

[coastazure]

Hello eveyone,

I was rejected by my dream schools. Although I have 3 choices at hand, it is very hard to decide which one to go for. Could you share with me your opinions about what factors are important and their respective weights when making a decision?

I have school A, B and C to consider, all of which are phd programs.

1. Overall reputation of the school: School A has better overall reputation (around top 40) than school B (Top 80), and school C (third tier).

2. Research activities/number of faculty of the department: There is no ranking in my field ( a very narrow specialisation). From the website, I would say school C > School B > School A.

3. Famous scholars in the field (though not really my advisor): School C=School B> School A.

4. Safety/aesthetics of the campus: school B > school A>school C

If you were me, which one would you choose or what criterion will you make your decision upon?

I really appreciate your opinions, so confused now. Thanks a lot!

[History_Nerd]

Based on your own rankings here it seems like school B fairs the best.

[Mnemosyne9]

I recently read this: http://yarinareth.net/Dorothea/gradsch/success.html and found it very useful in making my decision (and really reinforcing my intuitive choice).

[History_Nerd]

The link above is pretty interesting - thanks!