Continuing to a PhD after MS

[tasteomycheese]

Hi Everyone,

I am one quarter away from finishing my master's thesis and graduating with my master's degree in EE/CE (Embedded Systems/Reconfigurable Computing focus). The professor that I've been RAing for has told me that he is willing to write me a very good letter of recommendation, which along with my stats should give me a good chance at any PhD program I choose.

So now I'm in a bit of a conundrum. I've really enjoyed working with this professor and he has helped me tremendously (advising me through undergrad and funding my MS). I can continue at my current institution should I choose (with funding), but I'm not sure if I should look elsewhere for my PhD.

Firstly, all 3 of my degrees would be from the same institution if I stay and I realize that is frowned upon in academia. Secondly, the school I am currently attending is ranked in the mid-twenties and I'd really like to attend one of the top 10 (maybe top 5) schools for the opportunities that it may bring.

I am trying to justify a decision and I will probably be applying to all schools of interest anyways, but I'd really appreciate it if you guys can provide me some advice/insight on what you would do in my situation.

[noojens]

Tell your prof what you're thinking and get his advice. Apply to top 5-10 schools and to your current school as well; see where you get in, where you get funding, visit schools, meet professors you'd like to work with, talk to their current students and recent grads, etc etc.