Choosing between two engineering programs: public vs ivy

[Latte2016]

Hello all,

I am currently getting into decision making mode and I've narrowed my choices to two programs: one at a fairly prestigious public school and another at an ivy league engineering school. I have completed a master's degree already, so I'm probably looking at 3.5-4 years. I like both schools and locations, but I'm conflicted about which to choose.

The research at the public institution would be better suited to my past research work, in the field of imaging and characterization of fuel cell catalysts. The research at the ivy would be a slight departure from my previous work, and focuses on medical applications in my field. Both positions are funded, but the cost of living is slightly higher at the ivy. The ivy seems to send Phd graduates into post doc / industry / teaching at a 60 / 25 / 15 proportion. This rate is 80 / 20 / 0 at the public school. I would like to work in industry for some time then return to teaching when I am older, but I am not interested in a post doc. I think the public school gives me a quality research experience that will prepare me for industry employment. However, the ivy name and experience may put my record in a nicer light if I choose to later enter the teaching sector.

Another concern, is the type of research group. At the public school I would work with multiple groups in different roles, with some younger professors and some more established ones. At the ivy, it would be with just a single young professor in a small group, with a single research project for the duration of the Phd. Has anyone had tougher experiences in one type of group or another?

 

What are your perspectives? Any advice is greatly appreciated!