Ph.D Story Time! - How you chose your school

[jaymeowmeow]

I am still pretty new to grad cafe, so I may very well be stepping on the toes of an already existing thread, but what the hay?  I'll give it a go because I love stories! I also love how maybe I can learn from and be enlightened by your experiences.

Tell the story of your Ph.D program decision process. It is 4+ years of your life, so a significant amount of time! Where did you go? What where your other options? How did you end up choosing? Are you happy with your choice? Anything you regret? Who really wins in the location vs. ranking battle (saw some threads in this!)? These are just a few of many possible questions you may address.

Please write about anything. If you feel so kind, any sage advice you can give us incoming candidates would surely be appreciated! Thanks!