BME PhD Decision - Duke vs. Vandy

[wizardofoz]

Hello!

I am highly considering two great schools for biomedical engineering - Duke and Vanderbilt. I have now visited both of them, and I would be very interested to hear what other current/prospective students think of them. I could work in a great lab at both, and like their respective institution/city, so I am feeling rather conflicted when trying to differentiate my 'best fit'. 

I am interested in learning more about everyone's opinion on the 'intangible' aspects at those schools - what they cannot really quantify or the pros/cons based on your experiences.

What are some things you all have considered when making a tough choice between two schools?

What is the student life like at Duke/Vandy? 

What would make one university a more unique learning environment?

Thanks!