Deciding Where to Go for PhD in Mechanical Engineering: UIUC or UCSD?

AI Thread Summary
Choosing between UIUC and UCSD for a PhD in mechanical engineering involves weighing the reputation of the programs against personal research interests. While UIUC is well-known in the field, UCSD offers appealing research opportunities that may align better with individual goals. The discussion emphasizes that the name of the institution is not the sole factor in decision-making, as both schools have strong reputations. Additionally, the location of UCSD in San Diego is viewed as a significant advantage over Urbana-Champaign. Ultimately, the decision should prioritize research alignment and personal preferences over institutional prestige.
hanson
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Hi all
I am reaching the final stage of deciding which school to go for PhD in mechanical engineering.
Though UIUC is having a big name in mechanical engineering, I think I am going to UCSD for the seemingly more interesting research there...
Would it sounds very ridiculous or what?
What do you guys think?
 
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If you know for sure what you want to do research in or there are many more things at UCSD that interest you, go there. Name doesn't mean everything and those schools both have good names anyways. If location matters (it seems like it doesn't), I would much rather live in San Diego than Urbana-Champaign (middle of nowhere).
 

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