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

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision between pursuing a PhD in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) and the University of California San Diego (UCSD). While UIUC is renowned for its mechanical engineering program, the participant expresses a preference for UCSD due to its appealing research opportunities and location in San Diego. The consensus suggests that personal research interests and lifestyle preferences should take precedence over institutional prestige when making this decision.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of PhD program structures in engineering
  • Familiarity with research opportunities in mechanical engineering
  • Knowledge of the academic reputations of UIUC and UCSD
  • Awareness of lifestyle factors influencing graduate school choices
NEXT STEPS
  • Research specific mechanical engineering research groups at UCSD
  • Compare faculty expertise and research funding at UIUC and UCSD
  • Investigate living conditions and cost of living in San Diego versus Urbana-Champaign
  • Explore alumni outcomes and career placements from both institutions
USEFUL FOR

Prospective PhD students in mechanical engineering, academic advisors, and individuals evaluating graduate school options based on research interests and lifestyle preferences.

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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