<p>Since they're of practically the same rank (which shouldn't be a major factor in your decision anyway), and assuming similar financial aid packages, the only important difference is in fit. Do you have concrete potential advisors at each school? Whose research are you more excited about joining?</p>
<p>An abstract discussion of what is stronger in which school won't really help you here--you need to choose by which would make you happiest and most satisfied that your education is contributing to your desired career.</p>
<p>In addition to what "tkm256" I will add location. Is life affordable on a student package where I will be living? Do I like the weather in MN better than in NC?</p>
<p>I will also add opportunities after graduation and interships during summers availability.</p>
<p>Right, there are similar financial aid packages - none at the moment :-)</p>
<p>Well, it is the "happiest" that is making my mind swing. In UMN, there's the prstige of working with a very famous person in the field. But, there are no other profs in the same field out there. He's the lone one in the field.</p>
<p>Whereas in NCSU, though there are no real bigshot names, there's a research GROUP in my field. </p>
<p>So, when I look at funding oppurtunities, I have more people to approach in NCSU than in UMN, so things slightly swing towards NCSU. Is my argument right? Or am i missing somethng?</p>
<p>Ya climate IS an issue. I'm not a "cold" person, but hey, cant I get used to it?</p>
<p>And where to get reliable information about opportunities after graduation and internships?</p>