Customized work for PhD - Purdue University

I initially chose Purdue University for a master's degree from the School of Aeronautics and Astronautics which is among the top graduate programs in the USA and provided ample exposure to chart my way into a Ph.D. program. There are a variety of research areas available, however, some research is restricted to US nationals only in the field of aerospace technology. This is also true for aerospace-related jobs in the private sector which also require US citizenship for security reasons. Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Science department at Purdue are among the fastest-growing departments in this field here. Admitted students are well supported through assistantships and fellowships. I chose to get a Ph.D. in Planetary Sciences as I am fascinated by the geologic processes on earth and other solar system bodies. Amazing research is currently happening about the moon, mars, mercury, icy moons, asteroids, and extrasolar planets. Purdue is situated in West Lafayette which is a university town and I like it that way.

Each graduate student can build a customized curriculum based on one's interests. They may include courses from multiple departments and there is an option to create new coursework with the support of a professor where you decide your syllabus. Apart from courses that teach about the fundaments of a particular field of study, there are seminar-like courses that keep students updated with current happenings in the field. Projects in coursework provide hands-on experience and can lead to a research article by itself. Students are consistently encouraged to apply for fellowships and awards at department, state, national, and international levels. Research work leads to attending and presenting at many conferences which adds great value to your study. There is also an opportunity to gain experience in teaching by lecturing a freshmen-level course.

My score: GRE 151 Verbal 168 Quant 2.5 Writing; TOEFL 105/120. Admission requirements: GRE not required by Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Science Department, but will be viewed when submitted; TOEFL required by non-native speakers.

Post completion of the Ph.D, students apply for post-doc opportunities and seek jobs where skills learned as a researcher can be utilized such as programming, data analysis, etc. Some take up teaching or administrative roles in colleges/universities and relevant organizations.

Not yet.

Purdue has an enormous campus and has many schools and departments. This creates a wonderful atmosphere for any interdisciplinary study. There are numerous student clubs which caters to enriching both academic and cultural aspects of being on campus. Some libraries are open 24 hours and university WIFI is available all around the campus which gives great access to scientific journals. Purdue also has its own airport where students interested to become pilots take flying lessons. Super-markets, stores (Indian/Asian), food outlets are easily accessible using the free bus service for students. COREC is world-class sport facility on campus which is a great place to exercise and stay fit.

Approximately tuition fee is $16,000/- per semester for international student which is waived off if you secure a fellowship or an assistantship.

Future Investigator in NASA Earth and Space Science and Technology (FINESST) 36,000$/year. As Ph.D student, you work with your advisor and propose a potential research to NASA.

Faculty, apart from being among the best in respective field are enthusiastic about teaching and encourage original thinking and ideas. Contacting faculty is always easy, either through emails or visiting them during office hours. They encourage a healthy work-life balance and are considerate towards unique challenges that each student faces.

Graduate students have an option to stay on campus in graduate housing and the rent includes all expenses including electricity, water, and WIFI. There is option to share a 2 bedroom apartment ($580) with another student or have the entire place for oneself ($750). The facilities include a kitchen with refrigerator, stove, and oven. Separate laundry is provided in each apartment. Bedrooms are provided with cupboards, bed, mattress, and lamps.