因为我申请的phd都是full time 的并且都获得了funding, 所以我有选择这两个专业的权利。但是我没有选择的权力的是具体的导师(这跟中国的情况不太一样。。。) 我现在在的组里属于analytical方向的。
从个人经验来说我觉得phd in the U.S is extremely competitive but you can make it if you work hard, pay attention to what your adviser wants from you (and other colleagues) as well how much work he/she has for you。 You need a very good command of english and communication skills at any level. I think these are things that help you have an edge on others. I am glad my parents sent me here to study; they did not want to send us back home empty-handed。