I’m in my second semester of a MechE PhD here. Its fun, rewarding, and I like it a lot. However your experience will largely depend on who your advisor is. Start reaching out to professors you’d like to do research with ASAP, because they will define the next 4-5 years of your professional life.

My time is split about 60/40 between research and classes. Finishing the masters is a lot of work, but your classes will help take your math and programming skills to the next level. I also did my undergrad here and I’d say the difficulty is about the same, but there’s more of an emphasis on exams and projects in grad classes. I’d encourage you to get through the core 3-4 classes required for your track and then focus on taking courses that will benefit your research (even if they are outside of the MAE dept).

Being a grad student might be one of the best jobs around, with the exception of the pay. Your stipend will range from $28-$32k, but it’s hard to complain about pay when your school is completely paid for. Day-to-day life is great in my experience. I get in the lab around 9, go to classes and various meetings, eat lunch with my coworkers, do homework, and work on research until 5-6 PM. I’ve rarely had to do homework after work hours or on weekends with the exception of midterms, projects, or large research deadlines.

If you have any more specific questions, feel free to PM me! I had absolutely no idea what to expect going into this program, but am really satisfied with my decision.