<p>I’m thinking about major in physics and or nuclear engineering. I would definitely like to end up at MIT for grad school (or at least, based on what little I know about grad schools, MIT is tied for the top of that list). I imagine a PhD is necessary for things I’d like to do (professor, researcher type things). </p>
<p>Can you tell me more about the research tech type path for a fourth year? Does that cost me anything? Does it pay me enough for living expenses or leave enough time for a job (even if the job is not in the field eg waiting tables) that would? Would it make up for the lack of connections with profs because of not having that fourth year? It seems like a very good path.</p>
<p>I can only imagine I will not want to leave after three years (or just about any number of years). However, my parents are only paying for two years and after that I’m paying for ~90% with loans and work, so convincing them is not in the picture.</p>