Hello,
I have narrowed down my college to American University and San Diego State University. I plan to study Finance and Business Administration (currently a little more interested in finance). However, for AU I have been admitted to the fall mentorship program (I take some classes in the fall and get to intern, then become a full time student in the spring). When I visited AU, I was told that I would be caught up with my classes in the spring semester of freshman year because of some AP credits. As a California resident tuition at SDSU would be significantly cheaper, but I believe AU would be better career wise. Also, (I know this is not a real reason to pick a college), but I feel that American University sounds better to others than SDSU. My main focus is picking the school that would provide me with best career, and I do plan to pursue an MBA. Career wise, I am interested in investment banking, investment firms, or a venture firm. Any advice on which one I should choose?
How important is the cost difference to your family? Will you need to take out loans to attend American University? For investment banking, career prospects are largely prestige based. These aren’t targets, but American is generally regarded as stronger than SDSU.
Not important. My Dad said its okay but I feel that money is money and I do not want to take out so much if it is not worth it. If it is, then yes I will.
American probably has the edge on SDSU but not by much. Curious what the cost difference would be as that would be a factor for me. Also keep in mind SDSU is very friendly with AP credits - not sure how many you have and if that is a factor. Good work experience, good GPA and GMAT, can get you into a top MBA program so outcomes can be similar for both. I would think odds of getting into investment banking similar and challenging from both programs. Any other options on your list??
This may be helpful to you - I have a friend who’s daughter is in the undergrad business program at The University of Utah (similar rankings to your options). She is a finance major and will be taking advantage of an exchange program to attend Cambridge next year. In my opinion this greatly enhances her marketability post graduation. She will graduate in 3 years due to AP credit and plans to work and then wants to go to Wharton for her MBA.
Good luck with your decision!
Thank you! My other options would be Purdue but when I visited, I was informed that most of their business and finance majors are recruited for more industrial companies.
bump
Just how big is the price difference? If you plan on pursuing the MBA - will your parents pay for it if you go to SDSU and save money?