<p>So, after much debate and deliberation, I'm leaning toward UT BHP/Plan II over Duke. However, I still have some slight hesitations that I hope to get cleared up. </p>
<p>There's a part of me that feels I'm passing up a chance of a lifetime with Duke, however, by the same token, I feel that BHP is going to offer me tremendous support to get a career. YET, as of now, I'm thinking of investment banking, which Duke would be the absolute leg-up with their huge recruitment and alumni network. </p>
<p>So, to quell my concerns, I was hoping if any current/former BHP (and Plan II, if any of you are out there) students could tell me how it was getting into the career field. Also, I'm hesitant about i-banking (seems a tad bit too superficial and cutthroat even for my taste), so any careers are fine!</p>
<p>I've heard a lot about BHP, but it's all been through the filter of BHP recruitment, so I was hoping to get as unbiased opinion as possible.</p>
<p>Good for you! I was accepted to BHP also, but choosing not to attend due to better financial award at another college.</p>
<p>In terms of recruitment, BHP/Plan II has the same if not better chances than Duke. Investment banking? Duke isn’t even close to that field. What first attracted me to BHP was their small class size (100 people). That seemed like a close knit community within a bigger community. The academic advisers are also EXTREMELY helpful. You’ll want that later on. Duke would not have the “absolute leg up in recruitment and alumni network.” BHP alumni are very active and they really are the top of the top in Texas. In recruiting, BHP students have the leg up in interviews because many top firms come to BHP for students, then down the pyramid to the general business school. </p>
<p>Personally, both schools are excellent. If after financial aid, Duke is cheaper, you should choose Duke. If not, weigh the benefits of both schools. I never been through the filter of BHP recruitment and only heard/applied to it because of the students that are currently in the program. But if you are sure your path is in business/finance/i-banking, I think BHP program will be better for you.</p>
<p>I would vote Duke. A very highly regarded institution. One of those places that opens doors. A top 20 school can change your life. Get you into MBA programs, interviews for certain jobs, that other schools can’t. I was involved in hiring recent gads for a highly competitive training program. A degree from a top school always got interviewed. The rest of the pack, got interviews if they knew someone, or stood way out. Duke will be recognized by all. UT BHP will be known by Texans, and a few smart people. I hate to say it, but I think the universal prestige can be advantageous.</p>
<p>I am a proud UT parent, don’t mean to cause an uproar.</p>
<p>A friend of my daughter graduated last year from BHP/Plan II. His first internship was with USAA and the last several years he interned at GE. GE hired him before graduation and is grooming him to be an exec in Intl Business. He is based in Michigan and spends several months at each of their sites. Another one of her friends is a Senior this year. He is planning to join the family business, but has been wined and dined by multiple corporations. McCombs (esp. BHP) is well known and respected in the business community outside of Texas.
Choose the school that feels like the best fit- that’s where you are most likely to succeed.</p>