Could anyone help me complete my list?

College Search & Selection
1

Hi,

I am extremely interested in the field of Economics and the field of Business. Right now my list of colleges needs help. Currently, I am applying to Duke, Boston University, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, Columbia, and the University of Chicago. These I know for a fact I am at least applying to. But then I’ve considered schools like NYU and Vanderbilt. I could really use some help.

I would prefer more of an urban area. But I am not opposed to anything else. My GPA and SAT are within range for the schools that I have listed and I have extracurriculars that balance out my application. I’ve thought a couple Ivy leagues (Columbia and Princeton) and at most I would apply to two. I just want to go to a college where I don’t end up depressed for 4 years. I want to go somewhere enjoyable but with a higher level of education.

If there are any current college students, prospective, or alumni, I could really use your perspective. Any suggestions as to which schools I should apply to?

Also, I’ve seen a lot of people taking issue with the University of Chicago. Many saying that it doesn’t prepare you for the job market and that it hurts your chances at a higher level graduate school. Is there any truth to this?

Thank you.

2

Have you considered UC-Berkeley, Carngie Mellon, UT-Austin, UVA, or Indiana? The first 2 are pretty competitive and are fairly cutthroat. The last 3 are state schools and are also fairly competitive, but are definitely more chilled out in terms of academic competitiveness.

3

–What are your stats?
–What is your financial situation?
–Home state?

4

What would make a school enjoyable to you? Maybe add your state flagship.

According to payscale U Chicago students do just fine in terms of salary.

http://www.payscale.com/college-salary-report/bachelors

5

Good list. Have you considered LACs? While most don’t have business schools they do have very strong Economics departments. Especially if you’re considering going on to grad school, an LAC could be great, and some are near urban areas (depending on how “urban” you need).

I’d second the mention of UT-Austin (Combs), UVA, and IU-Kelley. Notre Dame is also excellent, though not urban. Villanova if you want a good safety.