Harvard Statistics vs Stanford ms&e

<p>Hi all,</p>

<p>I'm a french student, and I got two admissions for masters in Harvard (dept. statistics) and Stanford (ms&e). So yeah, I'm happy, but I don't really know which one to choose, and people around me aren't very helpful on this one (french people simply love Harvard, so for them, there's no point hesitating).</p>

<p>The thing is, I love the course description in Stanford's program, and I believe it would suit me well. Plus I read the class in this department is 300 master students, so I guess I'll be able to meet a lot of very nice people. Also, concerning the statistics at Harvard, it looks like they put a lot of emphasis on their phds, but there doesn't seem to be any career center or stuff like that for those who don't plan to work in academia..</p>

<p>So my question is rather simple: for those who know a little bit about these programs, what are your thoughts? I really love Stanford, but I'm still seduced by Harvard's brandname.. What do americans think about Harvard vs Stanford in my particular case? Is Harvard's network more helpful? </p>

<p>PS: oh, I forgot to mention it but I don't know what I want to do after that.. I know it would help me decide, but I'm still kind of hesitating between banking and tech-related startups, and I would like to opt for the program that could help me best in both cases..</p>

<p>PS2: also, sorry for the spelling, as you might have guessed, english is not my first language..</p>

<p>Thanks a lot guys,</p>

<p>@Abraxasz:</p>

<p>I<code>m not a u.student, now i</code>m just a pupil (9th gr) - and i<code>m an international student too.
Harvard - that</code>s my answer. Because Harvard is a prestigious university. Was, is and will.
But: if u`re sure that you will be accepted to Harvard as a graduate, choose Stanford. Stanford is a good choice for undergradute. </p>

<p>Good lck,man ;)</p>

<p>The OP has already been accepted to both as a postgraduate, and seems cognisant of Harvard’s prestige.</p>

<p>Choose whatever course you like more, is my advice–which seems to be Stanford in this case.</p>

<p>Also, there is a grad school subforum, I believe, where your question is more likely to be answered.</p>

<p>Forget reputation–they are extremely prestigous schools. Spend your time on figuring out which program is a better fit. I would contact the department chair or a professor at both schools and discuss your concerns. They should be very willing to help you.</p>

<p>This is a tough choice. If you want to get into tech, there is no better place than Stanford. If you want banking, Harvard(along with Princeton and Wharton) is tops. Personally, I think I would choose Stanford in your position(just a happier and nicer place to study), but of course, rejecting Harvard is something that is easier said than done. Best of luck.</p>

<p>Hey guys, thank you for your answers.</p>

<p>@WoodrowWilsonJR: I think you are getting the point… Turning down Harvard is a very weird experience… Just thinking about it makes me feel I’m going to regret it forever…</p>

<p>No, the thing is I would really like to know a bit more about:</p>

<ul>
<li>How are master students considered in Harvard’s program?</li>
<li>Is it a friendly place?</li>
</ul>

<p>Qialah is probably right, I should probably contact prof. and
stud. from both school… Thanks for the advice !</p>