Pitt CBA vs. Penn State's Smeal

College Search & Selection
1

As we near the May 1st deadline I find myself being torn with choosing where to spend the next 4 years of my life. I have narrowed it down to Pitt’s College of Business Administration, and Penn State’s Smeal School of Business. I have visited Pitt and am planning to go down to Penn State soon, but I would like to hear from other’s experiences at these schools. I am planning on majoring in Finance with the ultimate goal of landing on Wall Street.

Some factors that are affecting my choice:
-Penn State is more world renowned and prestigious (ranks higher)
-Have to attend Summer Session for Penn State
-Pitt has guaranteed international internships
-Pitt offered me $20k (compared to PSU - $16k)
-I believe Pitt has more opportunity as the city is rapidly developing

I hope to receive the best possible business education I can, so Is the extra cost and time (summer session) justified it to go Penn State over Pitt? All responses are appreciated!

2

My DD was also accepted to both last year. Overall, they are both great schools, with very happy and successful students at each. My DD chose Penn State and loves it. Some reasons:

  • Smeal is ranked a bit higher
  • she wanted a a school with a lot of spirit and big football excitement
  • she wanted a traditional campus

However, PSU requires a 3.5 to declare a Finance major, 3.2 for other business majors. I don’t think Pitt has that requirement. I also appreciated the smaller feel and how they really encouraged studying abroad.

It really comes down to where you want to spend the next 4 years. Good luck