I am not able to decide whether I should go to UIUC or Indiana. I am planning to take up a major in the business field. In terms of the business schools, Kelley is better (in my opinion). However, my family and counselors are saying that if you decide to change your major to anything outside business, then UIUC would be better because Indiana is not as reputed as UIUC (as far as I have researched). I personally don’t see myself doing anything other than business. What do you guys think?
UIUC or Indiana?
I think you should ask yourself, which school has the opportunities and environment where you can grow and attain your goals.
I have two children, who are current students at UIUC in the College of Business. They are very happy with the quality of the education they are receiving there…both inside and outside the classroom.
My son had seriously considered Indiana as a Kelley direct admit. He was offered merit money so the out of pocket costs would have been roughly equivalent. However, after attending admitted student day at both schools, he chose UIUC.
The primary reason was the size of Kelley’s incoming class. We were told it would be 1200+. Note: he was not intimidated by the size…his high school has ~4,000 students. It was the possible impact a class of that size would have on his undergraduate experience.
At UIUC my children have been able to find wonderful extra-curricular opportunities that not only broadened their skill set, but also provided a wealth of friendships. You may find it helpful to check out some of the RSOs (registered student organizations) that are available. I’ll link a few to give you an idea of some of them.
https://www.illinoisenactus.com
https://illinoisbusinesscouncil.com
http://www.ibc.illinois.edu
http://www.techmgmt.illinois.edu
https://business.illinois.edu/iba/
These are only a few organizations. My children have friends who chose to develop their leadership skills through their fraternity/sorority or other interest. All of them require an application process. I’m sure Indiana must have similar RSOs, but how 1200 versus 600 students impacts the application process is left for us to imagine.
Another issue for us was study abroad. Comparing the two schools in this area, we felt UIUC had a more established and flexible program. This idea was reinforced when my daughter became close friends with several Kelley kids while abroad in Europe.
The last thing I’ll share is that my daughter, who is graduating in May, was able to attain a fantastic job…a job, some go to a more expensive school in the hope that it would increase their chance for such an opportunity.
Both schools are wonderful. Apply yourself and you can do well. Good luck!
I agree with 88jm19…and my son was down to UIUC and IU Kelley, direct admit, scholarship, etc…and he chose UIUC College of Business. After looking at program quality (accounting or accounting/finance), university quality, in-state cost, and finally, and maybe the deciding factor-opportunity and outcomes (study up on the stats), the decision was clear. No regrets, and he’s off to a great start and very excited and motivated for the years to come. Study abroad advantages were stressed at CoB admitted student day, too, and 88jm19 is on point with that one, especially for the in-state student. Good luck with your decision.
Thank you so much for your opinion 88jm19 and IL2023!
I’ll look at all the links and hopefully I’ll be able to make the correct decision.
You’re welcome, and best of luck. 
Choosing between UIUC CoB and IU Kelley is a nice problem to have.
I agree with IL2023. You have two great opportunities.