<p>Hello all,</p>
<p>This is my first post on CC, and it regards my college decision. I am planning to study business in college, and I have most likely narrowed it down to between the University of Michigan and the University of Pittsburgh (University of Southern California has yet to give me my financial aid award, but in the case it is not enough):</p>
<p>I was unfortunately not accepted for preferred admission to Ross but am aware that I can re-apply next year as a freshman. At Pitt, I have already been accepted to the Katz Business School. If I were to choose UMich, it would be a big risk, and I would be in quite a dilemma if I were to not get into Ross next year.</p>
<p>I was just wondering, what do you guys think I should do and WHY? Do you think I should take the risk and try out UMich? If I do not get into Ross, what could I do to still be successful in the business field? Will a degree in Economics from Michigan help me at all? On the other hand, what can Pitt offer me? Can I still enjoy success, meaning similar opportunities in terms of internships, networking, and jobs at Pitt?</p>
<p>I am leaning towards Michigan because I know it's ranked much higher for many things, and I believe that I would like Michigan more (just a gut feeling - I haven't visited yet but I plan to do so). Pitt is a good school, but I would really like to go to UMich.</p>
<p>Lastly, the cost is about the same for both schools, Michigan is only slightly more expensive.</p>
<p>Thank you for your input, it is much appreciated!</p>
<p>I do not think a Business degree from Pitt will serve you better than an Econ degree from Michigan. I would go for Michigan over Pitt.</p>
<p>Thank you Alexandre for the reply. As I said, I do like Michigan more, but it’s just a pure feeling. Can you please tell me why you suggest Michigan Econ over Pitt Business? Also what steps could I take to improve my chances of getting into Ross next year? Thanks!</p>
<p>I chose Michigan econ over Pitt finance & assured MBA admittance. Michigan is academically far superior to Pitt.</p>
<p>Thank you, does anyone else have any suggestions?</p>
<p>Hi usc3539,</p>
<p>Welcome to the college confidential world! I feel your dilemma, because what you really wanted, a ross pre admit, has not happended and now you must choose from the choice of Pitt’s school of business or most likely, a Michigan Economics degree. </p>
<p>Even though admittance into Ross is an option for all Michigan freshmen, the statistics that I found showed about a 30% admit rate. And next year, when you are going through the process of an internal transfer, the rate could go down, or up ( although I imagine that to be highly unlikely). Going to Michigan and planning for the business program is a risk and I believe you should assume you would be an econ major at Michigan.</p>
<p>That said, I know Pitt and I can tell you that the University of Pittsburgh’s busines school is well respected locally. The accounting program is newer than let’s say, Penn State’s, but the students place well in the big 4. The school itself is surrounded by a very college friendly area called Oakland - there are many chain restaurants like Chiptole, many fun bars, starbucks, and it is all walkable to you. You would receive a free bus pass enabling you to go to the downtown area (about 5 miles away) or to another fun restaurant/bar area called the Southside. You could probably google it to see where many of the Pitt kids go on a Friday or Saturday night. Comparing all of this to Ann Arbor, I feel that the Pittsburgh area is going to look more conservative, but both places will offer you a quality of life most college students want. </p>
<p>But your ultimate question is for the academic opportunity at each school. I feel that your gut wants Michigan and you have an excitement associated with attending there. It is a more glamorous sounding choice. But if you really want undergraduate business, the sure thing is Pitt. And you should be aware that nearly everyone loves the school and you will be able to enjoy yourself there.</p>