Hello! I was recently accepted for Economics at St. Andrews and I’m feeling very conflicted whether to attend or not. After graduation, I really want to secure a job in the business world, particularly finance. Also, I know I would want to go back to the USA, either to Boston, NYC or SF, from St. Andrews and not stay in the UK. Would you say that it is fairly possible for someone to do that, or would I be better off going to a strong undergraduate business school in the US, like Boston College. Also, if anyone could comment on the general culture of the school and students and maybe how it differs from American colleges and student’s experiences that would be awesome. Thanks so much for your replies!
Going to a UK school and then back to the US for employment shouldn’t pose any particular problem. One of the benefits of going to St A’s over other UK schools is that it has a fairly robust alumni network based around NYC and DC. As well as obtaining a high class degree you should use your breaks to get internships during your vacations. In today’s world I could argue this is more important than where your degree is from (although there are always exceptions). You say you are looking for a career in business and/or finance, make sure the curriculum at St A’s covers the finance angle as economics alone might not be enough. The banks and consultancies will visit campus so make sure you are on top of those recruitment fairs and make sure you use the university careers service to keep up to speed on what is happening on campus and beyond. Good luck on whatever you decide.
IMO, a school like BC would be better if you want to work in the US.
But wait for all offers to come in first.
The banks and consultancies recruit for (well paid) summer internships, which you are eligible for as long as you are a full-time student. They will fit with the UK school calendar better than US internships will. An internship at global name brand firms will set you up well for jobs in the US.