I recently got into both Notre Dame Mendoza School of Business and the University of Virginia (although they require that students apply for the McIntire school during their second year). Rankings are not relevant; they are both of the same prestige and academic quality. University of Virginia has better Greek life (I am interested in it, but it is not a critical factor), slightly cheaper (not significantly though once financial aid comes into play), better weather, and is easier in terms of travel (I’m from Boston). However, I am not guaranteed admission to the business school, as I have to apply during my sophomore year (on the other hand, I feel like if I apply myself I can get in; the average accepted GPA after the first two years is 3.7).
On the other hand, Notre Dame has an unbelievably active alumni network (more so than UVA), I am already into the business school, I am Catholic, and there seems to be an incredible sense of community. However, the administration is strict (I cannot be in the women’s dorms past 12 on school nights), it does not have a very fun surrounding town, and it may not have the east-coast connections that UVA does (I would like to live in DC or Boston after college).
While this decision should ultimately come down to which “feel” I prefer (as they are relatively different schools, and I visited both last year), I would like some insight regarding the business schools’ placement into careers and graduate schools. Additionally, if anyone is familiar with the McIntire School of Commerce at UVA, I would highly appreciate information about the school’s admissions and whatnot. Any comments and advice are helpful!