Hello all,
I am currently at that point where I’ve been accepted to multiple schools and must decide on the best choice school for my next 4 years. I want to major in Finance as of now, and eventually head into banking, private equity, and/or management consulting. These are my options:
1)UPenn Wharton - obviously one of the best, however, didn’t give too great money (would have to pay approx. 30K a year)
2)UNC Chapel Hill Kenan Flagler - full ride here, more “second-tier” in terms of rankings but still a reputable and well-rounded school
3)UMichigan Ross - almost full ride here, more highly regarded than UNC and has a great BBA program
4)Georgetown McDonough - giving a solid amount of money (would cost approx. 10-15K a year), and has a very strong business program in the heart of Washington
These are the schools I am looking at right now - and clearly there are several other pros and cons of each school - I just listed the main points. I am looking for a well-rounded school where I can excel despite the major/career I choose. I would really love to gather multiple opinions over this issue, as there are many other factors that go into picking the best school.
Money is a big factor influencing my decision. Is it worth paying thousands of dollars/taking out loans at Georgetown/Wharton as opposed to Ross or UNC? Or should I take the virtually free undergraduate experience? Which school would give me the best opportunities coming out of college? Which school has the best alumni network?
As stated before, any and all arguments towards any one school or schools are appreciated as I’m trying to gather as many diverse views as possible in order to make the best decision.
Thanks!
Since you indicated that money is your biggest concern, Michigan would be your best deal. It is a target school for IB; not quite as strong as Wharton, but at least equal to Georgetown. Assuming your are a pre-admit for Ross, it would be a smart business decision to graduate without spending at least an extra $40,000.00-$100,000.00. Furthermore, you will be able to enjoy the complete collegiate experience in Ann Arbor.
Wharton is amazing, so if you can afford it, go there for sure. Ross and McDonough are both really good too, so if money is a concern with Wharton, choose between those two according to whichever one is cheapest.
Congratulations! You have great options.
Kenan-Flagler “second-tier”?! Their undergrad business program is ranked in a tie with Virginia for #6 in the nation in the most recent U.S. News rankings. Michigan is very marginally better - but the overall collegiate experience, weather etcetera all favor UNC. By the way, I lived in Michigan for several years, but I’d choose a full ride to UNC in a quick minute.
However, if you feel strongly about Michigan, by all means go for it. You’ll get an excellent education either place. Wharton is outstanding, but not a wise choice if it’s going to leave you with enormous debt after graduation. As for Georgetown, it doesn’t have a top 7 program like the other 3.
“Kenan-Flagler “second-tier”?! Their undergrad business program is ranked in a tie with Virginia for #6 in the nation in the most recent U.S. News rankings. Michigan is very marginally better - but the overall collegiate experience, weather etcetera all favor UNC. By the way, I lived in Michigan for several years, but I’d choose a full ride to UNC in a quick minute.”
I disagree that UNC has a better overall collegiate experience than Michigan. It has better weather, if you prefer warmer winters. That’s about it. To each his own.
Are you a pre-admit into the business schools?
I would advise asking Wharton to reassess your need in light of Georgetown’s assessment. If you had Wharton for 10K, it’d be the best deal.
In case that isn’t possible, we need to determine value for budget - so, what’s your parents’ budget?
Wharton is like 120K more MYOS1634. I highly doubt they are going to drop it 80K. For 10K a year, I think I might go to Wharton as well!
10-15 vs. 30 and Penn is supposed to have very generous aid, so I’m wondering how the difference can be so big and what they took into account that G’Town didnt???