<p>So, I'm stuck in this huge dilemma. Comments and suggestions would be very much appreciated.</p>
<p>Possible major(s): Chemical Engineering, Economics, MS&E (@ Stanford), Mathematics and Computational Science (@ Stanford), Applied Math, Finance (M&T)</p>
<p>Since I need to make the most (academically) out of the 230k that my parents will be spending, I'm looking forward to pursuing a submatriculation/coterm program, which allows you to graduate with an MS in 4 years. I also heard that it is quite hard (given the distribution/language requirements) to obtain a master's @ Yale?</p>
<p>Nevertheless, I would still like to enjoy my undergraduate experience. How's the level of competition at Stanford/Yale/UPenn (M&T)?</p>
<p>After a degree in undergrad, I think I may want to pursue an MBA afterwards.</p>
<p>In terms of career, I'm still somewhat undecided, but either something engineering-related or possibly IBanking or Consulting.</p>
<p>The only worry I have about Yale is the strength in its science/engineering departments.</p>
<p>My uncle also mentions something about alumni connections. I'm not really sure how it works. I guess he meant an alumni hooking you up for a job because of your college?</p>
<p>M&T or Stanford. They both have stronger math/science programs than Yale (not saying Yale has weak ones–Stanford & Wharton is going to give the OP a stronger experience) and it seems like you are more interested in that subject versus the humanities (a program I feel that Yale is superior at).</p>
<p>Personally, I’d pick M&T because I love the program and like the Philly campus. Wharton is very strong and you will get some <em>very</em> strong connections from there. Penn SEAS is also a good engineering department (though Stanford’s engineering is FAR superior) and will give you some really strong job oppurtunities in the future. </p>
<p>However, it’s worth mentioning that Stanford’s economics program is only slightly weaker than Wharton whilst Stanford Engineering is far stronger. The rest is your choice.</p>
<p>I am obviously biased since I chose Y over S, but I would definitely come to Yale. At this level, the decision should really be about “fit”–even engineering at Yale, its weakest area, is plenty good enough for any grad school/opportunity. In terms of being an awesome undergrad experience, I could NEVER imagine a better one than Yale.</p>
<p>“In terms of career, I’m still somewhat undecided, but either something engineering-related or possibly IBanking or Consulting.” Stanford has the clear edge in engineering recruiting, but Yale has a definite edge in ibanking and consulting (think “Wall Street” vs. “Silicon Valley”). Stanford does better in engineering grad school recruiting, but Yale does better in geeral grad school admissions (business, law, etc).</p>
<p>Ultimately, I find it extremely troubling when people choose between the best colleges purely based on what they perceive to be strong or weak undergrad departments. You should really choose based on where you would enjoy it the most! Going to Penn vs. Yale vs. Stanford should be about much much more than your major (and your career)!!!</p>
<p>Meh…I’d go Penn M&T. I’m biased as I’m heading to Penn for a dual degree program; however, I really do think it maximizes your career opportunities. I believe that his program was more competitive than HYPS and dont underestimate the power of the Wharton name. I would, however, choose Stanford if you really want 2 go 2 a HYPS because it is warm year round = D/</p>
<p>I agree with Rtgrove123. M&T is a terrific program and if they accepted you it means you were a good fit. I think the benefits of M&T are greater than those of either Yale or Stanford, but that’s just my perspective.</p>