Decision time!

Items 5, 7, and 8 have some issues. (Oh, and on Item 3, Barcelona is a great city, but Chicago might be the greatest American city. You won't get great weather, but Chicago is world class. I think that's more of a draw, but to each his own.)

For Item 5, Chicago has 1,000 students total over two classes.

For Item 7, Chicago is very people focused. It's a school that rewards risks and that really challenges students. It demands you get involved. The quant jock/egghead reputation is undeserved. But it's true that Booth is not as touchy-feely as some other MBA programs. All b-schools are strong in general management, as that is the whole point of the degree, so never choose a school based on which one is "strong in general management."

For Item 8, I doubt that is true, but I am of the opinion that it's not a b-school's job to make people ethical, but rather to admit people who are ethical. It's too late in the game to "teach" someone ethics. You either have moral character or you don't. No matter where you go, I doubt you will seek or find much ethical training, nor (in my opinion) should you. This is a degree that puts the finishing touches on professionals and I believe you should go to the place where that will happen.

Anyway, there's nothing I can think of that would ever make me put IESE ahead of Booth except for "desire to work in Spain/Europe after graduation."

Cheers,
PL

Thanks for your frank assessment Paul. It was very helpful.

I am currently leaning towards Chicago and will attend the admitted weekend in a few days to confirm this decision.

Best regards,

Nagano