Kellogg (Northwestern) vs. ESADE in Barcelona
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22 Mar 2011, 20:00
Dear friends,
Thanks for the support over the past months during the MBA application process. I have narrowed down my choice to two schools I've been admitted to - Kellogg (Northwestern) and ESADE (in Barcelona). Right now, it's a 50-50, and comparing the two schools is like comparing apples to oranges. I would like to get some perspective from folks who have gone through the MBA experience and recruiting/networking process.
Kellogg obviously is (at least right now) the better known elite school, with a well balanced, strong-everywhere curriculum I love and a student driven, team oriented culture I am passionate about. As a long-time Chicago resident, I save some cost and having done my undergrad at Northwestern, I am familiar with the area. Going to Kellogg opens up many doors in the future career-wise, and the reputation/brand is indisputable.
ESADE, on the other hand, is my wildcard passion, for it's truly international appeal, individual focus, and Barcelona vibe. It's a huge plus being a FC Barcelona fan. It has a corporate social responsibility/entrepreunership focused curriculum I love and also a team oriented culture I am passionate about. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be bold, add a new dimension to my life experience, and boost my Spanish to a new level. The fact that ESADE has recently climbed up the rankings to be a Top 10 European School and arguably Top 20 Global School doesn't hurt.
My heart tells me to go to ESADE, but my rational side tells me to go to Kellogg. ESADE gets me excited and is better from a intangible life learning perspective, but I have real concerns about the weak economy in Spain, my lack of EU status, and ESADE's lesser recognition outside of Europe. Kellogg, on the other hand, is the stronger brand, with more diverse curriculum, and offers more flexible and broader career prospects (i.e. safer bet for a good return on investment).
As a compromise, I am leaning towards matriculating at Kellogg, and then seeking international exchange opportunities to ESADE or another Spanish School (e.g. IESE, IE) during my second year. However, ESADE is just so unique in my perspective...
I am not asking anyone to make decision for me - I have already thought this through for days. I would just like to hear from others who have gone through MBA/post-MBA experience and who may add a fresh perspective. Appreciate it!!