It is a tough one!
The finance rankings are higher in Carol and Simon but weak for Olin; it is the opposite picture for the overall rankings.
Some facts:- I can say that in Simon, the financial research is big and you will be connected with professors and other students looking for the same goals. At the same time, recruiting will be slightly cumbersome esp with a 4-hour drive into NYC.
- I don't know much about Boston college but the rankings rate them higher than Simon in Finance
- In Carroll you will probably face a very stiff competition from the HBS and MIT being right next door so for top finance jobs you are probably shot.
- Olin is a strong school in St.Louis that can soon be a strong top 20 (21 right now).
The Subjective StuffI would settle on between Carroll and Olin. I think Simon is a bit remote and is not strong enough in terms of placement/rankings/program to outpace either Olin or Carroll. This would lead me to gravitate towards more of a lonely ranger big-shot in town Olin. At least you don't have to share town with a different bschool. You can say I am from Olin and be proud of it as the best place in town. Everyone will stand behind you (unlike in Boston, you will be a third/fourth tier), and the best spots in town will be available to you. Now, I don't know how good the market and financial industry is in St. Louis. There is probably at least something but not as great as Boston/NYC/Chicago area.
Suggestions:1. Research of what employers are within 200 mi range that you would consider - Keep in mind that Chicago is ruled by Booth and Kellogg (though always exceptions)
2. Put a list of potential employers in the country and check with the career services or on their site to see who got in there from the school - you may surprised.
3. Consider if this is really the job/career goal you want to get. If you potentially change your goals (many do - as many as 75%), you are better off in Olin which is not so finance-heavy and focused
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