Hello everyone!
I am creating my top 5 list of schools to apply to, and I have already decided my top 4, nevertheless, I still do not know whether to choose Haas or Wharton as my 5th option (I will only apply to 5 schools).
My post MBA ideal job would be a business designer at Ideo or a product manager, user experience, innovation lead (or that type of role) at a tech company or startup.
On one hand, Berkely´s location in the Bay Area would be strategic, due to its tech ecosystem. This would not only allow me to be more easily involved with tech companies, but it might also make it easier for me to find people who share similar interests (I must say climate is also a plus). On the other hand, I loved Wharton´s curriculum! It is more flexible and there are more electives to choose from (nevertheless, I could adjust easily to Haas´ program). I know that Wharton traditionally has a more financial profile, but I have heard that they are investing in making it techy and innovative (its curriculum offers a wide variety of tech-related subjects and they have a virtual tour which is amazing and talks about their investments in research and innovation). I have also seen Wharton as better ranked in several rankings and I think it might have a slightly better reputation worlwide (nevertheless, I am not sure whether this reputation matters to recruiters at tech and startup companies). I also like the fact that Wharton has a bigger class, because it might help me have more post MBA connections (which is crucial for an international student that could not be able to stay to work in the US). Final note: I know that in Wharton you might take one semester in San Francisco, but it is also important to note that only 70 students are allowed to go each semester, so there could be a chance of not beeing admitted to that opportunity.
Any thoughts or other key factors that I should keep in mind for this decision?
Thank you!