Hi, I've been in Inv. Mgt. and worked on the west coast (Bay Area). I love Cornell -- my parents met & married there -- but the b-school doesn't have the cache' you would expect. Your CFA is going to be helpful, and your self-awareness and honesty that you are showing in your posts are also going to help you go far. Personally, I think Michigan's wider network, including undergrad and grad students will help you meet and greet, which is the best way to get in to the industry.
Having said all that, I come from HBS, and just because you go to a top school and have some introductions, it doesn't assure a place, esp. in this very dire market.
BTW, I didn't get the sense that you were serious about Darden, so I didn't consider that as one of your real choices. I got in there and would have gone if I did not go to HBS.
Regards KT