Hi there!

I am one of those "fortunate" people agonizing over Booth ($70k in scholarships) vs Wharton decision.

Although $70k is a lot of money to turn down, I am trying to NOT make such a big life decision entirely based on money. I know there are a lot of posts with a similar subject line out there but they all seem very specific where people know they want to do PE in NJ, for example, and hence once school takes over the other.

My issue is that I am not entirely sure what I want to do post MBA. A big reason for why I chose to do an MBA is to truly explore the options out there and get exposure to opportunities I wouldn't have otherwise. From all the conversations and events, I can't shake off the feeling that Wharton's alumni culture is stronger and more diverse and MIGHT actually lead to "better" opportunities a few years down the road. I am also worried about the extra prestige Wharton brand seems to carry and wondering if it only amplifies in years AFTER graduation.

Genuinely TORN between the two and would appreciate all and any advice!

Thank you!

better if you add a poll to this question.

my vote goes to Booth

OP, feel you've given us very little information on which to base our suggestions. It's kinda okay to not have a very concrete idea of what you want out of your MBA experience - professionally, socially, and personally - but without any idea of your goals or preferences, people will tend to share what THEY think of these schools and not sure how helpful that will be for you to make such a big decision.

You could perhaps both focus on and share with us about what kind of an experience you want for the two years, what kind of community do you find yourself usually thriving in, and maybe broad goals.

Without any of that information, my vote goes to Booth.
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Also, if you don't mind, could you update the Decision Tracker? (you can make an anonymous update too)

Congrats again on the fantastic job of cracking two of the best business schools in the world!
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I think we need a little more information to give you a more informed opinion.

As a Wharton student, I know many classmates that turned down money from Booth to be here, and I haven't heard anyone regret it. The benefit of Wharton is that you have a HUGE class, normally mid 800's, this year low 900. This means that you get an extremely wide variety of pre MBA experience that you can leverage to explore any of your interests. I would also say alumni are always happy to help and it is extremely broad.

Happy to answer any questions you might have.

You will not have materially different opportunities from Booth and Wharton and they are considered peer schools now with H/S still a tier above. The prestige gap between Wharton and Booth is minimal. I've found the alumni network to be super strong in all areas and loved my experience there. I would take the money here.

If you're still trying to make a decision, there are two links in my signature block below that may be of assistance.

Good luck to you!
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