I was admitted to CBS ($130k scholarship) and Stern (full-ride, equivalent to $180k). I should be able to graduate without debt for either program due to my 529 (though $50k is nothing to scoff at!). I feel extremely fortunate to be in this position and know I'll be happy at either program, but it's still stressful to make the call!
I'm looking to use an MBA to pivot into entertainment strategy.
Pros for CBS:
- I like the big-school feel and the ability to interact with more classmates.
- I went to a state school for undergrad, so the brand boost would be great for my resume. This was my reach school going into the MBA process.
- I feel like attending CBS would give me more "career control" if I choose to pursue other interests or first work in a more advisory/consulting function within entertainment.
Pros for Stern:
- I was awarded a named faculty scholarship which may offer great insights and a more direct path to some of my target companies.
- Stern seems to have more alumni in 80-90% of companies I've looked at (though, this is not an exact science).
- Stern has more tailored entertainment coursework. Though, It's hard to tell if the "entertainment" versions of subjects will be significantly more valuable for me (e.g., taking "Corporate Finance at Entertainment Companies" vs. taking a standard "Corporate Finance" class).
- There are more industry practitioners teaching courses at Stern for entertainment.
Overall, it feels like Stern has crafted their program to help students exactly like me-- yet, I feel like Columbia might pull me out of my comfort zone in an exciting way and provide a stronger business foundation. I'm curious if there's anything else I should consider before making my final decision!