Hi everyone,

I was hoping somebody might be able to give me some feedback on their thoughts choosing between ESADE and HEC. I have been accepted to both but I feel very uncertain which is the best option for me. I am looking at working in either consultancy or supply chain role initially upon graduation. I am obviously wanting the best option for staying in Europe, job opportunities and salary upon graduation. I am also travelling with my family and I am originally from the UK.

I happy to provide more information if it would be of assistance.

Thanks

U

Hi Unsure.

Your school of choice will always be a very personal matter. ESADE is one of the top schools in Spain and Europe, while HEC Paris is the top french school and one of the best in Europe as well. Teaching methodology is quite similar, with both using case method and lecture teaching evenly. In my case, location was essential, as I love Spain and Barcelona specifically, while I feel that Paris is a tad too expensive for living as a student.ESADE students have been known to choose consultancy over Industry jobs in recent rankings, but again that is all a very personal choice. I encourage you to register for the regular webinars that are performed by the ESADE admissions team, and attend each school's 'open days' and see for yourself. The ESADE MBA Program managers and admissions consultants will be more than happy to share their knowledge with you.

As an admitted student, should you choose ESADE, do share so we can start to get in touch before the program starts.

I have been wondering the same for a long time. Finally I put all my effort into getting accepted by ESADE (luckily this happened!) I plan on attending there this September So see you there!

HEC might have been ranked as the top business school in Europe for several years (FT European Business Schools rankings) but people look too much into rankings in my opinion. Considering the size of the investment it is definitely worth visiting the schools you are considering to get a feel of the campus and the people. Get closer and see which one is a better fit for you. I am totally biased towards HEC but what I have learned is that any MBA from any great school will tick the box for you. After than it is all down to your fit with a particular role and your own initiatives in networking and really knowing what you want to do. Looking at the alumni network in the companies and locations that interest you is also very important. Just use LinkedIn to check that. Having alumni in particular offices and companies makes landing an interview pretty easy and then it is all down to your performance at the interview and no school will make the difference there. In any case, definitely go there and check out for yourself.

Regarding ESADE I feel that it is diluting its MBA brand with MBA/EMBA/GEMBA/MMBA and is also not a clear leader in its own territory. HEC is the leading business school in France and a leading one in Europe.

Finally being from the UK it is great that you are considering studying in either Spain or France because it will give you a more international dimension. A preference for the language will also play a role. Finally, travelling to the UK from Paris is just a couple of hours with the Eurostar.

Good luck with your results and with your future studies!