HEC vs IESE

Question

Hello Folks,

I have been admitted at IESE for next year, and I have also applied at HEC. In an hypothetical situation in which I was accepted as well at HEC, what school would you choose?

I have been working at Big4 - strategy, and my goal post mba would be to jump into MBB, or perhaps into a more industry oriented job.

Any thoughts/personal experience?

One important thing, is that I am from Spain, which is something that makes me think that HEC may be a slightly better option.

Any feedback will be much appreciated!

Thank you!

Turin89 · Answer

Hi,

I have been in a similar condition some weeks ago because I was admitted at IE and Hec.
If your target is the MBB, it would be better Hec for several reasons (a specific eligible program in the last term in management consulting, a close connection with Bain). 
However,Hec only recently had gained a strong recognition and the alumni network is not as spread as those of other universities.
This choice is very personal because other variables are relevant (your knowledge of French, how many years do you want to work abroad and what is your target industry).

I hope to be helpful to you. 
Alex

Posted from my mobile device

jglop · Answer

Hi Alex,

Thanks for your response!

Why does my level of french matter, (No knowledge at all), since I do not plan to work in France?

I have seen some people as you said getting into Bain after HEC, bur very few into the other two.. so I am not sure if I can consider getting into MBB a real option, if maybe only very few get into.. 
Anyway, I guess its still a better option for me going to HEC as I do not want to do the MBA in Spain (IESE), if I have a different option, since I live there, and would prefer to do it abroad.

Thanks!

Posted from my mobile device

Cogman · Answer

From my understanding IESE places really well in consulting

Turin89 · Answer

Your point is clear and I agree totally.
Often, the best way to expand your network and to show proactivity is choose the option abroad.

Posted from my mobile device

ANALysis · Answer

about the same

Cogman · Answer

I think overall they may be the same in reputation but I found IESE’s culture to be far more welcoming. Out of the 10 odd current students and alumni I reached out to - every single one replied. I can’t say the same for HEC. Nearly no one took the effort to speak to me. A small sample size but thought I’d share.

Posted from my mobile device

Posted from my mobile device

doublewhammy · Answer

As far as MBB nos. go, IESE places around 50 odd students into MBB every year, which is approx.14% of the class. This figure (14%) equals the well known Consulting powerhouse in US - Columbia. I don't think HEC would have such strong nos. in MBB recruitment.

However, it is essential to understand which offices they place into for making a more informed decision. (IESE doesn't place many into English-speaking countries)

The above data is collated through Emp. reports and sessions by consulting clubs and the career center.

jglop · Answer

Hello,

Honestly I'm still a bit confused.. On one hand I am hearing from all of you that apparently from HEC is not that easy to get into MBB, and basically the job opportunities may not be as good or as easy to get, when compared to IESE.. However, doing the MBA in my hometown (Barcelona), it feels like an opportunity wasted to do it abroad.. I feel that spending all that money to do the MBA in your city, would be a pity, but again, the most important are the job opportunities, so again, still confused.

I still need to think about it..

Thanks!

bb · Answer

Congrats on your admit. I would wait on the HEC admit before rejecting IESE.

I get it that HEC is more exciting and seems more competitive... are you going to recruit in Spain?

Posted from my mobile device

jglop · Answer

Hi!

Exactly.. HEC seems more competitive, but I am constantly getting feedback that recruiting in HEC is more limited, and that you have to do your networking a bit on your own, and that scares me somehow.. I do not want to be fighting from day 1 sending cold emails to get into MBB or in any other good company.

I am not sure about recruiting in Spain (depending on personal issues), but 80% I'm going to recruit anywhere in europe, but not in Spain!

Thanks!

bb · Answer

I am sorry to disappoint you but business cool recruiting is going to be fighting and nagging and getting Way out of your comfort zone. While many believe that the application process is the hardest part, it really is not. Recruiting really takes you through a ringer. All the rejections and self self doubt and fear of missing out and seeing your classmates being successful, takes a toll on many people. But you do come out stronger and taller. If you can survive that, you can handle anything.

This will be the case for the best jobs and even the case in the top 10. There are more opportunities and more on campus options with higher ranked schools, but you’re still competing with your classmates... Reminds me of salmon swimming upstream. It’s fascinating and it looks like a ton of work and you’re really glad that it’s not you who is doing it.

Posted from my mobile device

HEC vs IESE

Prep Toolkit

Top 5 GMAT Debrief Videos

615 to 715 in 15 Days (Ria's Strategies)

More than Quant/Verbal Abilities: Speed vs. Accuracy

745 with Only Self-Prep and GMAT Club

From 555 to 765: 210-point Improvement

Perfect 805 Score Debrief by Julia

My Rewards