Hello friends!
my first attempt posting here.
I was very lucky to survive R1 and got admitted to Wharton and Kellogg MMM. Now I'm stuck at making a decision - I've talked to multiple people (mostly alums) and feel like choosing either school will likely give me similar experience, which also means it's quite hard to choose one.
Quick background: currently in consulting in US, recently pivoted to more design-thinking/product related topics at work, and want to continue working in this broad world of user-centric design and product (think about the Venn Diagram with business, design, and tech - probably the middle section). Realistically want to end up in bigger companies vs. startup due to visa restrictions.
Below is my latest thinking:
WhartonPros:+ $$
+ Very strong brand name in Asia in case I go back eventually
+ Strong network and curriculum across most areas - not that I will suddenly enter PE/VC, but might be helpful to get to know some people in those industries and keep the door open
+ Can still take Wharton Design school courses and join related clubs
+ Tech job outlook seems ok - looked at the job report (~50 getting into tech) and did LinkedIn stalking, seems that a decent # go to Google/Facebook/etc.
Cons:+ Didn't feel like a click when I was interviewing - somehow I was the most casually dressed up person in the room
+ I've met several alums that I like, but the full school seems a bit more intense/hardcore
+ Talked to ppl I know in design-thinking/product areas, they can't comment on Wharton or don't know many folks from Wharton
Kellogg MMMPros:
+ Dedicated curriculum to get deep in design and innovation (vs. having to navigate the curriculum and "make it work")
+ Nicer/Chiller people (based on what I've heard and the couple datapoints I have from alums)
Cons:
+ With the extra semester and no $, financially will be probably 80K+ more than Wharton
+ Tech network in Asia seems weaker (or just in general network seems weaker in Asia)
+ A bit worried about party scene as a big introvert
+ Extremely cold winter....
I am going to welcome weekend for both schools (doing the crazy 1-day trip for the full weekend) to test out the vibes, but getting quite nervous as the decision deadline is approaching..... Any suggestions/insights would be greatly appreciated!
Specifically, would love to hear:
+ Any other factors I should consider?
+ Any false assumptions I've made above?
+ What things should I dig deeper into during Welcome Weekend (besides checking whether I like the people)?
* Plus, while I'm taking a break (at least two years) from consulting, happy to answer any questions about consulting as well!