Intern
Joined: 12 Sep 2012
Posts: 16
Given Kudos: 1
Concentration: Strategy, General Management
WE:Marketing (Advertising and PR)
Anderson vs. Ross (Location vs. MC)
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04 Mar 2013, 19:49
Hi All,
Yes, I've seen the other threads, but I wanted to get some thoughts on my situation specifically.
I've been accepted to both Ross and Anderson (both without $) and now need to make a decision as to where I want to go. I think they are both great schools and I have enjoyed the time I have spent interacting with students, alumni and admissions folks from both programs. When evaluating the two schools, I feel like it really comes down to a decision between location and career. I grew up in SoCal and could see myself there long-term. You might be thinking: no-brainer, go to UCLA. The problem is that Anderson places a relatively small number of students in MC. Ross, on the other hand, has very strong relationships with all of the major MC firms and has consistently placed well in MBB, as well as companies such as Deloitte and Accenture. Beyond those two variables, the differences between the two schools aren't as important to me. My backup career plan would be product marketing in tech or entrepreneurship, and I don't think either school has a significant advantage there. I would save some money by going to UCLA, but when you are looking at a $150K investment, I don't think a $10 - $15K cost difference should play a significant role. From a quality of life perspective, I see myself having very different experiences at Ross and Anderson, but I know I would have a great time at both. So, it really comes down to this: do I pick Ross because it gives me the best chance of getting into MC, my desired post-MBA career? Or, do I pick Anderson because I want to live in SoCal and the long term SoCal network would be extremely valuable?
UCLA:
(+) Location, Location, Location
(+) Network in SoCal, my preferred post-MBA location
(+) Slightly cheaper as I would pay in-state tuition and would save $ on flights
Ross:
(+) MC firms recruit more heavily at Ross
(+) Slightly stronger brand (nationally)
(+) Alumni network stronger across all of US
Thanks for taking the time to read and answer! I really appreciate your thoughts.