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Question

Hello. I will be graduating this coming december and will be applying to 4-5 MSF to begin next summer/fall. I prefer a non-quantitative program, as my career goals would to be a financial advisor or similar role (not an analyst, as I prefer human contact). Here are my stats:

Dual degree (BSE in materials science and engineering and BA in economics) from a top 40 US News ranked undergrad
GPA: 3.7 overall
GRE: Q:170 V:159 AWA:4.5
Experiences: undergraduate engineering research, engineering co-op with GE, internship with Wells Fargo Advisors

I plan on applying to MIT, Princeton, Vanderbilt, USC and the University of Miami. I understand that MIT and Princeton are the top two programs and that Princeton is two years and MIT is a one year program. Is one superior to the other? How are they different? Also, USC and the University of Miami's programs are relatively new. Does anyone know how these programs stack up? I would like to live in florida after graduation, so that is why I am applying to Miami. Finally, what are my chances at getting in/getting some sort of scholarship at the schools listed above? I appreciate your time reading this post and any helpful responses are even more appreciated!

RandyD · Answer

Regarding your list:

-Princeton MSF requires work experience

-MIT: MIT's MSF is very quant heavy

With your GPA, GMAT equivalent of 740, and experience, you can easily get into top programs like Washington University St Louis and Vanderbilt. I personally suggests you apply to Vandy, Vandy has a great tract record of placing their MSF graduates in Southern US and NYC.

Good luck, but I don't think you need it

MSFHQ · Answer

MIT can be as quant or as little quant as you like. IMO, you are a very good candidate for that program. I would apply to MIT, USC and Vanderbilt. You'll get into USC and Vandy with those stats and have a good shot at MIT. UMiami is a new program, but you'll definitely get in there, most likely with scholarship money.

I'd advice you looking into private banking. JPM and HSBC have a great presence in Florida and top notch private banking platforms. Will give you a solid brand, salary and experience.

I'd advice you looking into private banking. JPM and HSBC have a great presence in Florida and top notch private banking platforms. Will give you a solid brand, salary and experience.

Willyboyx · Answer

Yes I looked over the courses offered at MIT and that is exactly what I am looking for. I hadn't realized Princeton requires post-grad experience, so I will focus on MIT primarily and Vanderbilt will likely by my second choice. I also will have a letter of recommendation from a managing director/investment officer from Wells Fargo so I hope that will help me stand out in addition to my dual degree.

Willyboyx · Answer

Also I see that MIT's 2014 class consists of only 16% U.S. citizens. Do they prefer international students or are they trying to get the % closer to 50/50 making it easier for U.S. students?

Willyboyx · Answer

Princeton states this on their website:
While the program does not require formal work experience as a requirement for admission, prior work experience provides an edge in this very competitive job market and more context for studies while in our program. At a minimum, we expect applicants to have completed one or more internships (for instance over the summer while in college).

It seems that post-grad work is not a requirement.

MSFHQ · Answer

MIT favors the best applicants. Princeton might not require work experience, but you'd be in the minority without it.

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