I'm looking to make a career switch into the entertainment and media industry, preferably at a company with a technology focus (Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, etc). If I end up not liking entertainment, my next preference is tech industry in general. I was offered admission at Stern with no money, Anderson with $80k fellowship, and Marshall with full tuition fellowship (~$125k).
Right now I'm leaning towards Anderson, I've gotten a great vibe from them in terms of cultural fit throughout the process and they've been so impressive and on top of things along the way. They've already connected me with an alumna as my admit buddy who has had work experience at the companies I mentioned in my goals essays. Their strong presence in tech is really appealing as well.
I've heard great things about Marshall's network, especially within the film industry, but feel like I've barely heard from them since admittance and they haven't offered as many marketing opportunities (webinars, local info sessions, etc.) to get to know them, so I'm not quite sure I have a sense of who they are yet.
Stern is also very appealing in terms of program quality, but felt a little bit more tired than Anderson and I'm not sure how connections in the entertainment industry compare. Especially with the higher cost and lower quality of living in New York, it's hard to justify giving up fellowship opportunities to go to a slightly higher ranked program (at least according to US News, Anderson appears to rank higher according to many other rankings).
Being on the older end of the MBA student spectrum, I'm not as interested in relocating after graduation so would prefer to go to school in a city I could see myself living in for 5+ years. I also have a large dog who will be coming with me which makes New York difficult. As much as I am sad to lose the feel of living in a big city and to encounter the driving/traffic difficulties of LA, I think I would prefer Los Angeles for the higher quality of life to cost ratio.
Will most likely accept offer at Anderson but welcome feedback from those with more intel on anything I may not be considering!