Booth vs. Columbia

Question

Hello

I've been fortunate to be accepted into both schools. I have a management consulting background (4 yrs before matriculation) but am looking into pursuing a career in finance post MBA. Short-term goal is to get into bulge-bracket IBD with a longer term goal of getting into PE (or VC) because I know it's almost impossible to go straight into buy-side.

Which school will be a better for my goals?

I currently live in NYC and am thinking that moving to a new city for MBA might be a good idea but then being in NYC will also give me good networking opportunities for finance.

BazingAu · Answer

IMO, it really depends on where you want to have your biggest network base. Chicago or NY? Anything outside of H/S/W seem to have the biggest alumni/network in its own region, so you'll get the biggest "bang" for your buck if you're staying in the area of the school. That said, both schools have a national/international reputation as well, so you're not going to be stuck if you decide to move later on.

sab7a · Answer

You can't go wrong with either. 
Any of these schools giving you money? ask if they r not

EuroEng · Answer

full disclosure: I attended Booth (R3 applicant) and did not apply to CBS.

I think both schools will give you great opportunities in IB. Booth has great placement (including in NY) and a first rate reputation to boot, too. Virtually anyone in my class who recruited for IB (and was serious about it) got a job. So the opportunities are as good as anywhere and it mostly comes down to your doing your part during the recruiting process.

I would add that business school is a lot more than just your first job - it's a personal journey, a learning experience, a network, and an investment in your future. Considering these might help you make a decision. And one of the best way to get a sense of how much you'd get out of each school is to talk to current students or alumni (and visit both school if you haven't done so). They were in your shoes not so long ago and will give you a real sense of what it's like to attend either school.

luckyseventy7 · Answer

Congrats both schools can get you to BB ibd. On the margin of you want to do ibd in NYC specifically, Columbia may be slightly better. But both place very well and I think the difference is small enough enough that I'd personally choose based on fit.

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Posted from my mobile device

wmay · Answer

Can't go wrong with either options. I would say for NYC BB both place pretty well too. But Booth is usually seen as more academic and quant focussed between the 2 of them. Try ecking some money out of them if you are still undecided and go with whichevr gives you more $$.

Booth vs. Columbia

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