Marriott (BYU) v/s Sauder (UBC, Canada)

Question

I am looking to transition my career into technology product management.

I am fortunate to have admits from BYU and UBC for Fall 2015.

I intend to work in the technology sector. The placement stats are definitely better at Marriott due to the proximity to the silicon valley and intern-ships are easily accessible as well.
Being an international student, I am a little concerned about the strict visa policies in the US.

Sauder has a great reputation in Canada on the other hand. Probably more reputed than byu in the US. But, the job market is not as big as it is in the US. However, the visa policies are great for internationals and the work permit is automatically granted post graduation.

I am open to any and all suggestions. I need to make this decision in less that 2 weeks. :-|

shankar35619 · Answer

Hey Shea, Thank you for your inputs. I am personally leaning towards UBC for similiar reasons. I will talk to the alums from both UBC and BYU to make an informed decision. I am quite bothered by the fact that even after finding a wilful employer, my fate lies in the hands of a system which relies entirely on luck. And also since the OPT stem extension is not possible for MBA grads, the situation seems a lot sketchy to me..

dontquixote · Answer

I would go to BYU.

BigFudge · Answer

While I cannot speak to the Quality of Sauder, BYU is a great school with great alums. If you are not already aware, there is a budding, rapidly growing tech sector in the Greater Salt Lake Metro area. Now, this is just speculation, but my experience in this area (lived here for 3 years) is that is is ethnically homogeneous and they are hungry for diversity. Could be a competitive advantage.

Good Luck!

Good Luck!

Sareen21 · Answer

My vote is for Sauder. It sits in a very good university and is one of Canada's best. Also, as you've mentioned, you would not have to worry about visa issues. That alone is a factor weighing heavily in favor of Sauder. If you're alright with making a career in Canada, have no second thoughts. If you have second thoughts, go to BYU.

shankar35619 · Answer

After putting in a lot of thought, I have decided to join BYU. Sauder is a great school. However, product management opportunities are very limited in Canada and Vancouver is an extremely small job market. And also, for a potential career switcher, Canada might not be a bright option. The only sector where Sauder scores over BYU is the readily available work permit post graduation in contrast to the H1 B visas, which are hard to come by, in the United States.

ameyagmat1989 · Answer

Congratulations on getting admitted to both the schools.

One more additional point that should be taken into consideration is the 'Honor Code' at BYU. I believe that the college asks its students to strictly adhere to it. Kindly go through the honor code given on the college website before making a decision.

shankar35619 · Answer

I am well aware of the Honour Code. The application process makes sure that you are aware of the code. I spoke to several students who are not members of the church as well to understand the college's requirement better.

Thank you for the Input.

MBAGirl17 · Answer

shankar35619 , Do you mind sharing your research on the Honor Code at BYU? You said you spoke to students who are not members of the church. Are the expectations different for members and non-members?

unceldolan · Answer

Hey Guys, great discussion here. I also got an offer from Sauder and additionally Owen. I am still waiting for Georgetown.

I, too, want to go into product management and your input really helps here, thank you guys. My favor to join Owen grows stronger...

shankar35619 · Answer

The Honour code is implemented seriously at BYU. However, From what I hear, It is not at all hard to get used to these rules. I personally do not have a problem with the points mentioned. And besides when you are getting quality education for an affordable sum, these rules should not stand in your way. Having said that, it is a personal opinion.

sundartiwari619 · Answer

Shankar,

Could u plz share the finding in post mba H1B visa after discussion with alum ??

Marriott (BYU) v/s Sauder (UBC, Canada)

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