Hi All,
I've been accepted to all of the MBA programs I applied to for the Fall 2020 intake, which I'm really happy about, and would appreciate advice on the best program to choose. I'm a 30yo American Female working in the US with a background in premium/luxury brand marketing and am looking to continue in that space, but shifting more towards e-commerce opportunities. I'm looking to stay in Europe long term after I graduate.
LBS
Pros:
-highest brand awareness and overall rankings among the three choices
-Strong LBS alumni network
-2 yrs would give me time to try out a new industry if I wanted and ride out any post Covid recession
-New 2 year work visa scheme in UK so I could stay in the UK without any issues after graduating
-financials aside, LBS is my preferred choice based on brand awareness
Cons
-no scholarship, so would need to take out nearly $150k in loans, which makes me very hesitant
-no option to defer, even if classes start online
-London cost of living is very high
HEC Paris
Pros:
-High brand awareness in Europe
-Well respected in luxury sector and has relationships with luxury companies
-16 month program feels like a good length and still gives time for internships
-received a small scholarship so would only need to take out $60k in loans
-Starts in August, but can defer to the Jan intake (which I would likely do if unable to start in-person in August)
Cons:
-Not as well known outside out Europe
-I've heard the career center could be improved
-Getting sponsored for work in Europe could be challenging
Cambridge Judge
Pros:
-Cambridge name is nice to have on CV
-I would enjoy living in Cambridge
-Proximity to Silicon Fen is a plus for e-commerce opportunities, and there is a digital concentration which I'd take advantage of
-Received a small bursary, so would only take out $50k in loans
-Would be able to take advantage of the new 2 year work visa scheme
Cons:
-1 year program isn't safest bet in current climate
-MBA program isn't as highly regarded as HEC and LBS
Is it really worth it to take out $150k in loans for the LBS experience if I'm not looking to go into finance or consulting? Any advice on which program to choose would be appreciated!