Help me decide Undergraduate Program (Princeton or Penn (Wharton)
HS senior limited my choice down to Princeton vs. Wharton. Literally have no clue which to choose.
Princeton:
Planning on either ORFE with minor in finance or econ major. I like the undergrad focus, liberal arts education, and I feel that I’d be a more interesting candidate at Princeton where the focus is on exploring passions over pre-professionalism. Really nervous about “what” to do, i’m not familiar with what finance clubs, organizations, or classes to take. Princeton also has the flexibility to switch majors if I ever change interests and develop my academic interests.
Wharton:
Number one finance program, but I really believe that stat is dying/less important as jobs switch away from IB and towards quant/data analytics which Princeton has superior programs for. Definitely better social sphere and city life style, although i’m not opposed to Princeton’s campus. At the end of the day I feel like going to Princeton means missing out on the finance resources, connections, and alumni Penn has to offer which are renowned by every source I’ve seen. Job placement and companies like blackrock only hiring from HBS and Wharton also makes me worried about taking Princeton over Penn as it may close doors further down in my career.
Any advice, experiences, suggestions, or opinions are greatly appreciated! thanks so much 🙏
Choosing between Princeton and Wharton for your undergraduate studies is indeed a significant decision, each offering unique opportunities and experiences. Here's a breakdown to help you weigh your options more effectively:
Princeton: - ORFE with a Minor in Finance or Econ Major: Princeton's ORFE program is highly regarded and offers a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied financial engineering, mathematics, and statistics. This could be particularly beneficial if you're leaning towards quant roles or data analytics in finance. - Liberal Arts Education: Emphasizes a well-rounded education, allowing you to explore a wide range of subjects and interests. This can make you a more versatile and interesting candidate in the job market. - Flexibility: The ability to switch majors and explore different academic interests without much hassle is a significant advantage, especially if you're still undecided about your career path. - Undergraduate Focus: Princeton is known for its strong focus on undergraduate education, meaning you might find more personalized attention and resources dedicated to your learning and development.
Wharton (Penn): - Top Finance Program: Wharton's reputation in finance is unparalleled, offering extensive resources, connections, and a rigorous curriculum that's directly aligned with the industry's needs. - Alumni Network: Wharton's vast and active alumni network can be a powerful asset in securing internships, job opportunities, and mentorship. - Social Sphere and City Life: Philadelphia offers a vibrant city life with plenty of opportunities for networking, internships, and socializing outside the academic environment. - Job Placement: Wharton's strong ties with leading finance firms and its reputation can indeed open doors to prestigious job placements early in your career.
Considerations: - Career Goals: Reflect on where you see yourself in the finance industry. If you're drawn to quant roles or data analytics, Princeton's ORFE might offer the specialized education you're looking for. However, if traditional finance roles or a broader network in finance are more appealing, Wharton's resources and alumni network could be invaluable. - Academic and Social Environment: Consider which environment you think you'll thrive in. Princeton offers a more traditional liberal arts experience with a focus on undergraduate education, while Wharton provides a pre-professional atmosphere with direct ties to the finance industry. - Flexibility vs. Specialization: Princeton offers more flexibility to explore and switch majors, which can be a significant advantage if you're still exploring your interests. Wharton, on the other hand, offers a more specialized and focused path in finance from day one.
Ultimately, both institutions are exceptional, and your decision should align with your personal, academic, and career goals. Consider visiting both campuses, talking to current students and alumni, and reflecting on where you see yourself thriving not just academically but also personally.
Sources: Undergrad decision time.....Yale or Princeton?, Yale vs. Princeton vs. Wharton Undergrad, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/undergrad-penn-cas-vs-wharton?customgpt=1, Wharton vs Stanford Undergrad
Who tf cares about where BlackRock hires from?
You’re right though that some top firms (Silver Point, Silver Lake, etc.) have a preference for Wharton/Harvard… but this shouldn’t guide your decision.
Both Princeton and Penn (esp. Wharton) are in the absolute top tier of schools. Figure out if finance is 100% your thing. Talk to alumni. Visit both campuses. Per Jeff Bezos, choose the one you would least regret going to in 5 years’ time.
Princeton hands down. The alumni are phenomenal (yes I am an alum so I'm biased). It's unlikely that the recruiting outcomes will really be better coming from Wharton and you'll be a more interesting person by getting a Princeton liberal arts education and having to take distribution requirements, which will benefit you in ways you can't possibly know now down the road. If you really want to go to Wharton at some point, you can go there for business school.
Also, Princeton is a target school for BlackRock and just about everywhere on Wall Street. There are a huge number of Princeton alumni running around BlackRock.
lolol
Fair. To be clear, I mean the alumni network and the willingness of the alums to help one another and current students based on school affiliation and nothing more. I didn’t mean just “omg I am an alum therefore I am amazing”
Natus quis quo alias similique dolorem beatae. Voluptas tempore molestiae accusamus earum consectetur vero cupiditate. Ratione et voluptas sapiente aperiam consequuntur unde. Omnis quo et aut enim. Voluptas voluptates est sunt tempora eos. Dignissimos quaerat aliquam sed mollitia rem quis.
Qui ut ipsam voluptates nostrum ea quas consectetur fugit. Et magnam praesentium quos et exercitationem corporis deserunt.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...