GWU (8k) vs Middlebury (23k) for Consulting
I’m trying to decide between GW (about $8k/year) and Middlebury (about $23k/year). I’m currently leaning GW mostly because of the cost and how much more affordable it is, but I would like to hear other thoughts. Would you guys say the Middlebury connection is worth over 70k? Also is the GWU network strong in your opinion?
Would appreciate any thoughts!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, Middlebury is often highlighted as a strong choice for consulting and investment banking due to its reputation, rigorous academics, and alumni network. For example, in a comparison between Babson and Middlebury, Middlebury was described as the clear winner for consulting and IB opportunities. Its alumni network and prestige in these fields are well-regarded.
On the other hand, GWU's affordability in your case is a significant factor. However, its network and placement strength in consulting may not match Middlebury's. The $70k difference is substantial, so the decision ultimately depends on your financial situation and career priorities. If you can manage the cost difference without significant hardship, Middlebury might provide better long-term opportunities in consulting. If cost is a major concern, GWU could still be a viable option, but you may need to work harder to network and secure top consulting roles.
Sources: Undergrad School OPTIONS (please help), MBA Costs $500,000 -- Worth It?, MSF or MBA for my experience level?, Is transferring to the University of Virginia worth $100,000?
are you transferring?
Nope. I’m going to be a freshman fall of 2026.
idk if u already committed but can u negotiate with middlebury to match gwu?
from what i know, gwu has a strong pipeline to federal/government consulting. so, you can definitely take advantage of that, and use that to pivot into MBB if you want.
middlebury lacks that specialization but has a bit more prestige overall.
it'd personally be tough for me to decide. middlebury is better in non-political fields, but gwu is top 10 for anything government and IR related, and MBB/t2 also knows that.
what are your career interests?
also what type of campus do you like? they're both very different.
Thanks for the reply. I committed to GWU May 1st! But I did try to get Middlebury to match my GWU package but they didn’t budge. I was stuck in between consulting and a law/government career but now I’m leaning towards law. If I committed to Midd I was scared i might not like the environment since I never visted before and maintaining a high GPA there is probably harder than at GW which would hurt my grad school chances.
Thank you for the response again!
no wrong decision obviously but i'd have done the same if i were you
enjoy gwu! there's a lot of cool opportunities in washington dc
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