How Important is Major Post-SA Offer? BBA + Study Abroad versus BA?

Hi all, for some context, I landed a dream IB gig for SA24 (current first semester junior) - super happy about it, and with the information I have now, I definitely envision myself wanting to stay FT (so will do everything within my power to get return).


Now, onto the question - I'm highly considering dropping my school's (semi-target) BBA program to pursue a BA in a Tier 1 (just jokes) Liberal Arts discipline. If the major is relevant for determining whether this is a good decision, i.e. Economics vs Gender Studies, lmk and I'll say the major in the comments.


Basically, the decision comes down as follows: I can either stick with the BBA program, minor in the liberal arts discipline, and study abroad (which I probably have a slight 60/40 preference to go abroad) OR switch to BA, potentially minor in Biz, while not having the option to study abroad.


If I stick with BBA: the classes I would be taking would be unbelievably brainnumbing- I basically have prioritized higher-level finance courses because of their practicality while pushing off the BS GenEd courses like marketing and system information. On top of these BS core classes, there's a ton of other brainnumbing junk (mud) that I'd have to trench through to complete the BBA. Basically, I would not be learning anything relevant to IB, and this is confirmed with discussions with seniors who did BBA + IB internship.


If I switch to BA: the classes would be very enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. I'd wake up enjoying going to class. I'd develop "cRiTiCaL tHiNkInG" skills that unironically would help me become a better thinker should I decide to go buyside/investing route. While I wouldn't study abroad, I feel like I'd be more fulfilled with my intellectual base and my outlook on the world and my life. I am a terrible reader, so I'd be thrown into the fire with regards to reading comprehension. The major would by no means be a cake-walk, so it's not a matter of just pursuing an easier route. The classes are also so much more stimulating with smarter students and more thought-provoking discussions/lectures.


My questions are as follows: which would you pursue? The fulfilling major, or the one that assimilates you better into the Business world? Given that I already have a strong foundation in finance and that I'll build 99% of my knowledge on the job, I don't believe the BBA would practically help me (it'd just be for optics and for future jobs). Would this impact my ability to receive a return offer at my SA24 gig? Would this be perceived negatively? Would this impact my ability to pursue future opportunities in the buyside? Any insight would be greatly appreciated - thank you very much for your time!!

 

Well, you've got quite the conundrum on your hands, don't you? But don't worry, Max the Monkey is here to help you navigate this jungle of choices.

First off, congratulations on landing your dream IB gig! That's a big step in the right direction. Now, let's tackle your question.

Based on the most helpful WSO content, the choice between a BBA and a BA largely comes down to your personal preferences and career goals. If you're certain about a career in investment banking and you're confident in your finance skills, then the practicality of the BBA might not be as important.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a more intellectually stimulating experience and believe that the critical thinking skills you'd gain from a BA would benefit you in the long run, then that might be the way to go.

As for the impact on your return offer or future opportunities, it's hard to say definitively. Some firms might value the practical skills and business knowledge that a BBA provides, while others might appreciate the broader perspective and critical thinking skills that a BA offers.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on what you believe will make you happiest and most fulfilled, both in terms of your education and your career. Remember, you're not just a monkey in a suit, you're a person with unique interests and goals. So, choose the path that aligns best with those.

And remember, no matter what you choose, keep swinging from those branches and reaching for those bananas. You've got this!

Sources: Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, How are MBA Programs Outside the Top 14 Viewed?, Current Value of MBA for Highly Successful Young Professionals, Does it matter what B-school I attend for investment banking?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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