Northwestern Econ VS UVA Econ for IB?!

Incoming second-year Econ transfer at UVA. Just found out I got into Northwestern.
 

Northwestern is a stronger econ program and I wouldn’t be competing against McIntire kids for recruiting. Better brand, no question.
 

But my primary target is New York, and UVA places well into MM/EBJefferies, Houlihan Lokey, Harris Williams, Guggenheim. I also love UVA’s campus, the culture, and the college town. Have a roommate I like, a signed lease, and one of my good friends goes there.
 

Evanston isn’t Charlottesville. 

Leaning UVA but would love to hear from people who’ve been in a similar spot. What would you do?


 

12 Comments
 

NU is very underrated. They have been placing well recently and have a lot of smart kids. Sure UVA may produce higher volume but it also has a few multiples more of kids. Evanston isn't all that bad. NU brand is generally better and will serve you beyond IB. Although I see an argument for the college experience that UVA delivers. On average, you'll have more normal friends which does matter when you hit FT as this industry can be tough. Both great schools so congrats but I'd choose NU and wouldn't look back

 

The thing is I’m transferring   because I wasn’t very happy and I just don’t think I’ll be very happy at Northwestern. I have pretty much lived in Evanston for 10 years of my life and like there really is nothing there lol no shade on NU tho

 

From my understanding northwestern has a specific program/workshop/club that preps for IB so you’ll want to look into that. Although I’m not sure so do your own research. 

UVA is kinda club dependent and getting in the clubs can be competitive. Although, I think there’s a decent amount of placements outside of the finance clubs.  But caveat here is that many of those people have connections and a previous network. But there’s also a program (I believe called Finance Academy?) that’s pretty much open to everyone and you’ll just have to give it a Google and look from there. Additionally, If you make friends with those in clubs they’ll prolly be willing to help you out and send some resources. 

I think as a transfer you’ll need to balance coursework, making friends, joining the necessary clubs, all while prepping recruiting. So this is something to consider. I think likely you won’t really be able to go out that much as it is demanding and I wouldn’t underestimate it. 

Pm me if you want to talk more

 

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