SMU vs Northeastern

Hey everyone,

I’m currently in the process of making a college decision and would really appreciate some insight.

I’m interested in investment banking or potentially PWM after undergrad, ideally in NYC. I understand that both schools are considered non-targets.

Given that, which option would better position me for IB or PWM recruiting?

Northeastern: First year at a global campus, then back to the main Boston campus for the remaining three years.

SMU: Direct admit to Cox.

7 Comments
 

SMU is probably the better option, but just note that their target offices are Houston and Dallas. Also note, majority of their placements are because the students' parents are already very well connected. Northeastern may be a good option, but I don't think it places that well. I think you should go to SMU just because you'll have more alumni opportunity.

 

Northeastern’s co-op program has done wonders for their placement into (mostly MM) IB and top-tier AM in Boston and NYC. If goal is NYC, go NE. Will caveat by saying that SMU has better placement into top tier banks, but this is only true for Houston or Dallas offices. For NYC placements, specifically, Northeastern is your best bet.

 

Northeastern has IB co-ops at RJ Tech & Services Boston, PS (Public Finance), Alantra, Scotia, and GS (believe its NFP Healthcare though) to name a few. Bunch of IB boutiques as well like Peak, Bowen, Alkali. They used to have more though (MS, Jefferies Boston, PS Chemicals)

 

If you’re aiming for NYC, Northeastern is likely the better option. While SMU has strong alumni connections and solid placement outcomes, most of their graduates tend to land roles in Texas, particularly in the Houston and Dallas metro areas. Over the past few years, however, Northeastern has been surprisingly good placing a growing number of graduates into IB especially in NYC.

 

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