How important is a good school?

I'm currently trying to wrap up an accounting degree from a USM a fairly small school that's not sought after. But I'm curious what are the odds of me breaking into investment banking if I continue a MBA from Lsu?

7 Comments
 

Short answer: Yes, it’s very important. Many people say only a T20 MBA is worth it, others say only HBS/GSB for extremely competitive roles. It will be hard to get into IB from LSU

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, the school you attend can play a significant role in breaking into investment banking. Top-tier schools often have strong relationships with banks and can provide more opportunities for networking and internships. However, it's not impossible to break into the industry from a smaller or less well-known school.

If you're considering an MBA from LSU, it could potentially boost your chances, especially if you leverage the resources available to you, such as career services, alumni networks, and internship opportunities.

Remember, it's not just about the school, but also about your skills, experiences, and determination. Networking effectively, maintaining a strong GPA, and gaining relevant experience through internships or relevant roles can also significantly increase your chances of breaking into investment banking.

Keep in mind that this is a competitive field, so it's important to be proactive and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Good luck!

Sources: Is investment banking not as prestigious as most people think? Are kids that break in sub-par?, Mcgill to break into invesment banking?, How do college athletes break into investment banking?, How to break into investment banking for non experienced

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

Name of the school gets you in the door.

I did undergrad in a lowly state school. Currently MFin in T30. Definitely getting in doors that I otherwise would not have. You can have the same skill level but having a brand gives you an edge. You still need the skill to land and carry a job, but it has a higher probability of success - as long as you have a good attitude, I guess.

 

That makes sense. I was worried about how important the undergrad is really, I still have a year left to figure out where to pursue an MBA though, with the benefits it gives in the field I wouldn't mind paying a bit more for it if it gives me better opportunity

 

You still need decent grades though. Mine was engineering but grades were great. And when I tell my story no one questions it.

have had good conversations with senior bankers, just a tough market right now especially more as an international. but grinding on!  

If you plan for an MBA start reaching out to people now and form some connections. Especially those that did MBA with a prior similar uni/field undergrad. People will be more receptive when you relate to their story. And come recruiting, you can get an edge.

 

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