USC Marshall Vs WashU Olin Vs UVA McIntire

Hi guys hope all of y'all are doing great.

I'm a senior and I'm super grateful to be admitted into all 3 of these schools (CAS for UVA but definitely transferring to McIntire). I'm most likely interested in recruiting for banking, and I'd love to work at NYC, but I wouldn't mind working in LA.

In terms of cost, I'm an international student and thus would be full pay at all of these schools.

I'm mostly choosing in between UVA and USC, but WashU remains as a choice.

For USC, I like the LA weather, and I understand that it might be easier to get internships in USC due to its proximity to LA. I've also heard great stuff about USC's Alumni Network, which could help me get a job in my home country if I don't secure one in the States.

For UVA, I understand that it is a higher ranked school and is regarded as a more prestigious business school overall as compared to USC with stronger pipelines and more alumni working on the street. UVA is also 20-30K cheaper a year compared to USC.

I really like studying in USC and LA but I'm worried that I might not end up with the same career opportunities in the future if I don't go to UVA.

If it matters, I'll be on H1B1 Visa after grad and not H1B, which to my knowledge do not need to go through a lottery system and it can be acquired easily (as good as guaranteed) and can be renewed indefinitely.

What do y'all think? Any inputs will be greatly appreciated, thank you!

6 Comments
 

As a person of South Asian descent, do you believe I would be at a disadvantage at McIntire because of how "preppy and undiverse" it is? I was accepted to UVA OOS, so I don't even have any connections to the area. 

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

  1. UVA McIntire:

    • UVA is widely regarded as a top-tier school for investment banking recruiting, particularly for NYC placements.
    • McIntire has a strong reputation and a robust alumni network on Wall Street, which could give you an edge in securing competitive roles.
    • While you're currently admitted to CAS, transferring to McIntire is crucial for maximizing your banking prospects.
    • Additionally, UVA is $20-30K cheaper annually, which is a significant cost advantage, especially as an international student.
  2. USC Marshall:

    • USC offers excellent West Coast placement opportunities, particularly in LA. If you're open to working in LA, USC's proximity to the financial hub there could be advantageous.
    • The alumni network is strong and global, which could be beneficial if you decide to return to your home country.
    • However, for NYC banking roles, UVA generally has a stronger pipeline and reputation.
  3. WashU Olin:

    • While WashU is a solid school, it doesn't have the same level of prestige or placement strength in investment banking as UVA or USC.
    • If NYC or LA banking is your primary goal, WashU would likely be a less competitive choice compared to the other two.

Recommendation:

If your primary goal is NYC investment banking, UVA McIntire is the stronger choice due to its prestige, alumni network, and established pipelines to Wall Street. The cost savings also make it a more financially sound decision. However, if you prefer LA and are open to West Coast opportunities, USC Marshall could be a great fit, especially given your interest in the weather and lifestyle there. WashU Olin, while a good school, would be a distant third for your specific goals.

Sources: UVA Undergrad for IB Recruiting, West Coast Semi Targets, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/any-of-you-bankers-see-uva-alumni-on-the-street-seeking-advice?customgpt=1, USC Marshall vs Vandy Econ

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

Can speak on my experiences at UVA, IMO it depends on where you're actually from as an international. As an American born ORM, I had a fine time networking, but also understand that a lot of networking is being in the right social circles and checking those boxes. 

At the same time though, being in the right clubs, fraternities, and/or business frats can give you all the momentum you'd need. If you're a decently social person, I wouldn't worry about fitting in at UVA, or being excluded from networking b/c of your international status. Feel free to PM if you have questions

 

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