Amherst College (Econ) or Cornell (ILR)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, both Amherst College and Cornell University are excellent choices, but there are key factors to consider:

1. Cost: If Amherst matches Cornell's financial aid offer, the cost difference becomes negligible. However, if Cornell remains free, that’s a significant financial advantage, especially as a transfer student who may want to minimize debt.

2. Recruitment and Alumni Network:

   • Cornell ILR: Cornell has a strong reputation for placing students into finance, consulting, and other competitive industries. The ILR program, while not a traditional finance/business major, offers flexibility and access to Cornell's extensive alumni network, which is particularly strong in NYC and finance-related fields.
   • Amherst College: Amherst is an elite liberal arts college with a strong alumni network and excellent academic reputation. However, as a smaller school, on-campus recruiting (OCR) may be less robust compared to Cornell. You might need to hustle more with networking and alumni outreach, but Amherst alumni are known to be very supportive.

3. Age and Fit:

   • At Amherst, being a 25-year-old transfer student might make you feel slightly out of place, as the student body is smaller and younger on average. However, the proximity to UMass Amherst and the Five College Consortium could provide opportunities to connect with a broader and more diverse group of students.
   • Cornell, being a larger university, has a more diverse student body in terms of age and background. You might find it easier to blend in and connect with peers.

4. Location and Environment:

   • Amherst offers a close-knit, liberal arts environment with a focus on education for its own sake. It’s ideal if you value small class sizes and a tight community.
   • Cornell, located in Ithaca, provides a larger campus experience with more resources, clubs, and activities. It’s also closer to NYC, which could be advantageous for networking and internships.

Recommendation:

If Amherst matches Cornell’s financial aid offer, the decision comes down to personal preference: - Choose Cornell ILR if you prioritize a larger school with a strong alumni network, robust OCR, and a more diverse student body. - Choose Amherst College if you value a smaller, more intimate academic environment and are willing to put in extra effort for networking.

If financial aid remains unequal, Cornell’s free tuition makes it the more practical choice.