Brown v Northwestern
Recently accepted off the Brown waitlist and previously committed to NU. Really stuck between the two schools as prospects seem similar. I am thinking of a double major in applied math and economics. Which option would be better for IB/PE/Quant?
Also cost is the same so it’s irrelevant. I like Brown better for the much stronger applied math, easier grading, and more chill student body. However, Northwestern seems to have great winter internship opportunities and has a better campus. Additionally, I would be happy with an NYC or Chicago role, but would prefer NYC if possible.
Is it just personal fit I should consider, or is there a clear benefit in one school over the other?
Thanks for the suggestions!
Current Northwestern student here, will offer my thoughts especially since I also chose between NU and Brown out of high school.
If you want to optimize solely for placement, Northwestern is the better choice. We’ve been placing lights out in IB + Buyside for the last 7-8 years as finance interest has grown in the student body. However, Northwestern has grade deflation, a quarter system, and a very overbearing preprofessional culture which creates a very stressful environment. Brown on the other hand seems to be the opposite and you’d probably enjoy your life a lot more. If I had to go back and choose a school, I might go with Brown simply because I think I could’ve gotten the same offer I have now from Brown, and have had a lot more fun in college.
Would you say Georgetown, Northwestern, or Brown is strongest for placement in NYC? How would you rank all 3? Cost isn’t a concern for me.
You do not want to deal with the quarter system. Your classes will always feel like a sprint. Brown is an ivy but as someone who visited there a couple times, Rhode Island stinks relative to Chicago.
That’s what I was considering too, but Brown is ~1 hour from Boston via train and closer to home as I’m from someone from a New England state so location is almost not a factor for me. Thank you
Based on the most helpful WSO content, both Brown and Northwestern are strong choices for your goals in IB/PE/Quant, but there are some key differences to consider:
Brown Advantages:
Northwestern Advantages:
Recruiting and Placement:
Recommendation:
If you prioritize NYC placement, a strong applied math program, and a more relaxed academic environment, Brown might be the better fit. However, if you value the quarter system for internships, a traditional campus experience, and are open to Chicago roles, Northwestern could be a great choice.
Ultimately, since costs are the same, it comes down to personal fit and which environment aligns better with your preferences and career goals. Both schools will provide excellent opportunities for IB/PE/Quant.
Sources: UChicago or Brown for undergrad?, Cornell vs Northwestern for NYC IB/PE?, Undergrad: NYU Stern vs. Cornell A&S Econ, Brown vs. Cornell, Majoring in Wall Street?
Current student at Northwestern here:
NU has very strong recruiting outcomes but would personally go with Brown due to the (very slightly) stronger brand, more chill college experience, and the opportunity to build out your network on the east coast earlier (if that is where you want to end up long-term). If you do your homework and network well you will be able to place well from both schools so you can't really go wrong with either.
Thank you. I saw the recruiting outcomes on NUIBC and they seem really impressive. If you don’t mind could you comment on how hard club recruitment is with the intense quarter schedule?
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