College Advice - Georgia Tech vs USC

Hi everyone,

Want some last-minute advice before I commit. Was accepted into USC econ ($58k) and Georgia Tech econ ($19k) with flexibility to change majors. Interested in investment banking, would it be a struggle or even possible to break in through Georgia Tech?

USC is my personal preference as it has a better student life, but GT is close to home and the price is hard to beat. Is taking $120k debt for USC worth it for the extra advantages?

If you have any last-minute advice, please let me know!

 

Based on the WSO dataset, the decision between USC and Georgia Tech for a career in investment banking should consider several factors:

  1. Cost vs. Opportunity: Georgia Tech, while not traditionally known as a target school for investment banking, offers a significantly lower cost of education ($19k) compared to USC ($58k). This reduced financial burden could allow more flexibility post-graduation, especially if you decide to pursue further education like an MBA.

  2. Recruitment and Network: USC, on the other hand, may provide better on-campus recruiting opportunities for investment banking due to its location and stronger alumni network in finance. The proximity to major financial hubs and firms can facilitate networking and internships, which are crucial for breaking into investment banking.

  3. Flexibility and Personal Preference: You mentioned a preference for USC due to better student life and the flexibility to change majors. These are important considerations as they can significantly impact your college experience and opportunities for personal growth.

  4. Long-term Financial Consideration: Taking on $120k debt is substantial, and it's essential to weigh this against the potential return on investment. While USC might offer more direct paths into investment banking, the financial strain could limit your options later, especially if the job market is competitive.

In conclusion, if minimizing debt and staying close to home are priorities, and you are proactive in seeking out internships and networking opportunities, Georgia Tech could be a viable option. However, if the network and recruitment opportunities at USC significantly outweigh these factors and you are confident in your ability to secure a high-paying role post-graduation, USC could justify the additional cost. Consider your long-term career goals, personal financial situation, and the value you place on the college experience when making your decision.

Sources: Is it valuable to take on debt to go to an Ivy League or other prestigious university, to get onto Wall Street?, Undergrad at Fordham Gabelli Lincoln Center with $160k debt. Is it worth it?, Choosing Between USC and Ross, help?, Is transferring to the University of Virginia worth $100,000?

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

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