Columbia vs Booth

Undergrad from non-target going into IB. got into these schools deferred. Which one would you recommend putting deposit down for? Top priority is PE career prospects as I hope to transition to MM PE after IBD. However, also care about international brand recognition

15 Comments
 

This is a difficult choice. Sure, Booth is overall a tier or half a tier above but for your specific goals I think it's fairly even. Being in NYC is just a huge bonus when it comes to networking and in-semester internships. Plus, CBS' new campus will most likely be done by the time you matriculate, which eliminates probably the biggest complaint about CBS (its facilities). International brand recognition wise, CBS is definitely a tier above Booth.

 

My opinion is that Booth is higher ranked than CBS and many of my colleagues who were Boothies absolutely loved their time there. There are a couple classes at Booth I believe that let you work at a PE firm for a quarter+ as a part of your courseload. Very strong coffee chat culture and recruiting opps so don't think MM PE should be too difficult depending on your background. Great IBD recruiting.

 

I think Booth is a better program, better facilities, higher rankings etc.

However, Columbia has a stronger international brand, due to it being an Ivy League institution at the undergrad level, which people overseas and particularly in Asia latch on to.

Due to its location I would give Columbia the advantage for NY recruiting, but honestly don’t think it makes much of a difference. Both schools offer the chance to do in semester internships, either through the school (Booth) or direct with firms in NYC.

FWIW I chose Booth over Columbia.

 

Go to booth if you plan to work in Chicago LT. Go to Columbia if staying in NYC is your goal. M7 rankings outside H/S and perhaps W are questionable, and the decision ultimately comes down to your location preferences.

 

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