Cornell Business School

Cornell University, particularly its business programs, is highly respected both in the United States and internationally for careers in finance, including investment banking (IB) and project finance. Here's what you need to know:

1. Strong Placement in Finance: Cornell consistently places well into top finance roles, including IB. According to WSO data, Cornell is among the top schools with a significant representation in large Wall Street firms, alongside institutions like NYU, Harvard, and UPenn. Its alumni network is expansive and influential, which is a major advantage for finance careers.

2. Cornell Johnson MBA Program: The Johnson School at Cornell has a strong focus on finance, with structured opportunities and a collaborative culture. Alumni discourage overly competitive behavior, fostering a supportive environment during the recruiting process. The program has achieved impressive internship-to-full-time conversion rates in IB, with 95-100% in recent years.

3. Transfer-Friendly and Alumni Network: Cornell is known as one of the most transfer-friendly Ivy League schools, which has contributed to its diverse and robust alumni base. This network is a key asset for job placement in finance, both domestically and internationally.

4. Comparison to Other Schools: While Cornell is highly regarded, other top schools like Dartmouth, Duke, and NYU also place well into finance roles. However, Cornell's size and alumni network often give it an edge in terms of opportunities and connections.

In summary, Cornell is an excellent choice for a career in finance, offering strong placement, a collaborative culture, and a vast alumni network. If you're aiming for IB or project finance, you'll find plenty of resources and opportunities to succeed.

Sources: Brown vs. Cornell, Review of Investment Banking Recruiting at Cornell Johnson, Cornell vs Michigan vs Dartmouth school choices, Review of Investment Banking Recruiting at Cornell Johnson, Q&A: Johnson (Cornell) 2nd Year MBA Ask Me Anything