Cornell Johnson MBA for Project Finance IB Career
Hey, I got acceptance from Cornell Johnson MBA program with 80K$ total scholarship and also from NYU Stern but with no scholarship. After MBA, I would like to go into Project Finance group at a top Investment Bank and then after few years, go into infra-based PE. I am thinking to join Cornell because of scholarship. I am also thinking should I wait one more year and reapply next year at better programs (Wharton, Booth, CBS), but considering I already have 5 YOE, so I am bit concerned about waiting for one more year. Any advice would be really helpful.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to consider:
Scholarship Advantage: Cornell Johnson's $80K scholarship is a significant financial benefit. This reduces your debt burden and provides more flexibility in your career choices post-MBA, especially if you plan to transition to infrastructure-based private equity, which might require some financial runway.
Recruiting Strengths: Cornell Johnson has a strong track record in investment banking recruiting, particularly for bulge bracket banks. While NYU Stern has a slight edge in terms of location and access to NYC-based firms, Cornell's alumni network and placement in IB roles are robust, as highlighted in WSO discussions.
Project Finance Focus: Both schools can provide pathways into Project Finance groups at top investment banks. However, Cornell's smaller class size and tight-knit community might offer more personalized support and networking opportunities, which could be advantageous for targeting specific groups like Project Finance.
Long-Term Goals: If your ultimate goal is infrastructure-based private equity, both programs can serve as a stepping stone. However, the reduced financial pressure from the scholarship at Cornell might allow you to take calculated risks or explore opportunities more freely.
Location Consideration: NYU Stern's proximity to Wall Street offers unparalleled access to networking events, internships, and alumni in NYC. If you believe this proximity is critical for your career goals, it might outweigh the scholarship advantage.
In summary, Cornell Johnson with the $80K scholarship is a compelling option, especially if you value a strong IB recruiting pipeline and reduced financial burden. However, if you prioritize immediate access to NYC's finance ecosystem and can manage the financial implications, NYU Stern could also be a strong contender.
Sources: Review of Investment Banking Recruiting at Cornell Johnson, Review of Investment Banking Recruiting at Cornell Johnson, Cornell CAS (Econ) Vs Fordham GBHP vs NYU Stern For Breaking Into IB, Cornell vs Northwestern for NYC IB/PE?, Undergrad: NYU Stern vs. Cornell A&S Econ
Sint quae quas non repudiandae est. Aspernatur nesciunt consequatur voluptas reiciendis asperiores laboriosam et qui. Vel voluptatem quibusdam ad et laudantium occaecati voluptatum.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...