Cornell (Johsnson) vs Duke (Fuqua) For IB
I'm in my late 20s and got into both schools. I'm from the NE, so leaning more towards Cornell, but the vibe at the school seems really fucking off. Everyone seems to be really intense and obsessed with IB and MBA campus culture comes across as really woke and gossipy for an MBA program full of late 20/early 30 year-olds. IB seems interesting as a career but I'm not overly invested in a brand or prestige of a particular bank i.e. bulge bracket or bust.
Is it really worth going to Johnson for the recruiting? And did anyone have any similar experiences or stories? Duke seems to have comparatively fewer placements in IB but does seem a lot more chill from the people I've met. Curious to hear people's pros/cons of both schools.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:
Cornell Johnson for IB: - Johnson has leaned heavily into investment banking, making it a core focus of the program. It provides robust recruiting opportunities across all major bulge bracket (BB) and elite boutique (EB) banks on Wall Street. - If you're a career switcher or someone looking to break into IB, Johnson offers a strong platform to achieve that goal. The program is designed to help students control their own destiny in terms of placement. - However, the culture at Johnson has been described as intense, with a heavy focus on IB recruiting. This could explain the "obsessed" vibe you mentioned. It’s a high-pressure environment, which might not suit everyone.
Duke Fuqua for IB: - Fuqua places fewer students into IB compared to Johnson, but it still offers solid opportunities. The program is more diversified, with strong placements in consulting, tech, and other industries. - The culture at Fuqua is often described as collaborative and "chill," which aligns with your observations. If you're looking for a less intense environment, Fuqua might be a better cultural fit.
Key Considerations: 1. Geography: Since you're from the Northeast and leaning towards staying there, Johnson might have a slight edge due to its proximity and strong Wall Street connections. 2. Career Goals: If you're not overly invested in prestige or specific banks, Fuqua could still provide you with solid IB opportunities while offering a more balanced MBA experience. 3. Culture Fit: The vibe and culture of the program are critical. If you feel uncomfortable with the intensity at Johnson, it could impact your overall MBA experience.
Ultimately, both schools can get you into IB, but the decision comes down to your personal preferences for culture, environment, and how much you value the recruiting edge Johnson provides.
Sources: Review of Investment Banking Recruiting at Cornell Johnson, Review of Investment Banking Recruiting at Cornell Johnson
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