Delaware vs Binghamton

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you need to consider:

1. Binghamton University:

   • Binghamton is considered a non-target school for investment banking (IB), with most placements going into Big 4 accounting firms. Around 50-60% of the graduating class from the School of Management (SOM) heads to Big 4 roles.
   • Breaking into IB from Binghamton is possible but requires proactive involvement in the Finance Society Club from your first semester. This club provides opportunities like case competitions and access to Binghamton’s student-run investment fund.
   • However, as an Economics major (non-SOM), you may face additional challenges since the SOM is the primary feeder for finance-related roles.

2. University of Delaware:

   • Delaware’s business/finance program may offer better alignment with your career goals in finance. Being in a business/finance major could provide more direct access to relevant coursework, networking opportunities, and recruiting pipelines compared to an Economics major at Binghamton.
   • While Delaware is also not a target school, being in a business/finance program could give you a slight edge over Binghamton’s non-SOM Economics program.

3. Staying at Buffalo:

   • Buffalo, like Binghamton, is a non-target school. However, you already have a 4.0 GPA, which is a strong foundation. If you’re in the Accounting program, you have a clear path to Big 4 firms, which can be a stepping stone to other finance roles or an MBA.
   • Transferring to another non-target school (Binghamton or Delaware) may not significantly improve your chances unless the new program offers better networking or recruiting opportunities.

Recommendation:

• If your goal is to break into IB or finance, transferring to Delaware as a business/finance major seems like the better option compared to Binghamton’s Economics program. The business/finance focus aligns more closely with your career aspirations.
• However, if you’re considering staying at Buffalo, focus on maintaining your 4.0 GPA, building a strong network, and leveraging Big 4 opportunities as a stepping stone. Alternatively, you could aim to transfer to a target or semi-target school for better IB recruiting opportunities.

Let me know if you need further clarification!