Emory (oxford) or UF, UIUC, Ohio state, IU

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

1. Emory (Oxford Campus) and High Finance Recruiting:

   • Emory is indeed a stronger choice for breaking into high finance compared to the state schools you listed. However, the Oxford campus does present some challenges. The lack of business resources and the need to commute to the main campus for clubs can be a disadvantage. Clubs are often critical for networking, skill-building, and gaining access to alumni connections, which are essential for investment banking (IB) recruiting.

2. Importance of Clubs:

   • At many schools, including Emory, clubs play a significant role in IB recruiting. They often serve as pipelines to top firms, providing interview prep, networking opportunities, and access to alumni. However, gaining entry into these clubs can be competitive, especially if you're coming from the Oxford campus. The main campus clubs may prioritize students already based there, so you might face additional hurdles.

3. Recruiting Without Clubs:

   • While it is possible to recruit without being in these clubs, it requires significantly more effort. Networking aggressively, leveraging alumni connections, and excelling in technical preparation are crucial. As seen in other WSO threads, students who hustle and network effectively can still break into IB, even without club involvement, but it’s a steeper climb.

4. Oxford Campus Business Clubs:

   • The business clubs at the Oxford campus may not have the same level of resources, alumni connections, or prestige as those on the main campus. Their impact on high finance recruiting might be limited, so transitioning to the main campus early (as you plan) could be a smart move.

5. Graduating Early from Oxford:

   • Graduating a semester early from Oxford to transition to the main campus for recruiting is a strategic idea. However, the feasibility of this depends on your ability to meet academic requirements and manage your course load. You should consult with academic advisors at Emory to confirm whether this plan is realistic.

6. State Schools (UF, UIUC, Ohio State, IU):

   • These schools are generally considered non-targets for IB, but they do have some pathways into finance. For example:
     • UF: The MSF program is well-regarded and can provide a boost for finance recruiting.
     • UIUC: Known for accounting and finance, but breaking into IB often requires being in top finance-related clubs.
     • Ohio State and IU: These schools have finance clubs and alumni networks, but they are less competitive compared to Emory.

Recommendation:

If breaking into high finance is your primary goal, Emory (even with the Oxford campus challenges) is likely your best bet. However, you’ll need to be proactive: - Plan to transition to the main campus as early as possible. - Network aggressively with alumni and professionals. - Focus on excelling academically and preparing for technical interviews.

If you choose a state school, consider UF for its MSF program or UIUC for its finance reputation, but be prepared to work harder to overcome the non-target status.

Sources: UMich Undergrad For IB Recruiting, UMich Undergrad For IB Recruiting, Short Emory, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/high-finance-is-paradise?customgpt=1