HBS vs Wharton
Hey all, been through an extremely fortunate R2. Was originally just aiming for a few of the M7s (Kellogg, Sloan), but somehow got into H and W. My post MBA goals aren’t anything crazy, going to MBB and then startup. Definitely not interested in anything finance related (PE/VC).
I come from a non-traditional background so I like Wharton’s quant rigorous curriculum in teaching me the business basics. I also like the curriculum flexibility, mix of teaching methods, as well as no classes on Friday allows me to easily commute to NYC to see my SO/friends.
I know some people say you don’t say no to HBS. Does HBS have a significantly better network if I’m not trying to go buy side finance? Would I be crazy to turn it down?
honestly you should reach out to alumni of both programs. Also reach out to some of your mentors.
What were your stats if you don't mind me asking?
Can't make a wrong decision here either way. You are cleary a top candidate!
You should definitely take HBS...
HBS/GSB carry a pretty significant premium to Wharton these days... whether that is in the MBB world or the startup world where some founders and networks won’t even know what Wharton is. Whether this brand premium is justified is another story
You will certainly learn the “business basics” at HBS lol. Your other points are valid, and if they are critically important to you then that makes sense. But I would think very hard before turning down an HBS or GSB offer for Wharton.
Really, I thought MBB viewed most of the M7s pretty equally. Interesting, I was under the impression that HSW are the three top tier schools and was aware H/S are historically ranked Wharton, but didn’t realize it was that significant just from talking with a few mentors and senior execs.
I’d imagine for startups it wouldn’t really matter if I went HBS -> MBB or Wharton -> MBB.
Let’s break it down in terms of aspects that an elite MBA should satisfy.
1) When choosing MBAs, the most critical criteria is a school enables you to achieve your short term and long term goals. In this case both can do this easily.
2) Establishing a network of future leaders. This one is where some people would argue that HBS offers the better network. But really stress test this assumption. What hard stats are out there to prove this point? Most F500 CEOs or most billionaires? I would argue these stats are way too small to make a meaningful difference. Also, think about the network within the specific startup niche you are trying to get into. If it’s anything B2C, Wharton is right up there with HBS. If it’s some other niches, HBS might have the edge due to more alums in VC, but reach out to alums from both schools. Also if you really don’t care about having a 9/10 network vs a 10/10 network, then this point doesn’t really matter. We are not comparing HBS to a T-10 school (or even a T-5), it’s T-2 vs T-3. You will never be NOT successful because you went to Wharton and not HBS, and similarly you will be successful NOT because you went to HBS and not Wharton. People here place too much of an emphasis on the minute details of school brand imo.
3) How much you will enjoy your 2 years. People usually underestimate this part of it. I personally believe this point connects directly to 2. If you are going to be miserable at HBS, then it directly hinders your ability to network properly and have a solid group of friends at school. If you love the atmosphere at Wharton, you will be much more likely to establish a strong network, and have a good support network beyond school. You can have the best network in the world but if you don’t utilize it correctly, you just have nothing.
From what you’ve said in the original post, I’d say go with your heart on this one, but ask for more $$ from Wharton. Your ST and LT goals can both be achieved and then some from both HBS and Wharton. Both are obviously held in extremely high regards, you will have more fun at Wharton.
Student at Wharton right now and would only turn down HBS for Wharton if given a substantial scholarship. I'm sure HBS is as social/fun as Wharton since they attract similar types of people. You'll probably have a better academic experience at Wharton, but I wouldn't place much emphasis on that when making your decision.
For what its worth, I've met several students who turned down GSB for Wharton. Haven't met someone who picked Wharton over HBS yet, but its also something we generally don't discuss.
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