How important is it getting a Masters or MBA?

I'm a high school senior and I would like to work in either Consulting or Investment Banking. I have a list of target schools and semi-target schools that I'm applying to, but most of them are out of state and cost more. I know how important it is to go to a target school for the undergrad for IB/Consulting, but my parents want me to go to my state school and then get a Masters or MBA at a top B- school. I think that this is a waste of time, and it's better for me to go a target school and pay the extra money, but get a better job out of undergrad. Which is a better option, and how many of you guys have or will get a higher degree? Also, what's the benefit of taking the CFA exam? I live in Arizona.

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You're already anon. Tell us what state you live in. Depending on the state you live in, the state school might still be possible to get a good job out of. You can grind and do it. But I get what you mean. You'd rather increase your chances of getting that great first job and the best way seems like getting into a target. Depending on your stats, look at semi-targets that give good merit scholarships. Might decrease the cost a lot for you. If you apply to the right kind of schools, it's possible to pay a reasonably low amount, get a good first job, AND (I think this one is very important), have some fun!

As far as a masters or an MBA, if you can get that first good job then you don't need it. But if you don't, you still need good work experience to get into a good MBA program. Otherwise, you won't get into one that'll give you what you want. Trust me, you can break into IB or consulting from a LOT of schools if you start grinding right away.

As for CFA, but I know you need work experience to take it. It's very time consuming to study for, and as a high school senior, there's probably better ways to spend your time. Also, you're a rising senior. Focus on that. The classes you'll take this year will be the hardest, AND you'll be subject to senioritis. Just study ahead a little bit so your GPA doesn't fall. Continue working hard with your extracurriculars and make sure to get as many leadership positions as you can get. And one more thing. The thing this entire thread was about. Your damn college applications. Dedicate a LOT of time to your essays and get them professionally reviewed (trust me, it's a worthy investment).

You got this!

 

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