IBA RSM vs Medicine
Hi everyone,
I’m a Dutch student trying to decide between two very different paths and could really use some honest advice. I consider myself average-smart (not extremely gifted, but not struggling either) and I’m willing to work very hard. On one hand, there’s IBA at Rotterdam School of Management (RSM). A bachelor plus a master would likely take 4–5 years in total. I’m curious about the kinds of careers this can realistically lead to, the potential salaries, and what day-to-day life is like in this field.
On the other hand, there’s Medicine in the Netherlands. This is a much longer and intense path: 6 years of study, plus an additional half-year waiting period for clinical rotations (coschappen). I’ve heard it’s very demanding, both academically and emotionally. However, it’s also a very respected profession with clear career progression and stability, and the work can be deeply rewarding if you enjoy medicine.
My main questions are: Which path is generally more enjoyable or fulfilling day-to-day? Which path is more likely to lead to a financially comfortable life? Considering I’m average-smart but highly willing to put in effort. I’d also love to hear from anyone who’s done either IBA/RSM or Medicine in the Netherlands about their experiences, what they would have done differently.
Thanks in advance for your insights and honesty!
Hi both are excellent paths, my recommendation is to do what you love. If your dream is to be a doctor then go for it. IBA RSM can also lead to a successful life and good salary but really the most important is to do something you love and want to do when you wake up in the morning.
Thanks for your reply!
I get what you’re saying, and I agree that doing what you love is important. But what worries me is that when I look at LinkedIn, especially at Dutch BBA rsm graduates, most of them don’t seem to end up in particularly impressive or exciting careers. Many of them end up at the Big 4 in audit or similar roles, and honestly, that kind of path really puts me off. It makes me doubt how far IBA can really take you unless you’re exceptionally smart or well-connected.
Well I don't agree, you apply where you want go and if you are not what happy with these roles you can always create your own company to do something at your image. IBA can set you up for success but then it depends on you and what career choices you take!
Which student associations are worth joining if you want to aim for finance or consulting? And how do you usually get your first internship? Does RSM help with that, or do you have to figure everything out yourself? Should I already start preparing certain skills or certifications before or during the first year? Or any other tips?
RSM case club for consulting and B&R beurs for finance. You are responsible to find your first internship but you can count on RSM (although you might need to find it yourself if you want something precise). I would focus on finishing your high school with the best grades possible. Then you will have time to do the skills certifications courses that fit with what you like/want to do afterwards :)
Just do a double degree if you want to test it out
A business degree is almost worthless, and there are very few junior positions nowadays
You are very likely to end up with a low-paying and non-prestigious job
Seems to me you’re prestige hunting, if you don’t find most careers impressive that roll out of IBA. To me it screams your consideration would be high finance or consulting. You better pick what you really want to do instead of what you think looks the coolest cause they’re vastly vastly different.
There’s nothing wrong with being a prestige hunter
Many people dislike their jobs, and simply being interested in a role won’t make you dislike it less....
You can only say something isn’t for you once you’ve actually been there.
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