Is Umich LSA worth 85k/yr as a transfer?
Got accepted to both Umich LSA (Econ) and SMU (still waiting for Cox decisions) so far, Umich has been a top choice for me from the start but being that I got into LSA and not into Ross is the price tag worth it as a Junior transfer? For context, I am transferring from a California community college/2 year OOS.
Interested in MM Banking but honestly not a dealbreaker for me if I can't get a job in IB, I am open to other careers in finance too.
I have applied to many other universities as well such as Berkley HAAS (in-state), Vanderbilt, UNC, etc.. But the OOS tuition is up there.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, transferring to UMich LSA (Econ) for $85k/year as a junior transfer is a significant financial commitment, especially since you are not in Ross. While UMich has strong placement in finance, the path to MM Banking or other finance roles from LSA Econ is more challenging compared to Ross due to limited access to on-campus recruiting (OCR) and fewer direct pipelines to top firms.
Here are some key considerations:
Placement from LSA Econ: While UMich LSA Econ students can break into finance, it requires exceptional networking and extracurricular involvement. Ross students have a clear advantage with OCR and a stronger alumni network in finance.
Cost vs. Return: $85k/year is a steep price, especially as a transfer student. If you are open to other careers in finance and not solely focused on IB, you might find similar opportunities at schools with lower costs or better financial aid.
Alternative Options: If you get into Berkeley Haas (in-state), it would likely be a better financial and career-oriented choice. Haas has a strong reputation and excellent placement in finance roles, including IB. Similarly, Vanderbilt and UNC (if admitted) could offer strong finance opportunities, but their OOS tuition might also be high.
SMU Cox Decision: If you are admitted to SMU Cox, it could be a viable alternative. Cox has solid placement in finance, particularly in the Texas region, and might come with a lower price tag compared to UMich.
Recommendation:
Ultimately, weigh the financial cost against the career opportunities and your willingness to network and hustle for finance roles outside of Ross.
Sources: Undergrad School OPTIONS (please help), The Comprehensive List of Transfer Friendly Schools For Investment Banking, Choosing Between USC and Ross, help?, Is transferring to the University of Virginia worth $100,000?, Cornell Dyson vs Berkeley vs Claremont Mckenna vs ND Mendoza vs USC Marshall vs Stern
Yes. Michigan is a fantastic school and you will have all the resources of Ross. Just major in something relevant (or that you’re good at, whatever it takes to keep your GPA up), join some Ross clubs (yes, they take non Ross applicants too), maybe rush a frat (personally would recommend social over business, but whatever rocks your boat), and get a relevant internship of some sort before you start school. The name on your resume will be a lifetime asset, and outside of the Ivy+ Schools, you can’t get much better than Michigan, especially for finance. That price tag will be a rounding error down the line. Have seen it time and again.
What social frats would you recommend rushing that also have a strong finance pipeline or is that not connected. Also is joining a business fraternity as well as social recommended or just joining one and some clubs.
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