Masters at a top EU Businnes school as an undergrad from Poland.

Hey everyone,

My reason for starting this thread is that I need advice on choosing an undergraduate school in Poland that would make it easier for me to get into a top master’s program abroad.

A little context: I am currently graduating from high school and am set on working in finance—preferably investment banking or something related. My chances of getting into a top European school for my undergraduate studies are slim, but I have the option to attend either the Warsaw School of Economics (SGH) or Koźmiński University (ALK).

I realize, however, that it is significantly easier to get a well-paid job in IB, both in Poland and abroad, with a foreign diploma. That’s why I’d like to complete a master’s program at a top European business school after finishing my undergraduate studies in Poland.

My question is this: keeping my CV, career prospects, and plan to pursue a master’s degree abroad in mind, which option would be better for my bachelor’s degree?

  • Finance and Accounting (in Polish!) at the Warsaw School of Economics
  • Finance and Accounting (an English diploma) at Koźmiński University

I’d love to hear how difficult it is to maintain a good GPA at SGH, as I know this is an important factor in the recruitment process abroad. Also, how important is the reputation of one’s undergraduate school for a future career abroad (if either of these schools has any to offer...)?

This is a big dilemma, as Koźmiński would allow me to earn a degree in English and a double diploma with IESEG School of Management. It also seems that maintaining a good GPA at Koźmiński might be much easier.

Can either of these schools offer any support in preparing for the GMAT or in securing good internships? Which one is better?

I’m really looking forward to hearing your thoughts and any additional information you may find relevant. If you’re a graduate of either of these two schools, I’d especially appreciate your insight.

Thanks in advance,
fleksik12

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you need to consider:

  1. Reputation and International Recognition:

    • The Warsaw School of Economics (SGH) is generally regarded as the top economics and finance school in Poland, with a stronger reputation both domestically and internationally. This could carry more weight when applying to top European master’s programs.
    • Koźmiński University (ALK), while not as prestigious as SGH, offers an English-taught program and a double diploma with IESEG School of Management, which could enhance your international profile.
  2. Language of Instruction:

    • Completing your degree in English at Koźmiński could be advantageous for your future career abroad, as it demonstrates proficiency in the language of global finance. Additionally, the double diploma with IESEG could provide a direct pathway to networking and opportunities in Western Europe.
  3. GPA and Academic Rigor:

    • SGH is known for its academic rigor, which might make maintaining a high GPA more challenging. However, a strong GPA from SGH could carry more weight in applications to top master’s programs.
    • Koźmiński might offer a slightly easier path to a high GPA, which is crucial for master’s applications. If you’re confident in your ability to excel academically, SGH might be the better choice.
  4. Support for GMAT and Internships:

    • Research whether either school has dedicated resources for GMAT preparation or career services that can help you secure internships. Koźmiński’s international focus and partnerships might provide better support in this regard, but SGH’s reputation could open doors to competitive internships in Poland.
  5. Career Prospects:

    • If your goal is to work in investment banking or finance abroad, the double diploma from Koźmiński and IESEG could give you a head start in building an international network. However, SGH’s strong alumni network in Poland and its reputation might also help you secure internships or jobs that could later lead to opportunities abroad.

Recommendation:

  • If your priority is to maximize your chances of getting into a top European master’s program, Koźmiński University’s English-taught program with the double diploma from IESEG might be the better option. The international exposure and easier GPA maintenance could outweigh SGH’s stronger domestic reputation.
  • However, if you’re confident in your ability to excel academically and want the prestige of a more recognized institution, SGH could be the better choice, especially if you plan to leverage its reputation for internships and networking in Poland.

Ultimately, your decision should align with your strengths (e.g., language skills, academic performance) and long-term career goals.

Sources: Help! Full Offer decision between Credit Suisse IB and Allianz Global Investors Graduate Programme, NYC vs. London vs. Zurich vs. FFM, UChicago Econ Undergrad into IB, Brandeis MA in international economics and finance (full tuition) or Vandy MSF, Boston College Carroll School of Management Finance Concentration vs. Vanderbilt Econ and Biz minor (Undergrad)

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