MSF in US or Spain?
Background: I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) US citizen that was accepted to US programs: Villanova (MSF), UTAustin (MSF), Duke (MMS) and a top program in Spain: IE (MiF).
3.2 GPA from nontarget. 1.5 YOE in FP&A. Passed 2 CFA exams
The US ones all start in Summer and IE in September.
My goal is to get into ER or IBD. Would I have an easier time breaking in if I go to IE since it's a top school in Spain, or will it be easier to try and use the US schools to find work here, even though these programs aren't the best for what I'm looking for?
I also don't have a European citizenship, so will this make Spain harder for recruitment?
Choosing between pursuing an MSF in the US or Spain, especially with your background and goals, requires a careful consideration of several factors. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights that might help you make an informed decision:
Program Reputation and Network: IE in Spain is highly regarded and has a strong reputation, especially in Europe. It's known for its finance programs and could provide you with a robust network in Spain and potentially across Europe. The US programs you mentioned are reputable, but if your aim is to stand out in the finance sector, IE's reputation could be a significant advantage, especially for roles in ER or IBD.
Location and Recruitment Opportunities: If your goal is to work in ER or IBD, consider where you want to work post-graduation. IE might give you a strong foothold in the European market, and its network could be invaluable in Spain and possibly in London, a major financial hub. However, without European citizenship, you might face additional challenges in the job market due to work visa requirements. In contrast, the US programs could provide more straightforward paths to employment in the US, considering your citizenship status.
Language Skills and Cultural Experience: Being bilingual can be a significant asset in the global finance industry. Studying in Spain, mastering your Spanish, and understanding the European market could add valuable dimensions to your profile. This international exposure can be appealing to employers, especially in global firms.
Visa and Work Authorization: Your concern about not having European citizenship is valid. Non-EU citizens often face more hurdles in securing work in Europe due to visa and work permit requirements. It's crucial to research and understand the post-graduation work visa policies in Spain and how they might impact your job search.
Career Services and Alumni Network: Investigate the career services and alumni networks of each program. A strong alumni network and active career services department can significantly impact your job search in either ER or IBD. IE has a robust global network, which could be beneficial if you're looking to work internationally.
In conclusion, if your aim is to leverage a top-tier finance program's reputation and you're open to navigating the complexities of working in Europe as a non-EU citizen, IE could offer a unique and enriching path. However, if you prefer to minimize potential visa complications and aim to work in the US, the programs you've been accepted into offer solid opportunities, especially with your background and CFA progress. Remember, networking and how you leverage the resources available to you in these programs will play a crucial role in achieving your career goals.
Sources: ¿PE/IB/MBB opportunities Spain?, ESADE vs Durham vs Cass, Worldwide MBA Programs divided into tiers, IBD Barriers to Entry For Canadians and How to Overcome Them, IBD Barriers to Entry For Canadians and How to Overcome Them
Good job WSO monkey Bot. This helps
1) IE is a cashcow and you shouldn't go to Spain regardless. Poor wages, not many IBD spots, its not a target to recruit to London, won't mean anything in the USA. I'm sure you get some kind of visa on graduation but 99% impossible to get a 'good' job there.
2) With 1.5 YOE, I would simply work for another year and apply to MBA programs. You then have the advantage of 1) recruiting into IB Associate postions that are purposebuilt for MBA students. By contrast, MSF programs apply to the same IB analyst positions every undergrad is applying for. The only thing your money gets you is a chance to recruit in MSF, at least MBA levels you up. 2) MBA can give you a wider breadth of postions. If you strike out in MSF recruiting, you're kinda fucked.
The USA programs you list are in general fine, but in your position I'd much rather keep my job and just push for the MBA. I assume you have a relatively good GMAT score? Or did you use cfa to get an exemption?
I understand what you mean. I got a 615 on GMAT focus (80th percentile, 680 on old GMAT). I think with a retake and some extra time I could clear 700-720 (old GMAT)
I'm considering the MSF because SSER is something I enjoy and I would like to enter the field before getting MBA. (Maybe go for MBA to get into LO AM if I start with ER route). Also SSER at seems to have different recruiting cycles than IBD.
As a plan B: I really like Charlotte or Atlanta specifically for IBD bc Im from the Southeast. So if I wait and do an MBA in a year or two like you suggested, I would really target UNC, Duke, Emory, or UGA for the regional presence.
I'm still thinking about it and will decide soon closer to the deadlines depending on financial aid.
I've also noticed MBA programs are more flexible on scholarships, whereas MSF program don't provide much scholarship. There's also more optionality at MBA level you could recruit for banking, consulting, ER, buyside, etc, whereas MSF placement is limited to some degree.
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