Need to Choose: Vandy HOD vs USC Marshall for MBB

Hey there, I think I might’ve commented on one of your earlier posts.

First of all, congrats on getting into USC. It’s an excellent school and a great accomplishment.

Given that I’m not going down the consulting route, I can’t speak too much as to recruiting for MBB, except to tell you that Vanderbilt does do well with consulting.

Moreover, I was in a very similar position to you a few years ago — got into Vandy and USC. In fact, USC’s financial aid rendered the cost of attendance practically null. I spoke to a lot of people when making the decision to ask about school reputation and career placement — from family friends working in academia to people working in the financial services industry.

A lot of them agreed on one thing — both would be great schools to attend, but they advised to choose Vandy if I could stomach the cost premium over USC. Given that the difference in my personal financial aid offers was relatively small, I went with Vandy. Looking back on it, I think it was the right choice.

I know of one person who chose USC over schools such as Vandy and Amherst, but that was because his intended area of study (real estate) wasn’t offered at the other schools. In your case, you will be well served by both schools.

I do recommend choosing Vandy if financially feasible (that’s very important), although I might be a bit biased :)

Feel free to message me if you have any Vandy specific questions!