Seeking Advice: UVA McIntire vs. Cornell Nolan Hotel School for IB, PE, or Consulting

Hey everyone,

I'm currently deciding between applying Early Decision to UVA and attending the McIntire School of Commerce or going to Cornell's Nolan Hotel School, with the goal of breaking into investment banking (IB), private equity (PE), or consulting. I’ve also considered Cornell’s Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, but the acceptance rates are so low that I don’t think it’s realistic for me.

I have very strong business-oriented extracurriculars, though none of them are hospitality-related, except for being the president of the entrepreneurship club at my school. Eventually, I’m looking to secure job placements in NYC, so that’s a major factor in my decision-making process.

Given my goals of working in IB, PE, or consulting, I’m trying to figure out which path would give me the best opportunities post-graduation. For those with experience in these fields, which school would you recommend and why?

Any advice on the strength of alumni networks, recruiting, and career outcomes from either McIntire or Nolan—particularly with a focus on NYC placements—would be super helpful!

Thanks in advance!

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