Stay in America or go to the UK for school

If your long-term goal is to work in the US, attending a UK university like LSE or Edinburgh could make you a unique applicant, but it comes with trade-offs. Here's what you should consider:

1. Recognition in the US Job Market:

   • Schools like LSE are highly regarded globally, especially in finance and economics. However, US employers may be more familiar with domestic schools like UVA, UMich, or Brown. A degree from a UK university might require additional effort to explain its prestige to US recruiters.

2. Networking Opportunities:

   • Networking is a significant factor in landing jobs in the US, particularly in industries like finance. US schools often have stronger alumni networks and on-campus recruiting pipelines for US-based roles. In the UK, networking is less emphasized, and you might miss out on these structured opportunities.

3. Work Authorization:

   • If you study in the UK and want to return to the US for work, you’ll need to ensure you have the right work authorization. Conversely, studying in the US simplifies this process.

4. Unique Factor:

   • A UK education could make you stand out as a candidate with international experience, which is valuable in certain industries. However, this uniqueness might not outweigh the challenges of re-entering the US job market.

5. Cultural and Personal Fit:

   • Consider where you’d feel more comfortable and thrive academically and socially. The UK offers a different educational structure (e.g., more specialized programs), while US schools provide a broader liberal arts education.

6. Safety School Comparison:

   • GA Tech Scheller is a strong safety school, especially for business and STEM fields. It offers excellent opportunities in the US job market, particularly in tech and finance hubs like Atlanta.

Recommendation:

If you’re set on working in the US, attending a top US school like UVA, UMich, or Brown (if admitted) might be the safer and more straightforward path. However, if you’re open to exploring international opportunities or want a unique academic experience, a UK university like LSE could be a great choice. Ultimately, weigh the pros and cons based on your career goals, personal preferences, and the opportunities each school offers.

Sources: One day to decide: US or UK?, Where Should I Apply?, MSF Class of 2018