UCSB vs. Wisconsin vs. Georgia Tech for undergrad
I'm a high school senior, and my current top choices for schools I was admitted to are UCSB, Wisconsin, and Georgia Tech. I've also been waitlisted at UVA and UMich, but I'm not expecting to get off those waitlists (though, I would likely go to either of these over my current three options). I'm not dead set on any specific career right now, but am interested in IB, consulting, and real estate. I'm also somewhat interested in working in NYC early in my career, but definitely wouldn't mind west coast or Chicago. I know that these schools aren't really targets for finance, but was hoping to get some input/advice. I'm from CA, so UCSB would be ~40k/year, Wisconsin would be ~60k/year, and GA Tech would be ~55k/year. Cost isn't a concern, but I'll get to keep whatever remains in my college fund after paying for the 4 years, so a less expensive school would be nice. Aside from career opportunities, I know that UCSB and Wisconsin would both be really fun, but I'm not so sure about GA Tech. UCSB's location and weather are also huge pluses. Does anyone know how the three schools compare in terms of job opportunities? Any other input/advice?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's how these schools stack up for your interests in IB, consulting, and real estate:
Georgia Tech: While not a traditional target for finance, Georgia Tech has a strong reputation in engineering and tech-related fields, which can be leveraged for consulting roles, especially in tech consulting. Its alumni network and proximity to Atlanta provide decent opportunities in the Southeast. However, it may not be as strong for breaking into NYC finance roles compared to other schools.
Wisconsin: The University of Wisconsin-Madison has a solid business school (Wisconsin School of Business) and a growing presence in finance. It places decently into Chicago and Midwest finance roles, but breaking into NYC or West Coast finance might require extra effort in networking. Wisconsin also offers a vibrant campus life, which aligns with your preference for a fun college experience.
UCSB: UCSB is not traditionally known for finance placements, but its location and weather are significant lifestyle advantages. For West Coast opportunities, especially in real estate, UCSB could be a good choice. However, breaking into NYC finance roles from UCSB would likely require substantial networking and leveraging alumni connections.
Key Considerations:
Advice:
Ultimately, your success in IB, consulting, or real estate will depend heavily on your GPA, internships, and networking efforts, regardless of the school you choose.
Sources: Georgetown MSB vs Michigan Ross vs UC Berkeley, UIUC vs Georgia Tech for CS undergrad (interested in quant trading/research), Undergrad: Help me choose college- Please (UNC-CH vs USC vs UW-Madison vs UW-Milwaukee), UC Berkeley Undergrad for IB Recruiting, UT vs USC vs Vanderbilt vs Emory for Undergrad
I would choose based on fit. Tour each school and see where you are most comfortable and think you can succeed.
All three are basically similar in that you will need to run the non-target playbook to break in. I went to UCSB and had no issue breaking in, but you need to start from day one. Join the finance club as a freshman wherever you choose and you should be able to secure at least one offer. The opportunity set obviously won’t be the same as more typical finance schools, but you can create your own good luck by widening the aperture, making strong connections, and being well-prepped for any interviews you do secure.
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