Vanderbilt MsF or MBA from a T15 to get into IB
Graduated from a T30 state school (UCI/UCSD/UCSB) with an 3.9 in an econ degree. Interned in FP&A and now have a FT job in FP&A. I want to break into IB and am evaluating the following options
Vanderbilt MsF Program: About 40% of the class lands IB roles, mostly at middle-market or boutique firms, and I have seen a few break into Wells Fargo. What I do not know is how many people in the class were actually recruiting for banking. If most of them were, a 40% placement rate is not very strong. Program is 9 months so as soon as you get on campus you're recruiting for FT roles the following year.
Vandy MsF
Pros:
- I get to get into banking sooner rather than later and be a sexy finance chad in NYC (kidding)
- Alumni network is pretty solid.
- Would have a shot at PE as an IB analyst
Cons:
- Placement isn't guaranteed, fighting for one off positions that usually pop up because someone lateraled or just quit.
- mostly MM or boutique placements. Nothing wrong with MM but I don't think I'd want to take 70k debt to place into a boutique
MBA from a T15
Pros:
- Much more structured recruiting at top programs, seems like vast majority of domestic candidates who want it and try get it.
- BB & EB placements
Cons:
- Need to get 2-3 years WE at a minimum, ideal is 4-5, I don't want to work in FP&A for 3 years.
- MBA associate exits are less plentiful
I would appreciate your thoughts and advice, thank you!