Hello! I got into KU Leuven in Belgium for BBA and SGH Warsaw School Of Economics for Bachelor in Management. I want to work for a tier one consulting/IB firm, and maybe even do MBA from a top B-schools later on, so which one should I choose?
Please consider both the universities and countries, I appreciate your help!
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Ah, the classic dilemma of choosing the right university! Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some factors to consider when making your decision:
Reputation in Finance and Consulting: While the specific universities you mentioned aren't directly discussed in the context, reputation can be a significant factor. For example, KU Leuven has a strong overall ranking, which can be beneficial for MBA applications later on. However, it's also important to look at the specific program's reputation in the business and finance community.
Alumni Network: A larger university like KU Leuven, with its extensive student body, might offer a more substantial alumni network, which can be crucial for networking opportunities in consulting and IB.
Location and Language: Consider where you want to work post-graduation. If you're aiming for a career in Europe, the location of your university could provide strategic advantages. Additionally, language skills can be a plus in the job market, so think about whether you'll have the opportunity to learn and use a local language.
Curriculum and Specializations: Look into how well the programs align with your career goals. Does one offer more courses or opportunities in finance and consulting? For instance, a program with a strong emphasis on case studies, internships, and practical experience might be more beneficial.
MBA Pathways: If an MBA is in your future plans, research the track record of graduates from both universities in gaining admission to top MBA programs. Sometimes, universities have partnerships or networks that can facilitate this transition.
Career Services and Recruitment: Investigate each school's career services and the presence of tier-one consulting and IB firms on campus. The frequency and quality of on-campus recruitment events can be a good indicator of the school's industry connections.
Remember, while rankings and reputation are important, the best choice also depends on personal fit, including the culture, vibe, and values of the university. Good luck with your decision!
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/msc-finance-at-tilburg-university-or-msc-business-economics-financial-economics-major?customgpt=1, Physics undergrad admitted to top b-school, Which School To Choose?, Which masters to choose?, Which school to attend? Baruch, UCL or Warwick?
Thank you so much! This was very helpful.
First, I know someone in a similar situation (aren't you from the outsktrirts of tricity?). Investment banking roles focused on mergers, acquisitions, and raising capital are limited in Poland. Most finance jobs here will be back-office, handling tasks like accounting, trade support and IT. For true investment banking experience, you'll likely need to move to a major European financial center like London, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, or Zurich. This transition is nearly impossible after graduating from SGH and still very challenging from even a stronger school like KUL.
Consulting giants like McKinsey, Bain, and Boston Consulting Group (together known as "MBB") do operate in Poland. However, they hire a small number of the very best candidates. If you study at SGH without achieving top grades AND participating in activities outside of class, it's an uphill battle. Success in this field demands a well-rounded profile: stellar academic performance, leadership roles in extracurricular activities, and a demonstrable passion for problem-solving.
Choosing between SGH and KUL presents a unique challenge. KUL, as a more highly-ranked university, provides the prestige and international outlook that consulting firms value. However, SGH, based in Warsaw, may offer more opportunities to engage in consulting-related extracurriculars, boosting your resume and giving you crucial networking opportunities within the industry. I would say that if you want to work in Belgium after your studies, KUL would be a better choice. It would be invaluable to speak with current students at both universities (perhaps someone in your family attends KUL?) to gain their firsthand perspectives.
It's fantastic that you're still early in the application process! I strongly encourage you to consider top-tier European universities like Erasmus University Rotterdam (RSM) and the University of St. Gallen (HSG). While the cost of living and tuition might range from €1.5k-€2k per month (maybe even a bit more for HSG), these schools offer several potential advantages:
Important Note: I want to be transparent – studying abroad might require some financial planning, but the payoff can be immense. The few thousand euros you spend on better education will pay off in the first year of work.
Good luck with your recruitment and future career!
Agreed HSG or RSM can be better options ;)
but cost of living is higher in Switzerland to take into account (and better to speak German for HSG).
Given the background, HSG should be the best overall.
If you find it too expensive, you may want to consider German schools since there is a lot of interaction between CEE and the German economy.
This factor increases your chance of achieving what you want and outweighs the benefits of studying at RSM (given the chances of breaking into Swiss/German/Dutch MBB or consulting/IB are extremely slim)
Thank you so much for sharing!! This was very helpful.
I also got accepted from Universita Cattolica in Milan, will you say that would be more worth? Considering that I may do MBA in Bocconi or some American business schools later on?
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