Start Master or reapply?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your decision should hinge on your career goals, the prestige of the programs, and your willingness to wait another year. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Master's in Accounting and Financial Management at Bocconi:

   • Bocconi is highly regarded in Europe, especially in finance-related fields. While the Master's in Finance is more prestigious, the Accounting and Financial Management program still offers strong placement opportunities, particularly in Italy and Europe.
   • If you start this program, you can leverage Bocconi's network and career services to target trading roles at BBs. However, it may not carry the same weight internationally as the Master's in Finance or programs at LSE/HEC.

2. Reapplying to LSE, HEC, HSG, and Bocconi:

   • Programs like LSE's MSc Finance or HEC's MSc International Finance are globally recognized and have strong placement records in BB trading roles. Reapplying could open doors to these top-tier programs, which might better align with your goal of working at a BB as a trader.
   • Your GRE score (336) and strong academic background (28.5/30 GPA, 110 Cum laude) make you a competitive candidate. Adding your current internship in speculative gas trading strengthens your profile further.

3. Key Considerations:

   • Time: Are you willing to wait another year to potentially secure admission to a more prestigious program? If so, reapplying could be worth it.
   • Risk: There’s no guarantee of admission to LSE, HEC, or Bocconi's MSc Finance, even with your strong profile. Consider how you would feel if you reapply and don’t get into these programs.
   • Career Goals: If your primary goal is to work in BB trading, the prestige of the program can matter significantly. Top-tier programs often have better access to BBs and trading desks.

Recommendation:

If you are set on maximizing your chances of landing a BB trading role and are willing to take the risk of reapplying, it may be worth waiting and targeting LSE, HEC, HSG, or Bocconi's MSc Finance. However, if you prefer to start your Master's this year and are comfortable with a slightly less prestigious program, the Master's in Accounting and Financial Management at Bocconi is still a solid choice, especially given Bocconi's strong reputation in Europe.

Sources: Ask Natalie from Accepted about Business School Admissions, Physics undergrad admitted to top b-school, Master’s degree journey, My future after Bocconi?