Vandy vs UMich (LSA) for undergrads if I want to get into VC?

I am a freshman student who is currently being accepted by Vandy and UMich (LSA). If I want to get into IBD then VC, which school should I choose and why? 

if I go to UMich, I will probably major in Econ. For Vandy I will probably major in Human Organizational Development/Econ and minor in CS

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Neither school is particularly strong at venture and I haven't heard much about either school's startup ecosystem. I know UMich is stronger for finance broadly speaking, but don't know if the difference between Ross and non ross students is make or break. Regardless, you should decide where you go to college based on the one that you think will be the best social/academic fit. These 2 schools are pretty different, so I'm sure you have a preference already. Once you're at the college you like, you'll be more motivated to get involved with your school's entrepreneurial ecosystem, and that's the way people "break" into venture. 

 

Currently at UMich and involved in startup scene on tech side. There's at least one student club that focuses on VC, upround ventures. Some people have secured VC internships from there. Ross clubs have solid IB recruitment (and it's not a big deal that you're in LSA — most are available to all majors but competitive to get into). The startup ecosystem seems quite strong, though I don't have much to compare it to. Check out Contrary Capital's page on UMich entrepreneurship, it will point towards resources and orgs on campus. Especially in the past 2 years there have been some brilliant student startups. UMich has the advantage over Vandy in terms of optionality as well — our CS program is great, Ross is great, and I've heard that other majors are highly ranked. This may not seem important right now, but I've been grateful for this since my interests and goals have changed during college, as yours very well might. Finally I'll claim that UMich has the most passionate alumni of any top school. Best of luck with the decision!

 

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