Michigan Ross BBA ($80k) vs. UW-Madison BBA ($28k)
High school senior here. I was fortunate enough to be accepted to both of these universities out of state. I am a low income student and received decent financial aid for both. Michigan is my top choice, however it is considerably more expensive at $80K net cost ($20k per year) vs. $7k/yr at Wisconsin. Right now I'm leaning toward Ross based on academics, student organizations, network, and placement. I'm aiming for IB right after undergrad. Also I'm waitlisted for Cornell's Hotel School and Claremont McKenna (economics). Thanks in advance for any information and advice that can help me decide what school to attend.
If you can make the 80k work financially, go to Ross. Great IB placement and the Ross reputation on the street is continuously improving. Social experience will be on par with, if not better than, UW-Madison and significantly better than Cornell/CM
Michigan is definitely the better school, but the financial difference is significant. If you have to take out the full cost in loans, then I'd say you'll be better off at Wisconsin (which is still a solid state school!), assuming you take advantage of your opportunities. It will be more of an uphill battle, but avoiding significant student debt is worth the slight extra challenge of finding internships and jobs. I chose to attend a state school much lower ranked than UW because of a full-ride, and still got internship offers at 2 BBs. Assuming you get involved and make great grades, a non-target school isn't the death sentence it's made out to be.
On the other hand, if you're able to work summer jobs/part time during the school year to minimize the debt burden of Michigan, then it might be worth it to pay extra for the boost in recruiting options and prestige. Outside of the financial burden and prestige factor, also consider where you would be happiest and would fit in the best.
If you can make it work, I would recommend Ross. You'll be better off for IB or if you do something else like consulting or F500 finance.
Is the 80k NET COST the cost you have to take out in loans or are you not considering your college savings? If your leave Ross with less than 30-40k in loans for sure go there. Otherwise it is up to you. Most college students leave with around 35k in loans which is very manageable.
Was accepted to both schools as well and made a very similar decision, but chose on a school in the west coast. I would choose Ross every time.
Aut exercitationem sapiente a illo quibusdam et est. Veniam totam sed perferendis temporibus laboriosam quasi. Rerum qui aperiam aut nemo magnam aliquid maiores.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...