Northeastern CBA vs BU SMG

Hey guys i realize this isn't the topic that is usually discussed here but i figured you guys can help add some valuable information. I was excepted to BU SMG a couple months back and just recently got off the wait list for Northeastern CBA. FInances are comparable at both. Which school would you suggest is more beneficial in terms of job placement after school? I know Northeastern has a pretty strong alumni network and has a better business school but BU is also ranked higher as an institution. Any help would be great thanks.

 

I am a student at SMG right now and I can confidently tell you that neither schools should be your top choice, especially if you want to go into finance. From what I hear, NE kids haven't the slightest chance of making it to a BB and have a coop program that places you in a firm like TJ Maxx. At BU, your chances of making into a BB improve but are still virtually impossible unless a) you or your family is well connected or b) you're in the top 10%tile and you network like crazy. Nobody worth mentioning comes to either schools to recruit.

 
zheff:
I am a student at SMG right now and I can confidently tell you that neither schools should be your top choice, especially if you want to go into finance. From what I hear, NE kids haven't the slightest chance of making it to a BB and have a coop program that places you in a firm like TJ Maxx. At BU, your chances of making into a BB improve but are still virtually impossible unless a) you or your family is well connected or b) you're in the top 10%tile and you network like crazy. Nobody worth mentioning comes to either schools to recruit.

i'm a recent NU grad and am currently working at a BB. initially, i did a co-op at a BB, which gave me the opportunity to get into the SA program, then received a FT offer during my stint. regardless of what non-target school you go to, networking will help you far more than any other single factor, IMHO. if you're not in an Ivy/semi-target, your chances are generally all the same assuming your grades, ECs, and job experience are all of top notch caliber.

before i graduated, ML/CS/GS/MS/UBS were all hiring 6 month co-ops, although most of the roles were back office. so, i wouldn't begin to assume that your chances for working at a BB improve if you're at BU, i think it's what you make of it.

 

I'm familiar with both schools. Zheff is correct it will be challenging at both schools but I know friends at NEU who have gotten banking internships through alumni at a couple BB's. You gotta be at the top of your class at both schools. I'd go with Northeastern.

KICKIN ASS AND TAKING NAMES
 
Best Response

First off - just to be clear, you're talking about the undergrad programs at both schools and not the MBA programs, right? Typically, business school references MBA programs, and not particularly undergrad programs.

Secondly, where exactly do you want to go?

Neither school in this recruiting environment have much of a chance. The number of positions and number of firms are down, and so are recruiting budgets. All major firms for their IBD and S&T programs are sticking to their core target schools and not reaching out to as many schools as before.

Thirdly, what is your profile like?

You will have a better chance at a non-target (where BU and Northwestern will fall) as a minority or as a female.

General tips - network like crazy - BU has a great network for a non-target. I haven't met anyone from Northeastern, but different banks recruit at different schools - extracurriculars are important - lead the finance club at both schools, compete in a sport AND participate in community involvement (yes these people exist and you're competing against them) - don't complain about grade deflation during interviews. there is likely someone they're considering at your school with a higher GPA. Pick courses that you're interested in and that you will do well - finally, PROOFREAD - "I was excepted to BU SMG" - instant DING if it was on your cover letter

 

I'm also at SMG; I'd say zheff has the right idea but if you go to either school for ugrad, you'll be in the same boat as any of the dozens of people asking for advice from a non-target. I say network a lot, but really you should be doing that no matter what school you attend.

 

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