Columbia MSOR vs Cornell MFE vs Chicago MSMF

[Emhuang]

I've been admitted to all above programs, and the deadline for responding is rapidly approaching. I would like to get some advice on which program to attend.

My Background: Undergraduate in Finance and Math in the U.S, two finance internships in US large corporates, no full time experience. I actually don't desire a job in very quantitative roles (i.e. programming or research), my dream job is Investment Banking. Since I missed out my chances in undergrad, I'm going to graduate school to try again.

My Concerns:

1. Columbia is a great school, but I've heard that people don't take the MSOR program seriously. There are more than 200 students in that program, and they struggle to find a job. However, their reported placement stats showed ~10% of students (who responded) work in IB.
2. MFE in Cornell has a great reputation; however, the first year going to be in Ithaca which is not a very desirable location. The program in Cornell is also very quantitative, I'm afraid not be able to follow.
3. I don't know much about the program in Chicago. Any information on classes and placements?

Thank you very much for reading through the long post. I appreciate any advice that you may have.

 

[tiger]

I would choose Columbia or UChicago. Location is very important

 

[IntoDarkness]

its cornell hands down like no brainer...

 

[Emhuang]

its cornell hands down like no brainer...

Do you have any reason for it?

 

[MelD]

I would personnally choose Columbia.
Despite what some people may say, I doubt many recruiters know the subtle differences between the MSFE and MSOR programs at Columbia.

I wouldn't want to spend a year in Ithaca even if I was paid for it, but that's just me.

As for Chicago there seem to have been recent improvements to the program, and I think it is quite good. But the lack of information regarding placement statistics would make me go for Columbia MSOR. Both are good choices anyway.

 

[IntoDarkness]

ur obj is to find an entry level job, cornell has the best placement, way better than the rest, no brainer