COMPARE Opinions on Top Programs: LSE, CMU, Cornell, Princeton, NYU, USC

[Puttable]

I applied to LSE, Cornell, CMU, Princeton, NYU and USC for Fall 2009 admission. I was admitted into the former three and am still awaiting responses from the latter three.

I was wondering if anyone out there could tell me what they honestly think of these programs? How is the job market for people who graduated from Cornell/CMU this past December? LSE last May?

CMU gave me $24000 (full time in NY) and Cornell $5000. I am still awaiting word of a $20000 scholarship I was invited to apply for at Cornell.

Just for convenience, say I got admitted into all six programs. What would you guys suggest I do to feel confident I make the right decision? I was surprised to hear people from School A putting down NYU so much. Is there something I am missing? I think all of these programs are highly coveted and do not think any of them are particularly weak.

Any thoughts/insights would be most appreciated!

 

[doug reich]

Please read and search the forums; opinions on all top programs are found around here.

 

[bigbadwolf]

I was wondering if anyone out there could tell me what they honestly think of these programs? How is the job market for people who graduated from Cornell/CMU this past December? LSE last May?

Many of these programs are not releasing information on how their alumni are faring or how many people they're placing in internships. Andy has sent questionnaires to these places (and others). If memory serves, I think only Princeton replied.

If, on the other hand, you want hearsay and anecdotal evidence, you must agree this provides a fragile and unreliable basis for a rational decision. For what little it's worth, I'd probably choose CMU from the list you've provided. It's probably the oldest program around; it has a reputation in the market; and its faculty are seasoned (like Steven Shreve). More than this I cannot say. Caveat Emptor.

 

[buddyforall]

Princeton is by far the best, followed by CMU. Rest can be a risky bet or a decent choice depending on your background.BTW why didn't you apply to Berkeley MFE.

 

[Uncle Max]

This post was made nine months ago. I don't think OP is still here. What is the point of bringing this old post back?

 

[Titania]

Hi, I am applying for fall 2010.
Which one did you choose then?

Many thanks, and BTW I really wish I could get one of them.

 

[GoIllini]

This post was made nine months ago. I don't think OP is still here. What is the point of bringing this old post back?

Because somebody is probably a student at or graduate of Princeton.

Actually, I think Illinois clearly has the best financial engineering program. :D

 

[wildcolor]

Don't know where are you from and not really sure about the quality of their programs.

But if you come to London as an oversea student, you'd be really surprised by the expensive tuition fees of LSE.

But, they are good universities. And if I could get money from Cornell or CMU, their offers would be second to none for me.