Hi Nagano,

Congratulations on your acceptance into such great programs! You do have a difficult decision to make, but the good news is that you're in a great position to become informed and make the right decision.

Once admitted to a program you will find adcom's are usually quite willing to help you as you make your decision. They can put you in touch with professors, representatives in the career placement office, and alumni all in the effort to help you make an informed decision. My advice for you is to seek out these connections and learn as much as you can about the program, opportunities after graduation (using career placement statistics & a list of top employers) as well as your fit with the school. These will all help you make the best choice for your own individual needs.

Best,

Stacey

Thanks for your time Stacey

I have basically whittled the decision down to IESE and Booth and have the following observations, do you think that they are fair?

1. They are both very well regarded MBA programs. Chicago probably has the edge in this regard, but as I cannot see myself working in the USA long Term this advantage is somewhat diminished. Although Booth is probably slightly better known in Australasia and Asia
2. IESE is held in very high regard in both Europe and in Latin America (The ability to be fluent in Spanish by the end is also a plus).
3. Life style-hands down to Barcelona
4. Academic Quality - From what I can tell Booth has a superior faculty
5. IESE has a very diverse student body (65 odd countries and only 15-20% Spanish) and smaller class size (290 ppl) making it more intimate. Chicago is 70% American and a class size of about 1000.
6. $40,000 scholarship @ Chicago isn't a game changer-but it is nice to have and gives me a better financial buffer (Still have a decent chance of landing a scholarship for IESE)
7. IESE is more focused on the People approach whereas Chicago on quantitative approach. IESE better for general management - Chicago better for finance.
8. IESE has a more developed "Ethical management approach"

Nagano

Hi again,

Yes, I think those are very fair observations that reflect both fact and your personal interest/opinion. It sounds to me like you are leaning toward IESE. Will you have an opportunity to visit the programs or attend their admitted students/welcome weekends? This may help you make your final decision.

Regards,

Stacey