Considering Fordham for Wall Street?
I’m seriously weighing Fordham for my finance undergraduate degree as I’m aiming for a career in investment banking. I’ve heard that it has a growing reputation on Wall Street. My second option is Indiana Kelley; however, I’m a bit uncertain about it. Even though it ranks in the top 20 for business schools, gaining entry into investment banking or other specialized clubs there is incredibly challenging. If you don’t get into those elite groups, Fordham or another semi-target school might actually offer better opportunities.
What are your thoughts on Fordham’s Gabelli School? Would it be a stronger choice for breaking into investment banking compared to Kelley, especially if I don’t secure a spot in the IBW or similar clubs?
One response
Fordham’s Gabelli School of Business has indeed been gaining traction on Wall Street, especially in recent years. Its location in New York City offers significant advantages, providing students with access to numerous networking opportunities, internships, and events directly related to finance and investment banking. Many firms recruit actively from Fordham, and the school has strong relationships with various banks and financial institutions.
On the other hand, Indiana Kelley is also a solid business school with a great reputation, particularly in finance, but you’re right that breaking into highly competitive clubs like the Investment Banking Workshop (IBW) can be challenging. It’s a top business school, but the recruitment pipeline for investment banking can be somewhat less direct than at Fordham, which benefits from its metropolitan location.
If you’re worried about not getting into an IBW or a similar club, Fordham might offer you a better chance to connect with investment banking professionals and secure internships as a result of its NYC connections. Many students at Gabelli have successfully landed positions in investment banking without being part of formal clubs, thanks to the school’s strong career services and alumni network.
Ultimately, if your goal is to enter investment banking, Fordham might provide you with more immediate opportunities right out of the gate, particularly if your networking strategies and internships are robust. But also consider the overall fit and your preferences for campus culture, lifestyle, and other academic opportunities. It can be beneficial to visit both campuses, if possible, and see where you feel you would thrive the most. Good luck!