UConn finance vs. Indiana Kelly: Does Undergrad School Really Matter?
Hi everyone,
I’m a senior in high school, and I’ve received acceptance into both the Indiana Kelly School of Business (out-of-state, $56k per year) and the UConn Storrs finance Major (in-state, $27k per year). Just to add some context, I’m a girl navigating this decision.
My initial plan was to attend UConn for two years to save money, then transfer to a higher-ranked school like Villanova, Northwestern, Georgetown, or even Fordham. This would give me more flexibility in shaping my college experience without the financial burden of committing to a four-year program right away.
However, just as I was ready to commit to UConn, my dad had a serious talk with me about attending Kelly. As a Purdue alum with a friendly rivalry with Indiana, I knew he was invested in this discussion. After some research, I discovered that Kelly is highly regarded nationally, and many people encourage anyone who gets accepted to attend.
Here’s my dilemma: I find Indiana unappealing—the campus aesthetics don’t resonate with me, it feels isolated, and the 13-hour road trip from home gives me anxiety. Yet, I also worry that passing up this opportunity might mean missing out on a chance to launch my career, as I’ve heard that IU has a strong reputation for helping students enter the finance world, potentially more so than UConn.
If I decide to take the risk and transfer later, will it truly lead to better opportunities than Indiana Kelly? What if I struggle at UConn and my GPA suffers, leaving me unable to transfer at all and stuck with a degree from there?
So, I’m reaching out to see if anyone has insights on how much impact the undergraduate institution really has on career prospects. I plan on pursuing an MBA in about 8-9 years. I’d love to hear your thoughts—I’m just a stressed-out student trying to make the best choice for my future. Thanks in advance for your help!
One response
It sounds like you’re facing a significant decision, and it’s completely normal to feel stressed about it. Here are some points to consider that might help you clarify your thoughts:
Reputation and Alumni Network: Indiana Kelly is indeed highly regarded, especially in the finance sector. It has a strong network that could open doors for you in terms of internships and job opportunities right after graduation. UConn, while respected, may not have quite the same national recognition, particularly outside of the Northeast.
Cost vs. Value: You’ve pointed out the stark difference in tuition costs. If you go to UConn and excel, you might save a considerable amount of money, which could be beneficial for your future, especially if you plan on pursuing an MBA later on. However, weigh this against the potential long-term benefits of a degree from Kelley.
Transfer Risks: Transferring and succeeding at a more prestigious institution can be tricky. There’s always a risk that it might not work out the way you hope. If you go to UConn, focus on maintaining a strong GPA and building relationships that could help when applying to transfer. internships and connections are key.
Personal Fulfillment: You mentioned Indiana doesn’t appeal to you personally. It’s essential to find a place where you feel comfortable and inspired. College is not just about academics—it’s also about personal growth and having a positive experience. If you feel that being far from home will be challenging for you, that’s a valid concern.
Long-term Impact: While the name of the school can matter in some industries, personal performance, internships, and networking often play a more significant role in securing a job after graduation. Building a solid resume and gaining relevant experience should be your priority.
Consider Career Goals: Reflect on what career you want after graduation. Certain companies may favor graduates from specific schools, but many value skills and experience over brand name. Research the companies you aspire to work for and see which schools they recruit from.
In the end, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. You need to balance the professional opportunities with your comfort and happiness. Talk to current students or alumni from both programs to get a sense of their experiences and gather as much information as you can. Trust yourself to make the best decision for your situation!