Perry
When choosing colleges, should ranking be valued over opportunities and experiences.
I am currently in the process of applying to colleges, and will probably be studying business. Within business school rankings, RI am seriously considering two schools. However, business, in my opinion, is a very experience-based subject. I believe that despite your education quality and level, your ability to prosper in the business world depends on how you deal with situations and people. With that being said, internships and job opportunities then, would be the key to succeeding in the business world. My question is: Let's say i was debating between the two schools listed above. One of them, although having a lower overall "ranking" than the other, has a close proximity to NYC, the tri-state area, etc. filled with a plethora of opportunities and connections that can enhance one's learning experiences. On the other hand, the other school has a higher ranking, but does not have as many opportunities for such first hand experiences and has slightly less of a metropolitan/ business environment. Given this case, what would be the school better to attend? should ranking be valued over opportunities and experiences? What would be more valued on a resume? What would have more personal growth? #college #business #higher-education
4 answers
Aimee Smith, M.Ed.
Aimee’s Answer
Congratulations on starting the process for this exciting next step!
In my opinion, you could go either route as long as you know how to leverage the experience. If you go to the lower ranking school that is closer in proximity to NYC, you will need to be proactive and get as many internships (paid and non-paid) as possible. To many employers, if a candidate already has hands on experience straight out of college, they are much more attractive than someone who does not, even if they come from a higher ranking school. You may also be able to get a job with one of the companies you intern with, or use those experiences to gain strong references.
If you go to the school with the better ranking, but fewer hands on experiences, it will be important to tap into the alumni network early, and work with career services to gain summer internships. So that way, even if you are not able to have hands on experience during the school year, you can dedicate your summers to working in the business environment.
In my experience, no matter where you go, it is important to gain a full understanding of the recourses your college provides you, and use them to your advantage. Many students graduate college without ever really knowing what their college had to offer them outside the classroom. If you come in the door with your eyes and ears open, looking for opportunity, you will already have a leg up on everyone else.
Good luck!
Aimee
Ganaraj Kamath
Ganaraj’s Answer
A good college is always a safe bet when it comes to business schools. Of course proximity to business centers is a big thing to be considered but nothing can compensate good solid foundation at a college level to give you the basics of business. A lot of things can then be learnt on the job /during internship once you have a solid base at the college level.
Troy Golba
Troy’s Answer
Good day,
Fine choice to get a business degree it has so much value and is worth your time. Good business schools will have many employers that recruit there and will be available for internships and meeting with you. The location isn't as important as the reputation and what companies go there for recruiting. It sounds like you have lots of great choices and with that only you can decide what will be more fitting for you. I'm sure you'll figure out which one has great opportunities and a climate where you can thrive. As for experience I graduated from Central Michigan University with a business degree and don't regret it for a second it was an incredible experience. Keep in mind that this was not the bigger universities nor was near a big metro, however it comes down to the preference as I was lucky enough to have many recruiters including Pfizer, Wells Fargo, and Dow contact me but I personally had that vision of going west and did just that. Very happy I did and please feel free to contact me with any questions, my best on your journey!!
Dear Mr. Golba,
Thank you for the advice, I really appreciate it. I see your point of how companies will come to the university for recruitment, so the business/metro environment is not really as necessary. And the ranking of the school definitely plays more of an overall role as compared to the location. Thanks for the personal experience, will definitely be taking that into account as I make my final decisions!
Perry
Jessica Morales
Jessica’s Answer
I am so excited for you to embark on this new adventure! I only have my Associate of Arts degree and have managed to climb up in the business world purely off experience and personality. I was given a shot because they liked who I was and from there I busted my butt to climb the ladder and venture farther into the business world.
I strongly believe that the ranking of the school does not matter nearly as much as the time, effort, and hard work you put in along with those experiences. Also, it is a better learning experience to go out in the world and learn hands on. It is also great for networking!
There are going to be pros and cons of attending either school. I suggest making a list and focusing on what you value and what you want to accomplish by the end of your four (or more) years.
Wishing you all the best.