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how important is a top uni?

as a current junior

+25 Karma if successful
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To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

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35 answers


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Josh’s Answer

Going to a prestigious university can definitely give you a boost in finding your dream job. However, it's not just about the school's name – there are many other aspects that contribute to your success in securing that perfect position after completing your undergraduate studies. Your GPA, the extracurricular activities you take part in, and the connections you make all play a significant role in your job hunt. So, concentrate on making the most of your current opportunities to increase your chances of launching your career at the company of your choice.

Josh recommends the following next steps:

Build a strong network and surround yourself with those who have accomplished what you hope to accomplish.
Focus on what energizes you.
Explore extracurricular opportunities at your current university.
Remember to take a second and enjoy the present.
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Katie’s Answer

As a current rising sophomore in college, I have learned that while attending a top uni can give a student benefits, ultimately attending a university that fits you best is the priority! Do not feel more inclined to attend a uni just because of their title! Make sure you really research their programs, specific to the major you would like to apply for, as well as the schools environment, the number of people, clubs, cost, and so much more.
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Luisanny’s Answer

Certainly, it can hold significance; however, the crucial factor is your network. The individuals you encounter and maintain contact with will serve as your greatest resource throughout your professional journey.

Consider schools with a robust career center, as they can provide assistance regardless of your chosen major and possess connections across various sectors.
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Bryant’s Answer

Attending a renowned university can definitely boost your career prospects. In the beginning stages of your professional journey, having a distinguished university name on your resume can increase your chances of securing internships and interviews with sought-after organizations. Moreover, many of these organizations actively compete to recruit students directly from top universities. Furthermore, throughout your career, the connections you've established during your university years can prove to be beneficial in various ways. It's highly likely that several of your classmates will hold influential positions in organizations worldwide. These relationships can be valuable in helping you access new job opportunities, forming partnerships, and achieving sales with the organizations they are associated with.

However, it's important to remember that attending a top university isn't the sole factor in determining career success. Possessing specialized skills and certifications, as well as the ability to network and build relationships with other professionals, can also contribute significantly to your professional growth.
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Josh’s Answer

Going to a top university can definitely benefit you in some areas, but it is more important to attend a university that is the best fit for you personally. There are other factors that contribute to your success at any university that can help you secure your dream career after completing your studies. One important area is your personal network. The people you meet and connect with throughout your undergraduate studies will serve as a great resource as you look for careers in the future. Focusing on making the most of your studies, participating in extracurricular activities and gaining work experience through internships are all great ways to position yourself for future success.
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Erin’s Answer

Hi! It's true that attending a top university can provide certain benefits, but it's not the sole factor in determining your success. There are numerous other routes that can lead you to achieve the same level of accomplishment as someone who goes to a top university.

By making the most of what your school offers, excelling in your classes, participating in extracurricular activities, and gaining work experience during the academic year or summer breaks, you'll set yourself up for success regardless of the reputation of your school.

Speaking from personal experience, I applied to a wide range of schools and ultimately chose a public state school due to the affordability and the scholarship I received. This decision opened up numerous opportunities for me, such as engaging in extracurricular activities and securing internships, which eventually led to my first job.
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Martin’s Answer

Hi! It really depends on what career you plan to pursue. Some industries care about top university more than others. On one hand, if you are targeting industries like investment banking and consulting then top business school will matter because firms in those industries mostly recruit from there. It does not mean you cannot get those jobs from non top university, but it would take much more networking.

On the other hand, if you are targeting other industries like technology, medical or other engineering, the actual acquired skills and credentials might matter more. For example, there are numerous instance of great programmers getting job at big tech even if they did not go to top schools.
Thank you comment icon E.g. Hedge Funds, Investment Banks, Private Equities mostly hire the 1% from the very top colleges and business graduate schools, being in one of those top universities just gives you an opportunity to be potentially interviewed. Even with that, you have to be in 99 percentile of your college to get a foot in the door Keyur Sadhani (he / him)
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Roshan’s Answer

Hi! I'm a rising senior at Penn State and currently interning with Deloitte. Attending a top university is absolutely not necessary to succeed. Go to a school, a big one, with lots of resources and join clubs that allow you to grow academically and personally. When you are in college it's on the person to do what with their time.
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Aadesh’s Answer

While going to a top university can certainly be beneficial, it is more important to find a university that best fits you! As long as you work hard and put in the effort the results will show for themselves. Networking, work experience, and a positive demeanor/work ethic can go a long way, regardless of which university you attend.
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Ryan’s Answer

There are many benefits to attending a top university; however, this doesn't mean that it is required to have a successful future. College is what you make of it, it is up to you to take advantage of the resources and opportunities available at whatever college you attend. You may find better resources, opportunities, or networks at more prestigious colleges, but going to these colleges will not guarantee your success. Wherever you end up, make sure to utilize everything available to you.
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Vincent’s Answer

When I attended my local state school, I discovered that the education system is truly what you make of it. Success can be achieved at any school. Sure, a top-tier school might offer more resources and an impressive network of world-class professors and fellow students. However, similar opportunities can be found at a regular school if you're willing to search for them. I had the chance to participate in undergraduate research throughout all four years at my state university, and I engaged with highly intelligent professors in classes and internships. If given the option, I might have chosen a more prestigious university for the connections alone. But, I still believe my state school was a good choice. Ultimately, it's up to each person to shape their own college experience.
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Eric’s Answer

Everything has pros and cons, and I will list the important points.

Pros:

1) More opportunities for high quality jobs due to ample campus recruiting events
2) More resources to help you to prepare for interviews due to well-established career centers and academic/career advisors
3) More networking opportunities with professionals if you just attend school sponsored or school invited events. Networking is the key to get your resume to the right people!

Cons:

1) Harder to excel in classes and attain high GPA. It is generally much harder to get a high GPA (3.7 or above) at any Top 20 university than it is at a Top 50 or Top 100 university.
2) More competition, as your classmates are generally smarter, more hardworking, or both than lower-ranked university students. This, however, could lead to extreme pressure, lack of sleep, and others.
3) Harder to attain scholarships due to the prestigious nature of top universities. If finance is a concern, I recommend a high-quality public school (UCLA, UC Berkley, etc.). You can also start at community college and take the route of transferring if things don't work out.

Conclusion:

1) The college that you go will not define you. For job placement, you will need to take the extra work (developing your professional network and enhancing your interview skills) if you go to a lower ranked university because you get less exposure to top quality recruiting events.
2) Do well in all your classes. Once you pass the resume screening round, your GPA of 3.9 at a lower ranked school is most likely more valuable than someone who has a GPA of 3.5 at a more prestige university. I would focus more on interview skills and crafting your stories after you get a solid GPA.

Best of luck!
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Aaima’s Answer

I would say it's not as important as you might think but if you can make it and afford it then it doesn't hurt at all. I am currently a senior at a public college not too highly ranked nationally but prestigious within it's peer colleges. I will say the most valuable thing I have received from this school is my network. Fortunately the culture at my school is that all students are driven but not competitive to the point where they won't help their peers. At a highly ranked school there is a competitive environment, if that is not what you want you may want to consider other options. That's not to say that a college name means nothing. My college is not unknown but it may not provide me the same recognition as a student from a T10 school. When you attend a highly ranked university you will find a strong connection in almost any career space that a lower ranked university graduate may not get.

Overall I would say take a step back and recognize what kind of college experience you want and what is attainable for you but I would strongly say that no matter what school you go to the your career options will not change.
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Justin’s Answer

Being accepted into a top university isn't the most crucial thing in the bigger picture. Sure, there are advantages and perks to attending a prestigious institution, but you can absolutely find a job and achieve success no matter what.

As others have mentioned, the relationships and connections you build are more valuable than attending a top university. The great thing about forming connections is that you can do it practically anywhere, and it doesn't cost a thing! You can meet people at industry-specific gatherings, conferences, on LinkedIn, in online forums, or even at your local Starbucks! All you need to do is put yourself out there and be open to making new connections!
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Alex’s Answer

Based on my experience, a school's name shouldn’t be the 'most' important factor in your college decision. I believe the most important factors in a college decision are: (1) Value (2) Ability to Grow (3) Major/Minor Programs. Some top universities are great at a very specific thing/set of things. Likewise, there are other institutions that may be better rated at the areas you’re interested in. Take the time to identify what interests you now, or what may interest you in the future.

If you get an equally great education at a lesser-known and less-expensive institution, you’re effectively enjoying a better value on your investment (you're investing in yourself!). Finally, find somewhere that you believe you can grow. Growth is multi-faceted. Personal & professional growth, and growing your network are all immensely important. You're bound to grow - so find somewhere that you can grow the most.
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Shahzad’s Answer

Hello,

Every student wonders about this question while in college. Although having an edge is helpful, it's not the only crucial factor in obtaining a job or building a successful career. In my view, the value of your network is essential. Make an effort to create connections during college, particularly with your senior class. Participate in social clubs and various organizations to expand your network.
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Riya’s Answer

Hi! While it may seem like a big-name college is the most important thing, it is definitely not! It can give you an advantage, but there are so many other things that will help you attract recruiters. Try to join a few extracurriculars that you are passionate about, taking leadership roles in them. Use the resources provided by your school to grow and learn your skills better. Ultimately, the school name doesn't determine your internship, your level of work and dedication does!
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Anna’s Answer

There are certainly benefits to going to a top school (name recognition when applying to jobs, good school resources, strong career placement programs, plus strong education/professors). However, I definitely wouldn't say it is necessary. I went to a small, not very prestigious school, but I did well in school, had a lot of leadership opportunities, was a student-athlete, and was very active in networking. I came out with a great college experience and a great job.
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Frank’s Answer

Hello!

The name of a prestigious university can help but it is ultimately what you choose to learn and how you use that moving forward. The one thing that I would stress if I were to go through the experience again would be to network, network, network! Get to know your professors, ask if they can introduce you to folks in areas that interest you and go from there. Participate in volunteer events or extra circular activities and get to know people as this is how you can grow and expand.

I hope this helps!

Thanks,

Frank
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Hadley’s Answer

I'm thrilled to see this question appear! As someone in the recruitment field, it's a common inquiry from friends and family. In my 5 years of recruiting, I've never based a hiring decision on the school a candidate attended. For technical, legal, scientific, or medical fields, it might be different, but for general degrees, it's usually not the main factor in hiring decisions. When recruiting, I focus on ensuring the candidate has the necessary degree level for the position, rather than the university they attended. My recruitment expertise lies in psychology, organizational development, and human resources roles, and in these areas, I prioritize candidates' experiences over their educational institutions.
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Cory’s Answer

When exploring which college to attend, there are numerous aspects to consider beyond the institution's reputation. Start by examining the specific programs available at each school, focusing on your intended major and what each college can provide in that area. Next, think about which university might offer more scholarships or grants, as this can help reduce your financial burden and make your transition into the job market easier. Additionally, consider the school's placement programs and the types of jobs their graduates have secured in previous years.
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Sean’s Answer

Great question! Attending a top university certainly has its benefits, but it's not the sole determining factor for success. What matters most is your dedication, motivation, and effort you put into your education and career development.
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Craig’s Answer

In my view, it is not critical to go to a top university. Some professions value this more than others though, so I would suggest you do some research about university choice for the career path you are pursuing. What is important about going to a university is developing your critical thinking skills, general knowledge of your career subject matter, developing or honing your work ethic, and achieving meaningful goals such as achieving a college degree. As a hiring manager, I am primarily looking for people who take their job seriously, work hard, have a sound knowledge base, and can work to achieve larger objectives over time. You can obtain these skills in any university by applying yourself.
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Atul’s Answer

Choosing a top university is crucial for your first job, but after that, your achievements matter most. My son, who attended a state university, competed against a Harvard graduate for a position and got the job.

If you think you have what it takes to attend a top university, consider the following:

- Have you taken and succeeded in AP courses?
- Have you pushed yourself by taking advanced courses?
- Do you have near-perfect SAT or ACT scores?
- Remember, essays matter – how strong is your English vocabulary?

MIT doesn't assign grades during the first year for a reason. Not everyone is meant to be there. When students who thought they could handle the pressure couldn't, suicide rates increased. That's why MIT stopped giving grades in the freshman year. I learned this when I visited the school with my son.
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Kaushik’s Answer

Hello!

Attending a prestigious university certainly has its perks, but it's not the be-all and end-all of your college journey and life after graduation. What truly counts is how you utilize your time at whichever university you choose. Focus on maintaining a strong GPA, engaging in extracurricular activities, and gaining valuable work experience during your college years. Make the most of your time and don't forget to have fun while you're at it!

Additionally, keep in mind that a university's overall ranking doesn't necessarily mean it's the perfect fit for you. Instead, consider researching specific programs and their rankings at various universities. For instance, if you're passionate about computer science, a school like NJIT might be a better choice.

Best of luck in your search, and may you find the ideal university that suits your needs!

Kaushik recommends the following next steps:

Research specific programs within universities
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Agustin A.’s Answer

I believe a top university can boost your resume but definitely is not the only factor. Network, attitude, and experience are way more differential, from my experience. I would start with some public speaking courses which you can find easily on LinkedIn learning, udemy, or even YouTube. My second advice, would be to truly focus on networking use all tools available. LinkedIn is great, twitter as well.
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Renato’s Answer

A "Top" University can greatly benefit you through the extensive networking opportunities offered by its alumni. However, this doesn't imply that you can't land those jobs if you didn't attend a top university. Factors like networking, possessing the necessary skills, and numerous other elements play a significant role.
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Adaleigh’s Answer

Undoubtedly, attending highly-ranked universities can be advantageous in your job search. However, the key lies in finding the university that best suits your needs. Visiting universities in person can be incredibly beneficial, as it allows you to experience the school's atmosphere, explore the programs available, discover employment prospects, learn about collaborations with potential employers, meet the professors and advisors you'd be working with, and get a feel for the city where the campus is situated. Keep in mind that there are countless factors to consider when choosing the ideal school for your future success.
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Sam’s Answer

Hi! While attending a top university may give you a leg up on others through connections and additional programs that are available to students, what is more important are the skills you learn at college and experiences you are involved with. As a current junior, I would focus on looking at colleges that have solid programs that will prepare you for a field you are interested in or a more general liberal arts college if you do not know exactly what field you want to go into. I would say again, overall the skills you learn at college, and relationships you develop will be more useful than just a name. Good luck throughout your process!
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Nika’s Answer

I think it ultimately depends on the career that you want. However, does a top uni make or break your future? Not at all!

I personally attended a state college in my city and I can confidently say that I am at a company I never even thought would be possible. I always assumed larger, well-known companies would select students from top universities to be hired. However, in a world with so many people, there are people best suited for a job all over the place. I work with people from all different educational backgrounds, yet we are all doing the same thing. I don't think the label on your degree will determine your work ethic, skills, and determination. Those are all things that are left up to you.

So, stay motivated, work hard, and create the future you want for yourself without letting a university define you!
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Deeksha’s Answer

Attending a top university can provide you with an excellent network of like-minded individuals who can support your growth and help you discover new ways to succeed in life. However, simply being part of a prestigious institution isn't enough! It's crucial to challenge yourself and learn new skills while you're there. Once you've enrolled in a great university, consider these next steps:

1. Surround yourself with the right group of people.
2. Determine your areas of interest.
3. Focus on your own growth and avoid comparing yourself to others.
4. Create lasting friendships and cherish memorable moments.
5. Set realistic goals for the future, excel in the present, and maintain a happy outlook.
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Ava’s Answer

If you are looking at a university in order to create a large professional network, I recommend a university with a highly active alumni association.
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Frances’s Answer

Going to a top uni may give you a boost initially but it certainly isn't necessary. In my career, I have worked with folks from top unis, from smaller less prestigious schools, and those who went to uni later in their life. Success doesn't end at which university you go to - it is what you make out of your experiences. Networking is vitally important and learning as much as you can in each stage of your life will go a long way.
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Manuel’s Answer

Hello Roshan,

Always set your sights high when it comes to attending a top-notch university. Treat your final two years in school with importance, since grades play a significant role. Nonetheless, I urge you to choose a university that aligns with your expectations and feels like the perfect match. Some may have higher rankings than others, but the key is to find a school that caters to your needs. Prestigious universities provide an impressive alumni network and the chance to secure employment with leading companies. However, remember that it's up to you to seize these opportunities. No matter where your educational journey takes you, embrace the experience and make the most of it.
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Elizabeth’s Answer

Attending a prestigious university can certainly boost your resume, but it's not the only key to success in finding a great career! Take it from me - I didn't get into UMD and ended up at Towson University. Instead of trying to transfer after just one semester, I chose to stay and make the most of my experience. Not only did I excel in my classes, but I also engaged in extracurricular activities and built a strong network, which opened up numerous opportunities for me after college and led to a successful first job.

Remember, it's essential to choose a school that caters to YOUR needs from a well-rounded perspective, considering factors such as academic programs, culture, athletics, student population, environment, and more.
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