Need advice: Choosing between top MBA programs with full scholarships

Hey everyone! I’m struggling to pick between three amazing MBA programs that all offered me full funding. Each school has different strengths and I’m getting more confused the more I think about it.

My background:

  • Female from an underrepresented group
  • Want to do management consulting after graduation (targeting top firms)
  • Eventually hope to start my own business or get into impact investing

What I’m weighing:

Program A (Virginia): Love their hands-on teaching style and tight community feel. The campus is gorgeous and living costs are reasonable. My concern is whether they have enough startup resources and if the alumni network will help with entrepreneurship goals later.

Program B (NYC): Great location for internships and networking. Tons of course options and entrepreneurship programs. But the city is super expensive even with scholarship money, and the campus felt kind of bleak when I visited.

Program C (Upstate NY): Has a special leadership scholarship program. Seems like a good middle ground with a decent campus, strong brand name, and diverse career paths. Haven’t visited yet but wondering if it solves some issues with the other two.

I’m leaning toward Program A after visiting, but worried about missing opportunities that only come with being in a major city. Also concerned about fitting in since I’m less social than typical MBA students.

Anyone have thoughts on what factors I should prioritize? Would really appreciate advice from people who’ve been through similar decisions.

You’re overthinking this. Three full rides? Most people would kill for one. If Virginia felt right when you visited, trust that instinct - campus visits tell you more than any ranking will.

NYC’s overrated. Half those “networking opportunities” are overpriced drinks with people who won’t remember you anyway. Don’t sweat the social stuff either - most MBA students are just introverts faking it.

That video covers consulting-focused programs if you want another take on what actually gets you into top firms.

Amazing problem to have! All three schools are solid for consulting recruiting, so go with your gut on Virginia. That tight-knit community will be your lifelong network when you’re ready to jump into entrepreneurship.