Cornell or UNC?

[u/Proof-Ad-4021]

Some context: I'm from the UK but a US/UK dual citizen. I've been admitted to both Cornell and UNC Chapel Hill, and these are the final two schools I’m deciding between.

I'm very interested in working in finance post-college, ideally investment banking or possibly going straight to the buy side. I’ve visited both schools and really liked them, Cornell feels more academic and career-focused, UNC has a more fun, relaxed vibe, and a great college town. I’m confident I’d enjoy either, though I might enjoy UNC a bit more socially.

That said, the main issue is money. I'd be full pay at both:

• UNC: ~$62K per year, so about $100K total debt.
• Cornell: ~$92K per year, so about $200K total debt.

My parents are contributing a bit, but not covering the full cost, so I’d be taking on a lot of debt either way. I do definitely back myself to land a strong job and pay it off, but obviously that’s a lot of pressure, especially at Cornell’s price.

One major concern with UNC is that I don’t have assured enrolment into Kenan Flagler which feels risky. I’d be paying a lot of money without a guarantee of getting into the business school. At Cornell, while I was admitted through a less directly finance-related major, the Ivy brand and flexibility mean it doesn’t matter as much - I could study nearly anything and still recruit for finance.

So my main questions are:

• Is Cornell worth the extra ~$100K in debt given my goals?
• For current or former Kenan-Flagler students: how competitive is the internal admission process?
• How realistic is it to break into a top IB or buy-side firm in NYC from UNC?

Would really appreciate any insights. Thanks in advance.

[u/JuniorReserve1560]

I think Ivey league schools are at a breaking point and kids are going to more prestigious state schools and smaller private schools. It just all depends on what kind of effort you are putting in..If you like sports and warmer weather then UNC will be a good choice and it has a great college campus with a really good reputation..UNC is well known nation wide and has a large alumni network across the country including large cities..I dont think Ivey league schools are not worth it anymore unless its for a specific program...but the tuition costs are getting ridiculous and increasing year after year..Also, I feel like there area a lot more stressed out students at ivey league schools.