Scholarship, the STEM designation, getting 2 degrees, and the reputation of the University and its alumni network.
Course Curriculum :
The quality of academics is world-class, with dedicated and distinguished professors. The curriculum is also regularly updated to stay up to date with the latest trends. Special mention goes to the finance and analytics curriculum. There are opportunities to work on research projects with professors and to get involved with the University start-up incubation center for experiential learning. Also this year we will have the option of doing a mod in Chicago, NY, Silicon Valley, or Chile which will provide tremendous exposure. The University also provides the opportunity for international immersion as well as working on projects with corporates. Finally, Business on the Frontlines is a signature of the program where one gets to visit and work with war-torn and impoverished communities in several countries
Exams :
My Scores: GMAT Q49, V38 Total 710, IELTS 8.5. Class Average GMAT:660-670. English proficiency test is not required for most Indians provided we can show we took college courses in English previously. Also, higher GMAT helps get better scholarships.
Placement :
Job opportunities for international students are currently limited in the US. The job search is tough and has to be undertaken individually. The placement team at the college is not great but by individual search, most students end up with good jobs. The University is very well regarded in both academia and industry and that helps students in their applications. STEM degree is a must for international students in the US because it helps greatly in their job search. Networking is a crucial element and tapping into the Alumni network helps immensely in the job search. Students from the program go on to PhD programs as well and in this, the recommendations of professors help immensely.
Internship :
I will be interning in Product Management at Dexcom, a medical device company. A stipend is $1120 per week for 10-16 weeks. I looked for jobs on the college job board, by networking with alumni, and on the University job portal. The key resource I used was Linkedin. I checked postings on Linkedin regularly and applied to positions early. I was fortunate to interview a lot of companies using this strategy.
Events :
The campus is spread over 1300 acres and is stunningly beautiful attracting a large number of tourists annually. The infrastructure, facilities, and amenities are almost unmatched. The University emphasizes research and there are opportunities to get involved. There are numerous activities such as movies and dinners, theatre performances, games, and workshops organized almost daily by the various clubs and student bodies within the University. Every kind of sport facility is present on campus and the library has a huge collection of resources. There is an art museum on campus as well. Food options are a bit limited and on the pricier side, however. Free wifi is available on campus as well as buses to travel within and out of campus.
Fees :
$63,000 per year.
Scholarship :
Merit-based fellowship of $45,000/year.
Faculty :
The faculty are experts in their fields and immersed in research. I wanted to especially highlight the faculty's strength in the domains of Finance, Analytics, and Organizational Behavior. The faculty are very supportive and go out of their way to help students. There are opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research projects or to work under them as Tas. Their recommendations also go a long way in future academics as well as job searches.
Hostel :
Undergraduate students reside in residential dorms. Being a graduate student, I stay in graduate residences. The rent is $670. I share my apartment with my roommate. I have a separate room, however, the kitchen, common area, and restroom are shared. The apartment is medium-sized. I chose this option because it is closest to class. Cheaper living options are available on the outskirts of campus.
